Anders Breivik starts studying at the University of Oslo
The far-right extremist will study modules on political science from his high security prison cell
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Anders Breivik, the far-right extremist who murdered 77 people during an attack in Norway, has been enrolled at the University of Oslo to study political science.
The 34-year-old is currently serving a 21 year sentence for detonating a bomb in Oslo's government district, before travelling to the Norwegian Labour Party's summer youth camp on the island of Utoya and shooting 69 people, mostly teenagers.
During his trial he described himself as a "militant nationalist" who killed to fight multi-culturalism in Norway.
Breivik has not been admitted to the degree-granting programme and will instead study modules whilst at the high security Skien prison where he is currently being detained, after carrying out his attack on 22 July 2011.
In an article written for The Guardian, the university argued that as an inmate in Norwegian law, he is entitled to pursue higher education on the basis of merit, as all Norwegian citizens are.
The university rector Ole Petter Ottersen said: "Having been admitted to study political science, Breivik will have to read about democracy and justice, and about how pluralism and respect for individual human rights, protection of minorities and fundamental freedoms have been instrumental for the historical development of modern Europe.
"Under no circumstances will Breivik be admitted to campus. But in his cell he will be given ample possibilities to reflect on his atrocities and misconceptions."
Mr Ottersen added that by sticking to the rules of admission they demonstrate to Breivik and the public that "our values are fundamentally different to his".
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments