Election victory in Norway: Social Democrats face tough negotiations

The social democrat Støre is considered the winner of the parliamentary elections in Norway – he could head a center-left alliance as head of government. But the center and left parties set conditions.

Great cheers among the Social Democrats at the election party in the evening. “Jonas, Jonas” they called out to Jonas Gahr Støre as he stepped on stage. “The best way to solve the big tasks is together,” he shouted, raised his hands and let himself be celebrated.

The first big task will now be to find partners for a government. Most likely a center-left alliance with the Center Party and the Socialist Left Party, both of which have already announced tough negotiations.

Left Party sets conditions

“Without changes in climate protection we are out,” said the self-confident chairman of the socialist left party Audun Lysbakken. “Time will tell how far we will come. There are, however, crucial points for us. For example, it is crucial whether we manage to turn our climate policy around,” said Lysbakken. “So we will have to decide whether there will be a basis for a red-green-red government in the end, or whether we would rather go into the opposition. What is important, however, is that there will be no majority in parliament without us.”

First talks should start quickly, but it will probably take until mid-October to form a government, believes Social Democrat Støre.

Climate protection is considered a sticking point

Climate protection will be one of the most difficult topics in the negotiations, said Magnus Takvam, political journalist at NRK, the public broadcaster in Norway: “What makes it so difficult is that you cannot expect any radical change in climate policy. That is in a certain way Always the same way. You can set up a commission, but the big problems will not be solved there. Much has to happen now in the years ahead that lie ahead. “

Although climate protection was considered one of the most important issues in the election campaign, the Norwegians have not opted for a radical departure from oil and gas production. The Greens, who had hoped for a better election result, felt this fairly well.

Bourgeois camp with losses

Almost all parties in the bourgeois camp have lost votes, although Prime Minister Erna Solberg was a popular politician. Many Norwegians already miss them. “I was hoping that Solberg could continue. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out. She has done our country really well in recent years. Especially during the pandemic, she showed what a great person and head of government she is,” says one.

Another: “I believe that there has to be a greater focus on environmental and social policy. The previous government has not done that sufficiently.”

Social justice, more relief for low-wage earners – that is what Social Democrat Støre promised in the election campaign. This is how the Norwegians will measure him for the next four years. And should it fail, the conservatives will be ready again, said Solberg shortly after their defeat: “I think we will all be back in 2025.”