ABSTRACT
In spite of the neo-liberal offensive, trade unions and social movements in Norway have experienced some successes over the last years. New and untraditional alliances have been built. New working methods have been developed. Some important victories have been achieved. The new alliances have even been able to push the social democratic party to the left in some important areas. In 2005, these alliances replaced the most neo-liberal, right wing government ever in Norway with a centre-left government, involving the Labour Party, the Centre Party1 and the Socialist Left Party. The political platform of this coalition government is probably the most progressive in Europe today.2 Under the current unfavourable balance of power in society, this represents important achievements. It can therefore be useful to take a closer look at what has taken place, what has been achieved, and what can be learnt from the concrete experiences – be they good or bad.
