Stronger Together in a Changing World

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Norway is already deeply connected to the EU—through trade, regulations, and shared values—yet it lacks a voice in the decisions that shape its future. As the world navigates climate change, digital transformation, and geopolitical shifts, Norway’s influence and prosperity depend on full participation in Europe’s most powerful union. Joining the EU isn’t about giving up sovereignty; it’s about gaining the power to shape the rules that affect us every day.

Why Norway Should Join the EU: Seizing Opportunity, Shaping the Future

From economic growth and scientific collaboration to stronger global influence, EU membership offers Norway the chance to lead, not just follow. But misconceptions and historic hesitations persist. Below, we address the key questions: Why is now the right time for Norway to join? What are the real benefits for Norwegians? And how can we overcome the challenges that have held us back? Let’s explore how Norway can turn EU membership into an opportunity for progress, fairness, and a stronger role in Europe and the world.

Why Norway Should Join the EU

Norway is already closely aligned with the EU, adopting most of its single market rules through the EEA agreement. But without membership, we have no vote, no voice, and no power to shape the policies that directly affect our economy, our environment, and our society. Full EU membership would allow Norway to move from passive compliance to active leadership—ensuring that our values and priorities help define Europe’s direction.

Legislation Without Representation: Norway’s Democratic Deficit

Today, Norway follows nearly all EU single market regulations without having a say in how they are created. This democratic deficit leaves us at a disadvantage, forced to accept rules we didn’t help design. EU membership would give Norway a seat at the table, allowing us to advocate for our interests and contribute to a stronger, fairer Europe.

How Norway and Norwegians Will Profit From EU Membership

From increased trade and access to research funding to stronger environmental protections and workers’ rights, EU membership offers real, tangible benefits. Norwegian businesses would gain easier access to the world’s largest market, while our citizens would benefit from enhanced consumer protections, educational opportunities, and cross-border collaboration.

Navigating the Historic Hurdles to Membership

Norway’s relationship with the EU has been shaped by past referendums and political debates. But the world—and Europe—has changed. By learning from history and addressing the concerns that have held us back, we can build a new path forward, one that secures Norway’s influence and prosperity in an increasingly interconnected world.

The 5+1 Challenges

Volt has defined 5+1 fundamental Challenges that need to be tackled in each European country and in Europe as a whole.

Why 5 + 1 Challenges?

The 5 Challenges are basically the same for every country, but their implementation can be adapted on the national level to take into account local realities.

The +1 Challenge – our proposal to reform and strengthen the EU – is identical across all our national programmes.

All Policies in one place
  • 01

    Smart State

    Education and digitalisation are key elements of the 21st century

  • 02

    Economic Renaissance

    An innovative economy must be the engine of society's progress

  • 03

    Social Equality

    No-one should be left behind - no matter their gender, income, religion. or origin

  • 04

    Global Balance

    Europe needs to assume responsibility for its role in global challenges

  • 05

    Citizen Empowerment

    People must be empowered to influence politics beyond elections alone

  • +1

    EU Reform

    We love the EU - this doesn't mean there is no room for improvement