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Young Councillors in Oslo: New Approaches for Democratic Engagement

Explore the role of young councillors in the City of Oslo, Norway, and their impact on local democracy. Discover the challenges they face, such as avoiding traps and maintaining influence. Learn how to recruit and empower youth in politics, shaping a more inclusive and forward-thinking society.

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Young Councillors in Oslo: New Approaches for Democratic Engagement

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  1. Young councillors, new approaches? Rina Hansen Council Member, City of Oslo, Norway

  2. Introduction to Oslo • Capital of Norway • Population : 550 000 • Total area 454 km2 • City Council of Oslo: 59 Members • Elections every 4th year • 5 standing commitees

  3. Norwegian municipal councils Council members elected in 2003 local elections men women 8,3 % of councillors under 29 60 % between 40 and 60

  4. City Council of Oslo • 15 % under 29 (2003) (of this 2/3 women) • 42 % under 40 (2003) • Average age of councillers :47 (2007) • Some young chairs of committees and party spokespersons • Labour party mayor candidate 2007: 34 years old • But…. Research shows that young councillers do not get or do not want re-election… (1999-2003)

  5. A challenge to democracy • Young people are directly affected by politics and decisions • Education • Transport • Recreation and sports • Housing • Kindergartens • Employment opportunities • Etc • Democracy: representation of all parts of society • New approaches, new experiences, new spheres of interest, more long term thinking?

  6. Challenges (- on how not to be trapped ) The grown-up trap: Copying establishment Dressing, speaking and acting like all other politicians.. - loosing accountability to those you represent. - Loosing yourself The youth trap: Only working on ”youth issues” Too many .. ”as a young person I know…” Undermines you for the future. Being young is good. Being only young will not get you re-elected The authority trap: Becoming an alibi, not actually having influence Other people will be the ones actually deciding Young people are easily deprived of authority

  7. Making it easier.. • Being accountable • Knowing the issues and facts • Remaining in contact with youth • .. but still having responsibilities as the other councillors • Networking • Listen to the what young council members want / need • Who is responsible for having more young councillors? And for making it liveable? • Colleagues • Your self • The party / group chairperson

  8. Why is it fun? • Influencing the outcomes • Putting important issues on the agenda • Being listened to • Putting your knowledge and experience into practise • Becoming spokesperson on issues • Changing the manner of politics • You can make an impact

  9. Recruiting youth • Youth organisations • Youth branches of parties • What demands are put on the candidates? • Training of young councillors • Party culture • Council culture

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