Controversy Erupts Over Norwegian Journalist’s Remarks Comparing Dogs and Muslims
Oslo, Norway – A social media post by Espen Teigen, a former political advisor and journalist for the website Document, has ignited a firestorm of criticism in Norway. Teigen expressed a preference for dogs over Muslims, sparking accusations of racism and xenophobia from political leaders and human rights organizations.
The Initial Post and Response
Teigen’s post on X (formerly Twitter) came in response to a similar statement made by Republican Congressman Randy Fine from Florida. Fine had stated he would choose dogs over Muslims, a comment stemming from a debate about a Palestinian activist criticizing dogs as “unclean” pets [VG]. Teigen echoed this sentiment, writing, “Couldn’t agree more with Randy Fine. If the choice is between keeping dogs or Muslims in Norway, it is not a difficult choice.”
The post, accompanied by a picture of his golden retriever Fritz, quickly spread across social media, drawing immediate condemnation.
Political Fallout and Accusations of Racism
Gaute Skjervø, leader of the Workers’ Youth League (AUF), labeled Teigen’s statement “racist” and expressed concern over the normalization of such views in Norwegian political discourse [VG]. Skjervø further criticized the political environment surrounding Document, suggesting a descent into extremism.
Skjervø stated, “This racism – such as it is – was not common in Norway a few years ago.” He likewise criticized the potential for such views to be shielded by the guise of journalistic objectivity.
Nils August Andresen, editor-in-chief of the conservative website Minerva and Aage Borchgrevink, a senior advisor at the Norwegian Helsinki Committee, also voiced strong disapproval, with Borchgrevink describing the post as “sick” and a form of dehumanization reminiscent of fascist rhetoric [VG].
Teigen’s Defense and Claims About Islam
Teigen defended his statement, claiming he was not comparing people to animals but rather highlighting concerns about perceived “special requirements” of Islam. He argued that he would prioritize animal welfare over accommodating those requirements [VG].
He further asserted, without providing specific evidence, that “every believing Muslim says that dogs are unclean” and linked this to historical and religious practices, including halal slaughter, which he described as “disgusting.”
Expert Analysis and Context
Ragnhild Johnsrud Zorgati, a professor of religious studies at the University of Oslo (UiO), countered Teigen’s claims, stating that keeping dogs was common during the time of the Prophet Muhammad and that many Muslims currently keep dogs as guard dogs or pets [VG]. She cautioned against using selective interpretations of religious texts to support prejudiced views.
Broader Implications and Condemnation
Umar Ashraf, General Manager of the Anti-Racist Center, condemned the post as a dangerous expression of racism, noting the historical parallels of portraying people as less desirable than animals [VG].
The controversy also extends to the United States, where Congressman Randy Fine has faced calls for his resignation from Democratic leaders, who have labeled his statements as Islamophobic and bigoted [VG].
Teigen’s Background
Espen Teigen previously served as a political advisor to Sylvi Listhaug, a prominent figure in the Progress Party (FrP). He was also involved in a controversy surrounding Listhaug’s resignation as Minister of Justice in 2018, related to the spreading of a far-right conspiracy theory [Nettavisen]. In December 2024, Teigen was sentenced to nine months in prison for fraud related to a housing allowance [Utenfilter].