Sjamanistisk Forbund, founded in 2012, has achieved significant results that have strengthened shamanic practice and nature-based faith in Norway. These results have come about thanks to an enormous effort put in by dedicated people who have worked toward these outcomes over a long period of time. Some of these are:
The federation was approved as a religious community by the authorities, which gives it the right to perform ceremonies such as baptisms, weddings, and funerals. This recognition gives members a sense of security and legitimacy in their practices. Shamanism was thereby recognized as an official religion in Norway.
Through various events and educational programs, the federation has contributed to greater awareness of shamanism and its cultural significance. Workshops, ceremonies, seminars, and public lectures promote understanding and respect for shamanic traditions.
Sjamanistisk Forbund now holds a seat on the board of the European Congress of Ethnic Religions (ECER), an international body that works to support ethnic religions and prevent discrimination against them. The federation's representative, Kyrre Gram Franck, helps shape strategies and initiatives that can help combat discrimination against ethnic religious communities in Europe.
A number of theses and textbook chapters have been written about Sjamanistisk Forbund. Today, Sjamanistisk Forbund is taught from primary school level up to university level.
Through school visits and a specialized teaching program, many pupils have gained more knowledge and insight into shamanism, both in a historical perspective and up to the present day.
Shamanism has traditionally been an oral tradition. The publication of the federation's ceremony book is the first of its kind (at least in Norway) to place ceremonies within a system that is documented in writing for posterity.
Since 2025, Sjamanistisk Forbund has been recognized as part of adult education through the study association Kultur og Tradisjon. This is an important step on the way toward having shamanism recognized as part of the intangible religious cultural heritage of Norway.
The importance of membership in Sjamanistisk Forbund for nature-based faith
For those who practice nature-based faith, membership in Sjamanistisk Forbund is especially important for several reasons.
Membership provides a platform for the exchange of experiences and knowledge about nature-based faith and shamanism. This community makes it easier to share practices and traditions, which can enrich the individual's spiritual journey.
As members of an official religious community, practitioners receive protection under the law. This is crucial for ensuring that their right to practice their faith is respected, especially in light of historical marginalization.
Membership contributes to greater recognition of nature-based faith as a legitimate worldview tradition. This can help counteract the stigmatization and misunderstandings associated with alternative faiths.
The situation for paganism in Europe
In Europe, paganism faces several challenges. Many countries have strict requirements for the registration of religious communities, which can prevent smaller groups from being recognized. Pagan communities often find that both the authorities and established religious institutions try to prevent them from registering. The challenges include:
High membership requirements: Many nations require a high number of members for registration (between 2,500 and 10,000 members), which can be a barrier for small or newly established groups. In Norway, there is a requirement of at least 300 members in order to register as a religious community with the right to financial support and the right to officiate weddings.
Social stigmatization: Skepticism toward paganism and alternative worldviews still exists in many societies, which can lead to the social stigmatization of practitioners. This makes it more difficult for them to practice their faith openly. It has also led to a number of sacred sites being vandalized.
Lack of support from the authorities: In some cases, pagan groups find that they do not receive the support they need from the authorities, which hinders their ability to operate effectively or grow.
Sjamanistisk Forbund has achieved significant results in a short time, from the lifting of restrictions on important practices to official recognition as a religious community. For those who practice nature-based faith, membership is crucial for protection, cultural recognition, and access to a supportive community. At the same time, paganism in Europe faces challenges related to registration and social acceptance. It is crucial that such communities continue to fight for their rights and work together to preserve and revitalize their traditions in the face of opposition. Although Norway in many ways offers good conditions for small religious communities today, we see that the development here too is moving more in the direction of other countries in Europe.
To become a member of Sjamanistisk Forbund, one should have respect for nature and recognize the sacred in all living things. This involves a belief that everything in nature is ensouled, from trees and animals to mountains and water. Members must agree that everything is connected through a shared spiritual energy, and that human beings have a responsibility to live in harmony with nature and the spiritual forces that flow through it. This perspective is central to shamanic practice and worldview.
Become a member here
