For the first time in Norwegian history, no person over the age of 65 will sit in the national parliament (Stortinget) after the upcoming election. This development has raised concerns about democratic representation, particularly for the country’s large population of senior citizens.
The warning was issued by Åge Rosnes, a board member of the National Association for Public Pensioners (Landsforbundet for offentlige pensjonister, LOP) and a local politician for the Socialist Left Party (SV). In a commentary published by NRK Ytring, Rosnes called the absence of senior candidates from electable positions a “democratic problem.”
One in five Norwegians are over 65
Rosnes underlined that more than 1.1 million Norwegians, nearly 20% of the population, are over the age of 65. Yet, none of the major parties have offered a secure position on their electoral lists to a senior candidate. According to Rosnes, a single exception exists: a second-place candidate for the Red Party (Rødt) in Hordaland, who could enter parliament if the party performs strongly.
During the current term, only three MPs have been older than 67. After the election, the oldest member of the new Storting will be Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, who just turned 65. Three others, including former Prime Minister Erna Solberg, will reach 65 during the legislative period.
Parties prioritise youth and gender, but overlook seniors
Rosnes noted that Norwegian parties have made commendable progress in promoting youth candidates and ensuring gender balance. However, the systematic exclusion of older candidates raises questions about the inclusiveness of the political system.
“Elderly people have extensive experience and a holistic view of society. They are not only concerned with trending issues but are deeply engaged in politics, particularly in matters like health care, elder care, and pensions,” Rosnes wrote.
He criticised the practice of assigning older candidates to what he calls “honorary spots” on electoral lists—positions that carry no real chance of election. He called on party strategists to move beyond symbolic gestures and offer senior citizens genuine influence.
At the same time, some observers point out that younger generations—who will live longest with the consequences of today’s political decisions—often struggle to gain political space. While senior citizens typically benefit from stronger welfare protections and pension schemes, younger voters face mounting economic and environmental challenges. In this light, a more youth-oriented Storting may reflect a broader effort to give voice to those whose futures are most at stake.
A warning for party strategists
Rosnes concluded by stressing that the imbalance in representation could backfire politically. The number of voters over 65 significantly surpasses those under 30, a fact that, in his view, should prompt parties to reconsider their strategies.
His critique adds to a growing debate in Norway and across Europe about how to fairly represent ageing populations in democratic institutions, as societies across the continent grapple with demographic shifts and generational equity.
