The Progress Party in Norway is ramping up efforts to challenge the state monopoly on gambling. Speaking at the Norwegian Online Gaming Association’s annual conference, former MP Himanshu Gulati reaffirmed the party’s stance supporting a shift to a licensing model. Calling for a reevaluation of the existing gambling policy, he was critical of what he termed as “entrenched assumptions” regarding gambling harms and revenue generation.
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Progress Party Pushes for Licensing Model
Gulati stressed the need for a new approach in Norwegian gambling policy, linking it directly to cultural politics within the Progress Party. “I have for many years said internally in my party that when there’s a change of government, the licensing model for gambling must be the most important cultural political issue for the Progress Party,” he stated during his keynote address. Still, this isn’t the first time the Progress Party has questioned Norway’s restrictive gambling laws. Past changes they’ve championed include the legalization of cash poker and allowing athletes like boxer Cecilia Brækhus to compete locally. Despite its smaller size in Parliament, the Progress Party has seen some gains—holding 48 seats after the 2025 elections. They argue that a regulated system could replace what they view as outdated restrictions, a perspective not as widely shared by Norway’s dominant political factions. Those factions continue backing the monopoly system operated by Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto.
Comparisons to European Neighbors
Norway’s gambling setup contrasts with neighbors like Finland, which has started accepting online gambling license applications. This move underscores Norway’s increasingly unique position in Western Europe, a region where most countries opt for more open gambling markets. Only Luxembourg and Iceland maintain similar constraints. And norsk Tipping’s recent issues, including oversight failures, have attracted criticism. Yet, major political groups defend the state model as more responsible, arguing it ensures funding for regional sports and other causes. The gambling regulator Lotteritilsynet supports the monopoly framework, pointing to decreasing participation in unauthorized offshore gambling.
Internal Dissent and Emerging Support
It’s not just the Progress Party pushing for a policy shift. Members of the conservative Høyre party, like Tage Pettersen, have expressed personal support for dismantling the monopoly. However, such sentiments haven’t translated into official party policy. the market in Norway suggests a potential policy shift may be up for debate, yet concrete changes remain uncertain. Whether Norway will follow its Nordic neighbors in adopting broader licensing models is still a contentious issue. The next general election could be pivotal in either reinforcing the monopoly or opening Norway’s gambling market further, depending on the composition of the Parliament that emerges.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
