Norway is considering the possibility of erecting a fence along part or all of its 198-kilometer border with Russia, as stated by Justice Minister Emilie Enger Mehl. This consideration has been influenced by a similar initiative in Finland, where a fence is being constructed along the Finnish-Russian land border to enhance security measures. The Norwegian government is exploring multiple options to bolster security in the Arctic north, such as implementing fencing, increasing border staff, and enhancing surveillance capabilities with advanced technology like sensors.
Currently, the Storskog border station serves as the sole official crossing point from Russia into Norway and has experienced minimal illegal border crossing attempts in recent years. However, in response to any potential deterioration in the security situation in the sensitive Arctic region, Norway is prepared to swiftly close the border if necessary. The government is closely monitoring the situation and learning from Finland’s approach, where the entire Finnish-Russian border, which spans 1,340 kilometers, was closed following a significant influx of over 1,300 third-country migrants without proper documentation or visas.
Finland’s decision to close its border with Russia was prompted by concerns about the exploitation of migrants for what it terms as Russia’s “hybrid warfare.” In response, Helsinki is constructing fences equipped with high-tech surveillance equipment spanning up to 200 kilometers in different sections along the border zone, essential for effective monitoring and control of any potential migrant crossings. Justice Minister Enger Mehl sees Finland’s project as a potential model for Norway, with Police Chief Ellen Katrine Hætta in Finnmark county expressing support for the idea of a border fence.
The current fencing at the Storskog border station, erected in 2016, is 200 meters long and 3.5 meters high, following a surge of approximately 5,000 migrants and asylum-seekers crossing over from Russia to Norway the previous year. The proposed fence along the Norway-Russia border aims to serve as both a deterrent and a surveillance tool to enhance border security. As discussions progress, Norwegian authorities are evaluating various security measures to protect the border region effectively.
