On 19 November 2024, Anders Behring Breivik, who killed 77 people in horrific twin attacks in Norway in 2011, faced a court for his second attempt at parole. Despite a decade behind bars, Breivik’s request is expected to be denied once again.
The Background of His Crimes
Breivik, a right-wing extremist, orchestrated Norway’s worst peacetime atrocity on 22 July 2011, when he detonated a car bomb near government offices in Oslo, killing eight individuals. He subsequently travelled to Utoeya island, posing as a police officer, where he shot 69 people, predominantly teenagers, attending a Labour Party youth camp.
Recent Court Hearing
- His first parole request was denied in January 2022, with the court citing a “clear risk” of reoffending.
- Breivik appeared in a black suit and tie, reiterating his extremist beliefs.
- He expressed intentions of aiding the Norwegian state if released, while also hinting he could remain silent.
Legal Challenges
Norwegian law permits Breivik to seek conditional early release annually after serving ten years of his 21-year sentence, which can be extended indefinitely if he remains a threat. Previous evaluations, including a 109-page psychological report commissioned by his lawyer, did not sway the prosecution’s stance against his release.
Human Rights Claims
In February 2024, Breivik lost a lawsuit against the Norwegian state, arguing that his isolation conditions violated European human rights law. The state defended his treatment as justified due to the extreme risk he poses.
Preparations for the Court Ruling
The date for the court’s decision has not yet been announced. In previous hearings, Breivik revealed feelings of depression and a reliance on Prozac, even breaking down in tears during testimonies.
As this case unfolds, Norway continues to wrestle with the legacy of this tragic event and the complex interplay of justice, safety, and human rights.