Norway is considering constructing a fence along portions of its 198-kilometer (123-mile) border with Russia, drawing inspiration from a similar initiative by neighboring Finland. Justice Minister Emilie Enger Mehl disclosed that the government is exploring a range of security measures to strengthen border controls amid heightened tensions in the region.
In an interview with Norwegian broadcaster NRK, Mehl explained, “A border fence is not only a deterrent but also an effective security tool equipped with sensors and technology to detect any movement near the border.” These enhancements could improve Norway’s ability to monitor activities along its Arctic frontier with Russia.
Among the possible measures under review are increasing border personnel and enhancing surveillance systems. The government is also ready to take more drastic actions, including closing the border if the security situation deteriorates. The Storskog border station, Norway’s sole official crossing point with Russia, has seen minimal illegal activity in recent years, but concerns over potential threats persist.
This initiative comes as Finland closes sections of its 1,340-kilometer (830-mile) border with Russia, a decision triggered by a spike in unauthorized migrants entering the country in late 2023. Finland’s government cited security risks, including what it described as Russia’s “hybrid warfare” tactics, using migration as a geopolitical tool. In response, Helsinki has started constructing 200 kilometers (124 miles) of fencing, with advanced surveillance systems concentrated around border crossings.
Mehl, who visited Finland over the summer to observe their security measures, sees Norway potentially following suit. “A fence may become relevant for all or part of the border,” she noted, emphasizing that any new infrastructure would help improve monitoring and provide critical time to react in case of unauthorized crossings.
The discussion around Norway’s border fence has gained support from officials in Finnmark County, including police chief Ellen Katrine Hætta, who echoed the need for stronger border defenses. The Storskog station is already partially fortified with a 200-meter (660-foot), 12-foot-high fence, erected in 2016 after a surge of 5,000 migrants entered Norway from Russia the previous year.
Norway, while a NATO member, is not part of the European Union but remains part of the Schengen Area, ensuring open borders with other Schengen participants. However, with increasing concerns over security and migration, the government is contemplating a more guarded approach to its border with Russia.