Sexual orientation is about the gender(s) to which a person is attracted romantically and sexually. You may be attracted to a person of another gender (heterosexuality), to a person of the same gender (homosexuality) or any gender (bisexuality).

No one can choose his/her sexual orientation. Different people may have different sexual orientations. Parents cannot influence through upbringing whether their children become homosexual, heterosexual or bisexual.

The situation in Norway

Two men being intimate

In Norway, you are entitled to love whomever you choose, regardless of your sexual orientation. For example, men can love and be in a relationship with women and/or men; women can love and be in a relationship with men and/or women.

In Norway, no one should be persecuted or punished based on his/her sexual orientation. It is forbidden by law to treat other people unequally or discriminate against them based on their sexual orientation. This means that people should not be disadvantaged or discriminated because they are homosexual, heterosexual or bisexual.

If you need help or have any questions

If you are being or have been unequally treated or discriminated against based on your sexual orientation, you can contact the Equality and Anti-Discrimination Ombud. You can also contact a counselling service or peer organization if you have any questions or worries related to your sexual orientation.

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