Grunnloven

Grunnloven, the Constitution of Norway, is the foundational legal document of the Norwegian realm. It was adopted on 17 May 1814 at Eidsvoll by a representative assembly and established Norway as a constitutional state. During its early decades it also framed a personal union with Sweden, which lasted until 1905 when Norway gained full independence.

The constitution sets out a system of separated powers. Executive power is exercised by the King in Council, i.e., the government, while legislative power is vested in the Storting, the parliamentary body. The judiciary operates independently. A key feature is that the government must retain the confidence of the Storting, a principle that evolved into modern parliamentary government. The Grunnloven also enshrines fundamental rights and liberties, including freedom of religion, expression, and association, freedom of the press, protection of property, and guarantees of due process and a fair trial.

Throughout its history the constitution has been amended several times to reflect evolving democracy and rights. A turning point came in 1884 with the establishment of ministerial responsibility and a parliamentary system. In 1905 Norway dissolved its union with Sweden and became fully sovereign. The constitution was later expanded to broaden suffrage, including extended voting rights to women in the early 20th century, and subsequent amendments have continued to adapt rights and institutions to contemporary governance.

Today Grunnloven remains the supreme legal authority in Norway. It is celebrated on May 17, Constitution Day, and its text exists in modern Norwegian, with continued influence on the country’s legal and political framework.