The word storting is the Norwegian term for a legislative assembly. Its pronunciation is /ˈstɔːtɪŋ/, with the stress on the first syllable. The 's' sounds like the 's' in 'see', the 't' sounds like the 't' in 'tall', the 'o' sounds like the 'o' in 'dog', the 'r' is rolled, the 'i' sounds like the 'i' in 'bit', the 'n' sounds like the 'n' in 'no', and the 'g' sounds like the 'ng' in 'sing'. Therefore, storting is spelled as s-t-o-r-t-i-n-g in English.
Storting is the national parliament of Norway, serving as the supreme legislative body in the country. Derived from the Norwegian word "stortinget," meaning "the great assembly," it consists of elected representatives who are responsible for enacting new laws, amending existing ones, and making crucial decisions regarding the governance of Norway. The Storting holds significant power in the Norwegian political system, ensuring that the government operates in accordance with democratic principles.
Comprising 169 members, the Storting is elected through a proportional representation system for a four-year term. Its primary responsibilities include passing the national budget, conducting debates on proposed legislation, overseeing the executive branch's activities, and representing the interests and concerns of the Norwegian people. The Storting also exercises control over the government's financial matters, approving taxes, expenditures, and loans.
Furthermore, the Storting plays a crucial role in the election of the Norwegian Prime Minister. Following each parliamentary election, the Storting elects the head of government based on the majority's preference. This democratic process allows the Storting to influence the direction and policies of the executive branch.
Overall, the Storting embodies the principles of democratic governance in Norway, functioning as the cornerstone of the country's political system. Its members, elected by the Norwegian people, have the constitutional duty to serve as representatives and make decisions in the best interests of the nation and its citizens.
The word "storting" comes from the Old Norse word "stór", meaning "great" or "big", and "thing", meaning "assembly". In Old Norse, "storting" referred to a general assembly of free men in Viking Age Scandinavia where important decisions were made. Over time, the meaning of "storting" evolved to specifically refer to the modern-day Norwegian parliament, which is the supreme legislature of Norway.