Court of Appeal Unanimously Overturns Unconstitutional Ruling in Norway

March 27, 2025 – Oslo, Norway

The Borgarting Court of Appeal has made a significant ruling in favor of Jehovah's Witnesses in Norway, reversing a previous judgment by the Oslo District Court. On March 14, 2025, the appellate court unanimously decided to reinstate the legal registration of Jehovah's Witnesses, which the County Governor of Oslo and Viken had revoked in 2022. This decision also includes awarding 8,500,000 kroner (approximately $806,833 USD) to cover legal expenses incurred during both the initial trial and the appeal.

The county governor's decision had forced Jehovah's Witnesses to forfeit eligibility for state subsidies that over 700 recognized religious communities in Norway receive. The state justified its action by claiming that the religious group needed to change its practice regarding the disassociation of unrepentant wrongdoers from their congregations.

In March 2024, the Oslo District Court upheld the county government's ruling. However, Jehovah's Witnesses chose to appeal this decision, leading to the recent ruling by the Borgarting Court of Appeal. The appellate court heard arguments from a panel of three judges who closely examined the religious practices and teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses.

In its ruling, the court contested the state's assertions, concluding that the practice of limiting contact with unrepentant members does not infringe upon individuals' rights and does not constitute psychological violence, particularly in cases involving baptized minors. The court affirmed that Jehovah's Witnesses were vindicated, stating that the actions taken by the state to deny grants and registration were invalid.

In response to the ruling, representatives of Jehovah's Witnesses expressed gratitude for the decision, attributing their success to divine support. A statement shared by the group included a reference to Psalm 40:4, emphasizing their appreciation.

The state has the option to appeal the ruling to Norway's Supreme Court, which may lead to further legal developments in this case.

This decision marks a pivotal moment for Jehovah's Witnesses in Norway as they regain their legal standing and continue their religious practices throughout the country.