– There are many of us who are upset that people can be treated so indecently in Norway

This is a reader post. Opinions in the text are the responsibility of the writer.

In recent weeks, both the national media and politicians in the Storting have become involved in the situation of people from Ethiopia who have illegal residence in Norway. One of these has lived in Røros since 2002, i.e. 22 years.

He came here after several years alone as a child refugee under very tough conditions in Africa. He has never tried to hide from the Norwegian authorities, but as the authorities have nowhere to send him, he has mostly been left alone in Røros.

He also has no opportunity to travel legally anywhere, as he does not have a passport. He has no rights and is by definition a criminal in that he stays in Norway, even though the Norwegian authorities know that he has no alternative.

Over 22 years, Nagga Hailemichael has made many friends in the local community. He speaks Norwegian and can be a resource in many workplaces. He is kind, helpful and just wants to live a normal life.

Many of us are upset that people can be treated so indecently in Norway.

The situation came to a head on Sunday 10 March when Norwegian police, in a raid to arrest Ethiopians, broke into Nagga’s home. The case has received national attention. Gunnar Stavrum in Nettavisen has written a reader’s article about the case, which is published on the website of the Labor Court. Beyond this, there is no editorial mention in the local newspaper.

When the local press does not focus on the indecent and immoral treatment that a person is exposed to in our local community, we feel the need to speak out. As a local community, we must take responsibility and stand up for those who need help and support. With this, we want to show that we support Nagga in his fight for a decent life in Røros.

Ola Høsøien
Erland Sjøvold
Frode Sjøvold
Ole Jørgen Kjellmark
Even Erlien
Erik Haagensen
Anne-Mari Haagensen
Monika Saether Goodwine