Norway's government will seek to avoid EU debate

Subject

The impact of Brexit on Norway.

Significance

Given Norway's close relationship with both the United Kingdom and the EU, the details of any Brexit arrangement could have significant ramifications for the country. Although major changes to its European Economic Area (EEA) agreement with the EU are unlikely, the Norwegian government has adopted a cautious position, for fear of alienating the EU and fuelling growing Eurosceptic sentiment.

Impacts

• The electorate may remain indifferent to the likelihood of Norway being locked out of Europe and its costs.
• Another referendum on Norway's EU membership or its EEA agreement is unlikely in the near future.
• Oslo could play an important informal role in the upcoming Brexit negotiations by functioning as a revolving door for EU and UK delegations.
• Both the United Kingdom and Norway have an incentive to maintain their open trading relationship.