Norway's Elections Yield Red-Green Government Coalition

In the recent Norwegian election, the Labour Party, led by incumbent Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, secured a significant victory with 28.1% of the votes, an increase of 1.8% compared to the 2021 parliamentary election. With 169 seats in the Storting, the red-green bloc, which includes the Labour Party, the Socialist Left Party, the Red Party (Rødt), and the Green Party (Miljøpartiet De Grønne), would have a narrow majority in parliament.

However, the left bloc is deeply divided on new oil and gas exploitation. While Støre's Ap does not oppose new drilling, three of the parties from the red-green spectrum do not want to allow it. This potential divide could pose challenges for a potential Støre government in parliament.

The Right-wing Progress Party saw the biggest increase in votes (plus 12.6%) and came in second with 24.2% of the votes. Meanwhile, the Conservatives, led by former Prime Minister Erna Solberg, came in third with 14.5% of the votes, a loss of 5.8 percentage points compared to 2021.

The preliminary final result of the election is expected during the night. The outcome holds significant implications for all of Europe due to Norway's close ties with the EU, as a member of the European Economic Area (EEA). Norway has become one of Europe's most important energy suppliers since the Ukraine war. Oil and gas production are Norway's main sources of income and also its largest contributors to climate change.

Minority governments are not uncommon in Norway, as a party or coalition does not need a parliamentary majority to govern. Støre has been leading a minority government since 2021. However, in Norway, a minority government must not have a majority of the parliament voting against them.

The red-green bloc has expressed their support for a government led by Social Democrat Støre during the campaign. The election saw around four million Norwegians called to vote. The exact composition of the new government remains to be seen, but a potential coalition under Støre could be crucial in shaping Norway's future energy policies and its relationship with the EU. The final results of the election are eagerly awaited by both Norwegians and Europeans alike.