Voter uncertainty rises among young Norwegians ahead of 2025 parliamentary and Sámi elections

Alva Margrethe Samuelsen, an 18-year-old from Norway, is preparing to cast her vote for the first time in the upcoming parliamentary and Sámi parliamentary elections in September 2025. While she is eager to participate, Alva expresses difficulty in finding clear information about candidates and their positions, stating she requires more details before making a decision. This sentiment is echoed by a significant portion of the population; a recent survey indicates that 62% of respondents are undecided about leading candidates for the Sámi Parliament.

In contrast to the Sámi Parliament scenario, voters in the Norwegian parliamentary elections show a slightly different trend. When asked to choose between current Prime Minister Erna Solberg and challenger Jonas Gahr Støre, over 20% of people expressed uncertainty about which candidate is more suitable for the role.

Prominent figures in Sámi political parties are keen to gain clarity and support from voters. Silje Karine Muotka, a candidate for the Sámi Parliament, appreciates the trust shown in her, while Toril Bakken Kåven from the Northern Calotte People echoes a desire for a focus on politics rather than personalities. Svein Atle Somby from the Labour Party notes the need for improvement in promoting their policies to increase visibility and support.

In the lead-up to the elections, concerns regarding Sámi language preservation and education are prominent among young voters like Alva. She highlights the significance of these issues, driven by personal experience with the Sámi language and its importance in her family. Her reflection suggests that while she currently leans toward supporting the NSR party, her final choice will depend on further exploration of what each party represents as the election approaches.