‘Sami rights are at risk’: Reindeer herders, environmentalists oppose mine in Norway’s Arctic
https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20250804-sami-rights-risk-reindeer-herders-environmental-activists-oppose-copper-mine-arctic-norway
Posted by EsseNorway
3 Comments
The indigenous practice of chasing reindeer around on quadbikes and snowmobiles is under threat I tell you.
It is hard to believe for people outside reindeer husbandry areas, but sami people oppose any and all development by their fellow Norwegians, as a matter of principle.
Not just the big issues you read about in the media.
Also smaller things, like waterworks for parts of an arctic municipality.
Reindeer meat is very tasty and healthy, and the furs are very warm, but when they are deemed more important than clean drinking water, maybe the rights of other Norwegians are at risk.
Having some Sami family (I haven’t talked to in many years, granted), they’re the silent majority types. They hate stuff like this and just wish to be left alone to practice the traditional ways of living.
As a quarter Sami myself, well, I don’t really notice or care 😅 I’m not really Sami by culture, just blood, so I guess my vote doesnt count anyway.
Have started telling less people my heritage Irl though, and every time I do they want my opinion on these activists. (if you’re curious, I’m not a fan either, I respect wanting to preserve “our ways”, but it’s always felt more like it’s been about getting attention for attentions sake rather than legit concern)