Debate post This is a debate entry, written by an external contributor. The post expresses the writer’s views.
Liberation and Veterans Day on 8 May is a day to honor and remember all those who have made a military effort for Norway, from the resistance struggle during the Second World War to today’s international operations and international efforts. The day is also for reflection on what war participation costs our society, the individual soldier and the surrounding families.
Some have come out of their service abroad strengthened, but several also came home with damage to body and mind. War is brutal, and risky, something research is clear about. Living conditions surveys, surveys of Afghanistan veterans and veteran families show that as many as over 1 in 10 face challenges after service, and that the families of the veterans, the heroes at home, can face just as great challenges as those who serve abroad.
The war in Ukraine clearly shows that veteran care is important for the soldiers on the front line. Taking care of the individual soldier can be of great importance for the soldiers’ morale, and for the country’s ability to defend itself in the event of a war. If the individual knows that they will be taken care of should something happen, and civil society recognizes the resource veterans represent, it will undoubtedly strengthen the ability to defend and the will to defend.
The authorities have a special moral responsibility to look after those who have been harmed on behalf of Norway. It will also have transfer value to other similar social groups. Veterans can also become a “spearhead” in the work to raise skills for these groups.
The veterans association SIOPS – Injured in international operations works both to prevent injuries, that our injured foreign veterans receive the follow-up they are entitled to, and that it becomes easier for the veterans to continue their active service in the Armed Forces.
Something has improved since the first overseas veterans came home from service, but there is still much to be done. This year, a new action plan for the veterans was launched by the Støre government, where SIOPS received several important breakthroughs, including a revision of the Norwegian Armed Forces’ follow-up of the veterans.
We still need increased competence in the civilian healthcare system about veterans, and better coordination between the Norwegian Armed Forces’ healthcare services and civilian actors. The primary health service must be included to a greater extent in veterans’ research, and veterans’ research must be prioritized in the long-term plan for research and higher education. We are also working for a greater degree of centralization of veteran expertise in the healthcare system.
The armed forces and civil society must make use of the expertise that Norwegian veterans from international operations have built up. It remains challenging for injured veterans to continue their active military service. It is a paradox that we will invest heavily in the Armed Forces in the future, while there is still so much left in the veteran field to look after the soldiers with injuries. Again happy birthday, your efforts will never be forgotten.
