What is the ‘Norwegian model’?
The ‘Norwegian model’ does not refer to a solution tailored to Norway. It is a very complex, heavily institutionalised and rather expensive alternative to EU membership. Norway participates in the EU’s internal market though the European Economic Area, which entails all the freedoms of the EU’s internal market, including the free movement of persons. It also covers numerous complementary policies, among them employment, environment and consumer protection. Norway is bound by all legislation that the EU adopts in these areas, but it does not participate in EU decision-making.
Find out more – read analysis on ten myths about the ‘Norway model’ debunked and on the Norwegian Model more generally.