Norway, Government

Norway is a constitutional monarchy, with a monarch as head of state and a democratically elected government. The constitution was enacted on May 17, 1814. Although this document has been amended many times, the principal features remain unchanged.

The Norwegian monarchy is hereditary and descends only to the oldest child. The monarch’s formal powers are nominal. The monarch makes all governmental appointments on the recommendation of the party or coalition in power, provides a dignified presence on ceremonial occasions, and presides at formal weekly meetings of the government. The monarch may not dissolve the government.