Arbeiderpartiet at a Glance

Flag of Norway

Arbeiderpartiet

Labour Party

Political Compass
Conservative
Social
Market-oriented
Progressive
Stance on the EU
Anti-EU
Pro-EU
The Labour Party (Arbeiderpartiet, Ap) is a social democratic political party in Norway. As a central force of the centre-left movement, it has shaped the Scandinavian welfare model for decades, advocating for a robust welfare state, social justice, and close ties to European structures.

Values and Worldview

The party's foundation is rooted in classical democratic socialism, which has evolved into modern social democracy. Its worldview is built upon the pillars of liberty, equality, and solidarity. The Labour Party (Ap) views the state not as an adversary, but as a necessary instrument to correct market failures and guarantee social mobility for all citizens. It strives for a society without deep class divisions, where collective responsibility and individual development go hand in hand.

Policy Priorities

The party's agenda focuses on securing full employment and expanding the public sector. Core demands include a fair tax system, free access to education, and top-tier healthcare. Traditionally appealing to the working class and trade unions, the party now increasingly targets the urban middle class. A central tension persists in balancing the economically vital oil industry with the country's ambitious climate protection goals.

Role in the Political System

Strategically, the Labour Party (Arbeiderpartiet) acts as a foundational force and architect of Norwegian institutions. It occupies the centre-left political position and typically serves as the anchor for coalition formations within its bloc. While staunchly supporting the rule of law and parliamentary democracy, internationally it advocates for pragmatic cooperation, for instance, through the EEA Agreement, though its grassroots membership remains historically deeply divided on the EU question.

Key Policy Areas & Ideological Alignment

This chart illustrates the key issues for the party. Points further from the center indicate higher significance.

Core Positions & Policy Platforms

Stance 2024
Stance 2019

Economy & State

Wealth Redistribution
Pro-Redistribution
Market-Driven
Fiscal Policy
Public Investment
Austerity & Tax Cuts
Trade Policy
Free Trade
Protectionism

Society & Values

Civil Liberties vs. Security
Civil Liberties
Law & Order
Gender Equality Measures
Pro-Promotion
Against Promotion
LGBTQ+ Equality
Pro-Equality
Traditional Values
Same-Sex Marriage
Pro-Marriage
Against
Religion in Politics
Secularism
Religious Influence
Urban vs. Rural Priority
Focus on Urban Areas
Focus on Rural Areas

Environment & Climate

Environment vs. Economy: What's More Important?
Environmental Protection Over Economic Growth
Economic Growth Over Environmental Protection
Climate Action vs. Economic Growth
Climate Protection First
Economic Growth First

Migration & Integration

Immigration Policy
Open
Restrictive
Integration & Culture
Multiculturalism
Assimilation
Rights for Ethnic Minorities
Expand Rights
Equal Treatment Only
National Sovereignty
Cosmopolitan
Nationalist

Democracy & Institutions

Executive Power Distribution
Decentralized
Strong Executive
Judicial Independence
Independent
Executive Oversight
State Organization
Federalism
Centralism

Historical Election Results

Arbeiderpartiet: Election Result Trends in Norway

History of Government Participation since 1945

Power Dynamics: Historical Government Roles
Leading Government
In Government
2

Total Cabinet Participations

Total Duration: 2 years • 6 months • 1 week • 4 days

2

Cabinets Led

Total Duration: 2 years • 6 months • 1 week • 4 days

0

Coalition Participations

Total Duration: -

3%

Time in Government

The party participated in government for 3% of the legislative period.

Støre II
2025
Ap
Støre III
2025
Ap

Data Sources and Methodology

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Political data is constantly evolving. If you spot an error, please let us know. A brief reference to your source will help us verify and update the information.

ParlGov – Parliamentary Democracy Data

A comprehensive research database from the University of Bremen, documenting parties, elections, and governments for comparative analysis.

Additional Sources

Döring, Holger and Philip Manow. 2024. Parliaments and governments database (ParlGov).

CHES – Chapel Hill Expert Survey

The leading expert survey on party positions in Europe. Over 400 political scientists document party stances based on rigorous scientific criteria.

Additional Sources

Rovny, Jan, et al. “25 Years of Political Party Positions in Europe: The Chapel Hill Expert Survey, 1999-2024.”