Norway’s New Security Strategy – What Does It Mean for Your Business?

Norway’s New Security Strategy – What Does It Mean for Your Business?

The Norwegian government has launched the country’s first national security strategy to address an increasingly serious and complex threat landscape. The strategy emphasises that society as a whole must contribute – including the business sector. Here, we provide an overview of the key points, and how we can support your business in navigating the new requirements and opportunities.

How Norway Plans to Address Increased Risk with a New National Security Strategy

On Liberation and Veterans Day, 8 May, the Norwegian government presented the National Security Strategy. This strategy is Norway’s response to an increasingly complex and demanding security landscape. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre described the strategy as a necessary reaction to «the most serious security situation since the Second World War.» He emphasised that Norway faces a more dangerous Russia, heightened great-power rivalry, and intensified technological competition. The strategy is designed to enhance Norway’s ability to address these challenges and ensure a safe, independent, and resilient society. 

The Prime Minister also highlighted that the strategy is not solely about military strength but about building a robust society capable of handling everything from cyberattacks to economic threats. He called on businesses, municipalities, and individuals to contribute actively: «The entire society must be involved—from the highest levels of government to businesses and individual citizens.» 

The strategy is a call to action for government agencies, businesses — both domestic and international — and individuals to contribute to a safer Norway.

Read more: Total Defense and the Business Sector: What Does the Heightened Threat Landscape Mean for You?

The strategy’s key objectives include:

  • Strengthening defence capabilities: Increasing military capacity and contributing to European security through NATO.  
  • Enhancing societal resilience: Reducing vulnerabilities and managing serious incidents such as cyberattacks.  
  • Securing economic stability: Reducing dependency on insecure nations and strengthening control over strategic value chains.  
  • Protecting critical infrastructure: Ensuring the robustness of energy, telecommunications, and transportation systems.  
  • Promoting international cooperation: Strengthening ties with NATO, the EU, and allied nations to address global challenges.  
How does the strategy affect international companies?

Norway’s new security strategy is not only relevant for domestic stakeholders, but also for international companies operating in or engaging with the Norway. With a strong focus on defence capabilities, protecting critical infrastructure, and enhancing economic security, the strategy opens opportunities for cross-border collaboration, supply chain partnerships, and technology transfer. Businesses in sectors such as defence, cybersecurity, energy, and technology will find Norway’s close alignment with NATO, the EU, and allied nations particularly valuable when expanding in Europe.

Below are the eight key priorities of the strategy and how we can assist your business:

Why Choose Brækhus to Support Your Business

As a law firm with an extensive international network and broad experience working with stakeholders across Europe and the United States, Brækhus is uniquely positioned to assist both Norwegian and international companies in the defence and security industries. Brækhus are members of the Norwegian Defence and Security Industries Association (FSi), as well as organisations such as Andersen Global, Meritas, and various chambers of commerce, including the Norwegian-German Chamber of Commerce (AHK) and AmCham. These affiliations provide us with access to a global network of legal and advisory experts.  

Read more: Defence Forum at Brækhus

Brækhus is present at key forums and events for the defence and security industries and have a dedicated team that collaborates closely with advisory environments and industry players. This enables us to understand the unique challenges and opportunities in the sector and offer tailored solutions to help your business navigate this complex landscape.  

Read more about Brækhus’ expertise within Defence, Security and Preparedness.

Total Defense and the Business Sector: What Does the Heightened Threat Landscape Mean for You?

Total Defense and the Business Sector: What Does the Heightened Threat Landscape Mean for You?

The threat landscape in 2025 is severe, with foreign actors increasingly willing to take greater risks.

Recent threat assessments by the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST), the Norwegian National Security Authority (NSM), and the Intelligence Service highlight a growing danger of sabotage, insider threats, cyberattacks, and economic espionage. Norwegian businesses must strengthen their preparedness now.

What if an employee in your company receives a LinkedIn request with an enticing offer to disclose information? What if a subcontractor’s weak IT security allows foreign actors access to sensitive data? Or if a newly hired employee proudly shares a photo of their access badge on social media—only for unauthorized individuals to copy it and gain entry?

Escalating Cyber Threats

Cyber operations targeting Norwegian businesses are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Both state-sponsored and criminal actors use digital operations to gather intelligence, influence decision-makers, and disrupt critical infrastructure. Sectors such as energy, finance, healthcare, and technology are particularly vulnerable. The consequences can be significant—financial losses, reputational damage, and the loss of trade secrets.

Insider Risks and Sabotage Threats – A Hidden Danger

Threat assessments indicate a heightened risk of sabotage against critical infrastructure, including power supply, transportation, and telecommunications. State actors also exploit economic tools and supply chains to gain access to sensitive information. Insider threats pose a particularly serious challenge, as employees with access to critical systems may be subjected to coercion, financial incentives, or ideological influence to leak information or sabotage operations.

Economic Espionage and Foreign Influence

Foreign states engage in economic espionage to gain insight into Norwegian technological and industrial advancements. This is often carried out through investments, partnerships, or covert ownership in strategically important businesses.

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How We Can Assist

To address the current threat landscape, we assist businesses with a strategic review of security risks and necessary measures. Our advisory services include:

  • Security and Preparedness Strategy: We help businesses assess risks, implement preventive measures, and develop robust contingency plans.
  • Managing Insider Risks and Supply Chains: We support businesses with contracts and due diligence to minimize vulnerabilities. This includes evaluating the feasibility of credit assessments, background checks, and substance testing, as well as establishing procedures for accessing employees’ email accounts and computers.
  • Regulatory Compliance: We ensure that your business adheres to the Security Act and other regulatory requirements related to critical infrastructure and national security.
  • Legal Support for Cyber Operations and Security Incidents: We provide legal guidance on incidents with regulatory or legal implications, including mandatory reporting to authorities in cases of personal data security breaches.

The threat landscape is continuously evolving, and Norwegian businesses must take a proactive approach. Contact us for an assessment of how we can enhance your company’s security and preparedness.