Large exercise in Longyearbyen 10 September
On Thursday 10 September, there will be a large emergency preparedness and rescue exercise in Longyearbyen. Parts of the exercise will be visible to the public.
Published 9/8/2026
Russian passengers back in Russia
The Governor, in cooperation with the Russian authorities, has assisted in getting the passengers who were supposed to sail on the "Professor Molchanov" back to Russia.
Published 9/2/2026
Russian ship seized in Svalbard
The Governor of Svalbard has today, following an order from the Nord-Troms District Court, arrested the Russian ship "Professor Molchanov" which is docked in Barentsburg. The arrest was carried out after the Nord-Troms District Court granted the Ukrainian company Naftogaz the right to seize the Russian ship.
Published 8/28/2026
In memory of H.M. King Harald V
It is with great sadness that we today, August 28 at 08:35 have received the news of the death of His Majesty King Harald. In cooperation with Longyearbyen Local Council and Svalbard Church, arrangements have been made for the population of Longyearbyen to show their respect.
Published 8/27/2026
Fined for flying a drone in a national park in Svalbard
A visitor has been fined NOK 12,000 for flying a drone in a national park in Svalbard. The fine has been accepted.
Published 8/25/2026
Bird flu detected in yet another polar bear
The Norwegian Veterinary Institute has detected avian influenza in a young polar bear found dead on the northern tip of Spitsbergen. This is the second time the virus has been detected in polar bears in Norway and Europe.
Published 8/13/2026
Fined for disturbing a polar bear
A person has been fined NOK 50,000 for disturbing a polar bear in Svalbard.
Published 6/24/2026
All dogs must be on a leash
The Governor reminds that all dogs in Svalbard must be on a leash from 15 May to 15 August.
Published 5/27/2026
Two fined for illegal drone flight
Two visitors have been fined for illegal drone flight. Both have accepted the fines.
Published 5/19/2026
Bird flu detected in walrus and polar bear on Svalbard
The Norwegian Veterinary Institute has detected highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N5) in a polar bear and a walrus on Svalbard.