What happens when everyday citizens—not politicians or economists—are asked how a wealthy nation should shape the future for its people, the planet, and generations to come?

In an unprecedented democratic experiment, 56 ordinary Norwegians came together to tackle an extraordinary question: How can Norway use its vast national wealth for the good of the world, its people, and future generations? Their answers have given form to the Citizens’ Assembly for Norway’s Future, a report that is both deeply ambitious and refreshingly grounded. The recommendations are organised into five themes and call for a major shift in how Norway approaches its wealth and global responsibilities. 

The first theme focuses on the Oil Fund, which the Assembly believes should not exist solely to generate maximum returns. Instead, they propose earmarking its profits for investments that benefit both current and future generations. This includes areas like education, healthcare, infrastructure, and green innovation. Additionally, they suggest a fixed percentage of the fund should be allocated to supporting sustainable development in poorer countries. It is also important to establish clearer guidelines for the use of green energy during crises. All this may ensure faster progress towards investing at least 2% in renewable energy.

The second theme addresses the need to strengthen democracy, trust, and critical thinking. This could be done by embedding citizens’ assemblies into the parliamentary decision-making process and ensuring that education in schools places more of an emphasis on political literacy and critical thinking skills. The report also recommends establishing an independent Future Generations Commissioner and enabling public voting on key national decisions.

Under the third theme, which is global responsibility and cooperation, citizens urge Norway to invest more in projects that build lasting value abroad, particularly in education, health, and infrastructure. They advocate for deeper involvement in global health research and pandemic prevention, greater investment in international climate initiatives, and the formation of ethical and strategic global alliances.

The fourth theme highlights the need to prioritise sustainability. The Assembly recommends that Parliament significantly increase public spending on renewable energy and green innovation, while also encouraging a cultural shift toward lower consumption, circular economies, and greater awareness of personal and national climate footprints.

Finally, the fifth theme centres on strengthening Norway itself. Citizens believe that improving infrastructure, supporting research and innovation, and regulating AI responsibly are central to building a more resilient country. They also believe in stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors and bolstering national security.

Altogether, these recommendations represent a citizen-led blueprint for a fairer, more sustainable, and more globally responsible Norway. They reflect not only a broad public consensus but a deep commitment to long-term thinking and ethical leadership.

This report will be of interest to policymakers, civil society organisations, educators, researchers in democratic innovation, and anyone invested in the future of wealth, sustainability, and democracy.