Victor Norman, a prominent Norwegian economist and former minister, has passed away at the age of 78 after a prolonged illness.

Known for his tenure as the Minister of Labour and Administration in Kjell Magne Bondevik's second government, Norman was instrumental in decentralizing state jobs from Oslo, moving 900 positions to other cities in 2003. His academic contributions as a professor and former rector at the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) were widely celebrated, with students and colleagues praising his exceptional teaching skills.

Norman's passing has been met with tributes from political figures, including former Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik and Høyre leader Erna Solberg, who highlighted his impact on public administration and economic policy.

His wife, Christine Meyer, the current Bergen city council leader, expressed her deep sorrow, describing their life together as filled with love and intellectual engagement.

Norman's legacy as a reformer and educator will be deeply missed in Norway.