Local democracy and governance are strong in Norwegian society.
We research what can strengthen local democracy in Norwegian municipalities, and how it is affected by inter-municipal cooperation and municipal structural changes.
In recent years, we have also researched other forms of governance, both multi-level and co-governance within the municipal sector, and between the municipal sector and other actors.
We have conducted national surveys of local politicians’ working conditions and measures to strengthen local political ownership and governance of municipal budgets and planning processes.
Recently, we have also completed a study commissioned by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development that examines how municipal mergers have affected voter turnout in Norway.