Uncertainty Surrounding the USA Strengthens Governments in Europe. Norway Shows the Data
A January public opinion poll shows a clear shift in sentiment in Norway. Satisfaction with Jonas Gahr Støre's performance as Prime Minister is growing. The Labour Party is once again taking the lead.
In the photo: Jonas Gahr Støre and Donald Trump during a meeting in Washington (April 2025).
Fot. Daniel Sannum Lauten/Pool/TV2/Statsministerens kontor (Flickr.com, CC BY-NC 2.0)
After a weak December, support for Jonas Gahr Støre and Norway's Labour Party has increased. This is according to the latest survey conducted by Norstat for NRK, Dagbladet, and Vårt Land. The data show a reversal of the previous trend. According to experts, the international situation and a shift in voters' focus to foreign policy are key factors.
Change in Voter Sentiment in Norway
In December, 45% of Norwegians were dissatisfied with the Prime Minister's work, while 36% rated the Cabinet's work positively. In January, the proportions reversed. The percentage of satisfied respondents rose to 45%, while the dissatisfied dropped to 37%. The remaining respondents answered "I don't know."
Compared to the end of the year, this is a clear turnaround. Previous poor results were linked to the debate around the state budget. Current data show that this topic has lost its significance.
Compared to the end of the year, this is a clear turnaround. Previous poor results were linked to the debate around the state budget. Current data show that this topic has lost its significance.
Norwegians disagree, among other things, with Trump's policies on Venezuela, Greenland, and his attitude towards NATO.Photo: Flickr.cpm/Gage Skidmore/CC BY-SA 2.0
Is It All Because of Donald Trump?
Political scientist Jonas Stein from the Arctic University of Tromsø points to the so-called 'rally around the flag' effect. In crisis situations, voters are more likely to unite around incumbent leaders. This phenomenon is currently visible in Norway as well.
According to Stein, global uncertainty has dominated public debate and everyday social conversations. In such conditions, experience in foreign policy and security becomes more important.
The Prime Minister emphasizes that the world is changing very quickly. In his view, Norway's involvement in international affairs is meant to provide citizens with a sense of security and stability. These issues are now being taken more seriously by voters.
According to Stein, global uncertainty has dominated public debate and everyday social conversations. In such conditions, experience in foreign policy and security becomes more important.
The Prime Minister emphasizes that the world is changing very quickly. In his view, Norway's involvement in international affairs is meant to provide citizens with a sense of security and stability. These issues are now being taken more seriously by voters.
Norwegians Choose Experienced Diplomats
The January poll shows that the Labour Party is the most popular political group in the country. The party recorded the largest increase in support compared to December.
Experts quoted by NRK highlight the importance of the government team. Jonas Gahr Støre, Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, and Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide are seen as competent in foreign policy and security.
Similar trends are also being observed in other countries in the region. Political scientists point to increased support for ruling parties in, among others, Denmark. The phenomenon is directly linked to the unstable international situation.
Experts quoted by NRK highlight the importance of the government team. Jonas Gahr Støre, Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, and Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide are seen as competent in foreign policy and security.
Similar trends are also being observed in other countries in the region. Political scientists point to increased support for ruling parties in, among others, Denmark. The phenomenon is directly linked to the unstable international situation.
How do you rate this article?