Ideology and Principles of the Progress Party
The Progress Party’s ideology, classical liberalism starts with the democratic assumption that the people are best placed to decide what is best for them.
Authoritarian and top-down governance run counter to the prosperity, harmony and happiness for the individual. People are unique, what fits one, does not necessarily fit all. Therefore, it is our goal to enhance the freedom of the individual.
A liberal view of society is based on the fact that people are different and that this should be respected and valued.
The best way to organize society while preserving the rights of the individual is by granting them the freedom of choice to decide who shall provide the services they can benefit from. Future welfare depends on innovation and the desire to work in order to generate wealth for the individual and society as a whole.
In today ’s society, the creation of wealth is limited by the burden of taxation, business costs and public regulation.
Centralisation must have its limits. Power should be, to the greatest extent possible, transferred from politicians to the people. We will pursue this by letting the people retain more of their tax contributions and by introducing more competition in public services from individuals, firms and voluntary organisations. Our main goal is to reduce taxes, business costs and government intervention for a more free society.
The Progress Party is a party for the people. Its values are that of the Norwegian constitution, Norwegian and western traditions and culture heritage inspired by both Christian and Humanistic values.
Fundamental in our vision of society is the belief in and respect for the individual’s distinctive characteristics and the right to self-determination. The family institution, the right to private ownership and individual freedom are the foundations of society.
We oppose any discrimination based on gender, religion and ethnic origin. All citizens will enjoy the same rights and protection under the Norwegian constitution as the right to ownership, freedom of trade, personal freedom, freedom of expression, religious freedom and freedom of organisation.
A Free Market Economy for Trade and Prosperity
The Progress Party is an advocate of free-market economics. Economic growth is brought about through a solid financial framework and free competition.
Norway has one of the largest public sectors in Europe. This sector must be downsized and made more efficient in order to give the inhabitants better and more affordable services. A portion of the oil revenues should be invested in infrastructure and other necessary common endeavours. The Progress Party stands for the lowest possible levels of taxation, charges and a flatter tax system.
Energy and the Environment
We believe the polluter should pay. Pollution knows no borders; therefore Norway should work towards international accords that limit pollution.
Norwegian businesses should not be penalized with market distorting regulations that limit competitiveness internationally as this will put people’s livelihood at risk.
Political symbolism, empty rhetoric and unrealistic goals will not solve the climate challenge. In this, as in all other fields we must seek cost effective and concrete solutions.
The Progress Party will ensure that Norway remains a leading energy supplier. The energy industry will continue to be an important part of our business sector and a reliable supplier to international markets.
Norway and the World
The Progress Party will protect Norwegian foreign policy interests in security, economy, autonomy and prestige. This will be ensured by supporting free trade, human rights and the building of alliances with democratic countries who share our core values.
Traditional development policy with emphasis on foreign aid has not worked. The Progress Party believes that the key to development is the expansion of market economies, free trade, democracy and human rights.
Norway is not a member of the EU. Regarding the question of possible future membership, the Progress Party will respect the will of the people through a referendum.
Norway will actively participate in the struggle against international terrorism by cooperating internationally and participating in international operations. NATO is the cornerstone in Norway’s security and will remain the basis of its defence policy.
Immigration and Integration
The Progress Party believes in the basic ideal that there should be the freest possible movement of goods, services, capital and labour. However, this assumes that people who take up residence in Norway do not automatically receive welfare rights, which burden the Norwegian tax payer.
The Progress Party stands for a restrictive and responsible immigration policy where taking up recidency is made subject to obligations. Participation in employment, language proficiency and to abide by the laws are central elements in a successful integration policy.
Equality among groups is a decisive factor in preventing conflicts. There is no place for religious extremism and intolerant cultural traditions in a democratic society. This is a natural focus for a classical liberal party.
The Public Health Service and Social Security
The state should be responsible for financing healthcare services for its citizens based on the concept of unit-priced financing, under a system where the money follows the customer. The individual should be able to choose services from private and public provider according to need. Freedom of choice and dignity for the elderly are important issues. We will therefore strive to increase the choices available for the elderly and the quality of the services.
Welfare benefits should be made subject to enforceable conditions in order to deter misuse. A high employment rate is a goal in itself. It should pay to work!
Education and Research
The Progress Party wants an education system of a high international standard. Introducing school choice is an important part of our education policy. Each student should be free to choose between approved private and public schools. This should be organised through unit-priced financing where the money follows the student.
Research is a source of increased knowledge and development in society. Conditions must be put in place so that research and development enjoy the best possible conditions. This is advantageous for society as a whole, and should be brought about in collaboration with trade and industry.
Safety in Everyday Life
It is the individual citizen’s responsibility to comply with the laws as this ensures the opportunity for everyone to live their lives as they wish. The freedom of one must not infringe on that of the other. Today, the punishment for many types of crimes in Norway is so feeble that it offends against the sense of justice of the general population. Therefore, we desire stricter punishments and sentencing in accordance with the letter of the law. Crime should not pay!
