Also, a few prominent leaders could put obstacles in the way of others' full participation in Norwegian society. Among immigrants themselves opinions are divided on which integration policy is best. There are both modernists who advocate equality for women and traditionalists who insist on continued adherence to the age-old values. A balance must be struck between the right to equal treatment and the right to be different if integration is to work. The law stipulates that all those living in Norway are to have an equal right to work and education and few in Norway openly defend differential treatment.
Laws also govern religious tolerance.
In other words it is an area in which differences must be accepted in accordance with the law, and citizens also have a right to a mother tongue other than Norwegian. During the last two to three years, classical conceptions of Norway and what it means to be Norwegian have been challenged. This is due not least to the multi-ethnic society. What degree of difference can be accepted and what constitutes a violation of society's most basic values. Views on religion, marriage, the rearing of children and even language where the conflict between standard Norwegian and new Norwegian still rages create deep rifts among ethnic Norwegians.