Elite Support for the Norwegian Version of the Nordic Welfare State Model

Abstract

In general, there is (still) considerable support for the Norwegian welfare-state model. This is manifested by the widespread backing of more, or at least the same level, of spending on various important welfare programmes. Such support is also demonstrated by the extensive endorsement of the collaborative system of industrial relations. It is a testimony to a pervasive recognition of the benefits of this system, benefits which have been demonstrated by several leading Norwegian economists. The analyses presented above indicate, however, that today many members of the elite are more reserved as far as continued efforts to reduce economic disparities are concerned than their colleagues were in 2000. Reservations are greatest within the business and the military elite, and among politicians belonging to the two right-wing parties. As could be expected, the analyses showed that wealthy elite individuals also oppose continued economic redistribution. Immigration has become a heated and dividing issue in Norwegian politics. The consequences of which for support for the Norwegian model are, as yet, unclear. It is noticeable that this issue creates more distance between elites and citizens than other central issues. The opposition among citizens towards a more lenient immigration policy has carried the right-wing Progress Party to power. The Progress Party continues to play the immigration card systematically in order to win more votes. Accordingly, the immigration issue will probably continue to influence Norwegian politics.