Breivik’s Lawsuit Against Solitary Confinement
Anders Behring Breivik, the far-right extremist behind the 2011 Norway massacre, took legal action against the Norwegian state, citing ‘degrading’ solitary confinement conditions at the Ringerike high-security prison.
His lawyer emphasized Breivik’s deteriorating mental state and alleged ‘suicidal’ tendencies.
Lengthy Isolation and Its Impact
Breivik, held separately from other inmates for 12 years, reportedly resorted to writing ‘kill me’ messages on his cell wall using his feces, expressing a dire sense of isolation and mental distress.
His lawyer argued that this prolonged isolation violates the European Convention on Human Rights by subjecting Breivik to ‘inhumane’ treatment.
Background and Legal Proceedings
Breivik, responsible for the Oslo van bomb attack and the subsequent mass shooting that killed 77 people, including youth at a political camp on Utoya island, received a 21-year sentence in 2012.
Despite this, his isolation persists, prompting Breivik’s legal challenge regarding the violation of his human rights.
Prison Conditions and Controversies
While incarcerated, Breivik is kept in a dedicated prison section, having access to facilities like a gym, TV room, and maintaining three budgies as pets.
However, his lawyer emphasized the profound impact of prolonged isolation and limited personal contact, asserting that Breivik’s restricted communication with the outside world infringes on his rights.
Government’s Defense and Ongoing Legal Battle
The state’s lawyers argue that Breivik’s isolation is necessary due to the security risk he poses, referring to his previous influence on individuals like Brenton Tarrant, who committed mass shootings in New Zealand.
The ongoing legal dispute revolves around Breivik’s request for improved correspondence rights and relaxation in his prison conditions.
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