Representatives of Sami organizations in Russia last week visited the Norwegian Sami Parliament in Karasjok. The organizations are fighting for the establishment of their own Sami Parliament in the Kola Peninsula, and now want to learn more about the Norwegian structure.
There is a long way to go before a Sami Parliament can be established in Russia. Vice President of the Norwegian Sami Parliament, Ms. Marianne Balto, is not sure whether Russia is ready for the adoption of such an assembly. The Norwegian Sami Parliament has promised to support the Russians in their bid for their parliament.
The Norwegian Sami Parliament (Sámediggi) is elected by the Sámi every four years in counjunction with Norways general election. The Sámediggi consists of 43 representatives elected by direct vote. The first election was held in 1989. The Sámediggi is now in its fifth period, 2005-2009.
Read more about the Sami parliament in Norway here
