Socialist Left Party Faces Internal Turmoil and Declining Poll Numbers in Norway

Oslo, Norway – The Socialist Left Party (SV) in Norway is grappling with internal divisions and a recent dip in public support, raising questions about its future political standing. Party leader Kirsti Bergstø is urging members to prepare for potentially more unfavorable polling results as the party navigates a period of internal conflict and negative press.

Recent Polls Present Declining Support

On Wednesday, SV reached a new low, falling below the blocking limit in a poll conducted by Alting and ABC News for the first time since 2017. Bergstø acknowledged the possibility of further unfavorable polls in a message to parliamentary representatives and party employees, stating, “It is not unexpected and there may be more such measurements.” Despite the concerning results, she encouraged members to remain positive, emphasizing the importance of focusing on policy and solutions.

Internal Conflicts and Criticism

The party’s internal struggles came to light following a dramatic message from party secretary Audun Herning during a group meeting on February 11th. According to sources, Herning warned that internal disagreements were “about to kill the party,” urging members of the Storting group to take responsibility for addressing the issues. This followed a letter from 30 local SV politicians expressing concerns about a “toxic atmosphere that kills commitment.”

Further exacerbating the internal strife, Rogaland SV recently adopted a statement strongly criticizing the Storting group’s reversal on the Melkøya case. The initial vote favored a proposal from Rødt to open up capacity at Equinor’s Melkøya plant in Hammerfest to other users, but SV’s parliamentary group subsequently reversed its position, allowing the electrification project to continue. Ingrid Fiskaa, of Rogaland SV, argued that the decision contradicted established SV policy and lacked proper internal anchoring.

The statement from Rogaland SV asserted that “the turnaround of the Storting group regarding the electrification of Melkøya is an example of our party democracy not being taken seriously,” and called for an “honest review of the processes that have led to the parliamentary group’s turnaround.” Marte Hammer, SV’s fiscal policy spokesperson, voiced agreement with Fiskaa’s concerns during a visit to the annual meeting.

Bergstø Acknowledges a Vicious Cycle

Kirsti Bergstø recognizes the detrimental cycle of internal disagreements, negative media coverage, and declining poll numbers. She stated, “It is no secret that there has been unrest and disagreements in the party recently. When these are taken up in the media, it leads to bad reports, which in turn lead to bad measurements, more unrest and more bad reports. It’s a vicious cycle, but one that can be broken.”

Bergstø emphasized the need for improved teamwork, policy development, and a consistent focus on key issues like reducing emissions. She expressed confidence in the party’s ability to overcome these challenges.

Looking Ahead

SV has initiated a strategic planning process involving all party members to address the current issues and chart a course forward. The party faces a critical period as it seeks to regain public trust and resolve internal conflicts. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether SV can break the current cycle and reaffirm its position in Norwegian politics.