Norway's Citizens' Assembly: Shaping the Future of Wealth

In Norway, 40,000 randomly chosen citizens will receive an invitation to join the Future Panel to discuss the future of the country's $1.8 trillion sovereign wealth fund. This citizens' assembly aims to gather diverse opinions on the fund, encouraging democratic participation and considering future generations.

In a bid to democratize decision-making about its massive sovereign wealth, Norway is turning to its citizens. Next month, 40,000 randomly selected Norwegians will receive invitations to join discussions on the country's $1.8 trillion Government Pension Fund Global, often called the oil fund.

This initiative, dubbed the Future Panel, will distill this group down to 66 panelists representing a cross-section of society. The panel will engage in numerous discussions to advise on the fund's future, which is also painting a picture of the generational consideration in financial strategies.

As the project proceeds until April 2025, the unique aspect lies in its inclusive approach, leveraging voices usually unheard in public debates, with insights potentially influencing the political discourses ahead of the upcoming parliamentary election.

(With inputs from agencies.)