The Norwegian Sámi Association ( ; ; ; ), also known as NSR, is the largest Sámi organization in Norway. The association was founded in 1968.
Purpose The NSR actively runs cultural, social, and informational work through local groups and Sámi associations. In total, 24 Sámi associations are attached to the NSR. The NSR is also active politically, running for elections in Sametinget (the Sámi Parliament of Norway) and sending delegates to the Sámi Council.
The NSR was founded in 1968, so it has been contributing to the development of Sámi society and culture since before the Sámi Parliament was established. The NSR goal is to unite the Sámi people across different special interests. As such, the NSR is independent of any outside political parties or religions.
Since the establishment of the Sámi Parliament in 1989, the NSR has held the leadership and presidency of the organization. The Sámi Parliament presidents have been Ole Henrik Magga from Kautokeino (1989–1997), Sven-Roald Nystø from Tysfjord (1997–2005), and Aili Keskitalo from Kautokeino (2005–2007, 2013–2016 and 2017–2021).
Presidents The following table lists the presidents of the NSR since its founding.
Name TermBeatrice Fløystad 2022–presentVidar Andersen (acting) 2021–2022Runar Myrnes Balto 2018–2021Niillas Beaska 2014–2018Gunn Britt Retter (acting) 2013–2014Aili Keskitalo2008–2013Silje Karine Muotka2006–2008Martin Urheim (acting)2005–2006Aili Keskitalo2003–2005 Klemet Erland Hætta2001–2003Janoš Trosten1998–2001Geir Tommy Pedersen (acting)1997–1998Sven-Roald Nystø1995–1997Nils Thomas Utsi1991–1995Ragnhild Lydia Nystad1985–1991Ole Henrik Magga1980–1985 Odd Ivar Solbakk1979–1980Peder Andersen1976–1979Odd Mathis Hætta1974–1976Regnor Solbakk1971–1974Johan Mathis Klemetsen1969–1971
References
External links Norwegian Sámi Association