Anders Behring Breivik, a far-right extremist responsible for killing 77 people in Norway in 2011, is seeking an end to his isolation in prison, claiming that it violates his human rights.
At 44 years old, Breivik is also suing the state in an attempt to remove restrictions on his correspondence with the outside world.
Breivik carried out a bombing in Oslo that killed eight people, followed by a mass shooting that resulted in the deaths of 69 individuals, most of them teenagers attending a Labour Party youth camp, marking the worst peacetime atrocity in Norway.
His case has been a serious challenge for the country, which has long taken pride in its justice system’s rehabilitation efforts while still being deeply affected by the horror of his actions.
Breivik is currently held in the Ringerike high-security prison, located 70km northwest of Oslo, after being transferred from two other prisons. His designated area includes various amenities such as a training room, kitchen, TV room, and bathroom. Additionally, he is allowed to keep three pet budgerigars.
A filing from Breivik’s lawyer states that more than a decade of isolation “without meaningful interaction” has severely impacted Breivik’s mental state, leading to suicidal thoughts and a dependency on depression medication.
Lawyers representing the justice ministry argue that Breivik must remain isolated from the rest of the prison population due to the ongoing security threat he poses. They claim that his isolation is “relative” due to his interactions with guards, health professionals, and a priest, although he no longer wishes to see an outside volunteer. He is also allowed to meet with two inmates for an hour every other week.
The lawyers also state that controlling Breivik’s contacts with the outside world is justified by the potential risk of inspiring others to commit violent acts, particularly within far-right circles.
Breivik is serving a 21-year sentence, the longest possible under Norwegian law, with the possibility of an extension based on his continued threat to society.
A hearing has been scheduled for Monday, and the judge’s verdict, which will be issued in the coming weeks, will determine if Breivik’s isolation will be lifted or continued.
