Nearly 300,000 Norwegians have already voted early ahead of the parliamentary election scheduled for 8 September, according to the Norwegian Directorate of Elections (Valgdirektoratet). The figure represents a larger share of the electorate compared to the same period in 2021.
Record increase in advance voting turnout
As of 18 August, a total of 291,003 advance and early votes had been registered, equivalent to 7.17% of eligible voters. In comparison, after the same number of days in 2021, 215,346 votes had been cast, representing 5.54% of the electorate. The data suggests a marked increase in voter engagement during the first week of early voting.
Daily participation patterns
On weekdays, more than 40,000 Norwegians have voted each day since early voting began on 11 August, while turnout over the weekend has been significantly lower. The highest daily count so far was recorded on 18 August, when nearly 50,000 votes were submitted.
Strong turnout in Oslo and Kristiansund
Municipal figures reveal considerable variation across the country. Kristiansund leads with 13.9% of registered voters already casting their ballots. In Oslo, the country’s largest municipality, more than 52,000 votes have been recorded, representing 10.2% of the city’s electorate and placing the capital above the national average.
Local contrasts across Norway
While large municipalities report significant participation, smaller communities show slower starts. On Utsira, Norway’s smallest municipality, no early votes had been registered by 18 August, as the local polling station was only scheduled to open later in the week.
Early voting period and accessibility
The advance voting period in Norway runs until 5 September, with election day following on 8 September. Voters who are unable to attend in person due to illness or disability may apply to cast their ballots from home, provided they notify their municipality by 4 September.
