The Loneliness Party Got 703 Votes
The Loneliness Party drew attention at its launch but struggled to make an impact during the campaign. The result shows how challenging it is for new parties to break through without a clear organization, broad volunteer support, and financial backing – even with a well-known party leader as Else Koss Furutseth.
September 11, 2025 | NORWEGIAN POLITICS
Image by AI/S&P
During the election campaign, the party has been little visible, even though Else Koss Furuseth is an A-celebrity. According to the party program, the main issues are combating social exclusion, strengthening mental health care, and reducing suicides. “Our country has sky-high numbers on loneliness, exclusion, and mental ill-health. About 700 people take their own lives every year. The number of people on disability benefits due to mental disorders is steadily increasing,” the party writes.
However, a good cause is not enough to win a seat in Parliament. Other small parties, such as the Industry and Business Party (INP), also struggle. They stood for parliamentary election for the second time and received 18,800 votes. By comparison, Venstre got 120,000 votes and two seats in Parliament.
To succeed requires a strong party organization, many volunteers, and extensive financial support. That means stands in cities and towns all over the country. Venstre reports that volunteers knocked on 8,000 doors. The party also received nearly 17 million kroner in support from private individuals, companies, and organizations.
A well-known face alone is therefore not enough. To enter Parliament, much more is required. But where should the line be drawn regarding what ought to be required? Support in the form of volunteerism speaks for itself – but what about financial contributions? Is it acceptable that parties receive funding from private individuals, companies, and organizations?
SOURCES
Kvinner og Klær
It Didn’t Turn Out the Way We HopedPartifinansiering.no
Contributions to Political PartiesValgresultat.no
Election Results 2025
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