Norway – Research and development consultancy services – Centre for Research on the Public Disputing

The government has identified a need for a more systematic knowledge basis on developments in the public disputation. In order to follow-up the guidelines in Speech Preparedness – National strategy for an ope and illuminated public disputing, Strategy to steer resistance to disinformation and recommendations of the Freedom of Expression Commission, the government shall establish a research centre that shall contribute with long-term research on the public disputation, including the status of freedom of expression, polarisation and disinformation. According to the plan, the centre shall be established for the period 2026-2030. NOK 5 million, excluding VAT, has been granted for the budget year 2025-2026 for a procurement for the establishment of the centre. For the years 2027-2030, the ministry aims for an annual framework of NOK 10 million excluding VAT for further operation of the centre, subject to the Norwegian Parliament's annual budget processing. The contract ́s value is NOK 5 million excluding VAT, but if the Norwegian Parliament grants NOK 10 million excluding VAT for further operation of the centre in the years 2027-2030, the total value of the contract could be NOK 45 million excluding VAT.