The Norwegian participating broadcaster, Norsk rikskringkasting (NRK), selected its entry through the Melodi Grand Prix 1980.

[1] The verse of the song also refers to this with the line "framførr tinget der dem satt, hørtes joiken dag og natt" (in front of the parliament where they sat, the yoik was heard day and night).

Norsk rikskringkasting (NRK) held the Melodi Grand Prix 1980 at its studios in Oslo, hosted by Åse Kleveland who represented Norway in 1966.

[2] On the night of the final Kjelsberg and Hætta performed 11th in the running order, following Finland and preceding Germany.

At the close of voting "Sámiid ædnan" had received 15 points, placing Norway 16th of the 19 entries.