Voting is underway across Norway today, September 8, 2025, for the Norwegian Sámi parliamentary election. Eligible voters from the Sámi community will elect all 39 members of the Sámi Parliament, known as the Sámediggi. The election, which coincides with Norway’s national parliamentary election, will determine the political leadership and direction for the Sámi representative body for the next four years.

The current governing coalition, led by president Silje Karine Muotka of the Norwegian Sámi Association (NSR), faces a critical test. Following the 2021 election, the NSR secured a plurality of 16 seats and formed a government with the Centre Party and the Ávjovári Moving Sámi List. This year's results will reveal if that alliance maintains its hold or if a new political dynamic will emerge.

The contest for the presidency features several prominent figures. The NSR has nominated incumbent Silje Karine Muotka for another term. She is challenged by Vibeke Larsen, a former president who served from 2016 to 2017, representing Nordkalottfolket. The Labour Party has also put forward its own candidate, Svein Atle Somby, for the leadership position.

The election is conducted using a system of party-list proportional representation across seven multi-member constituencies. All citizens aged 18 or over who were registered on the Sámi electoral roll by the June 30, 2025, deadline are eligible to cast their vote.

Adding a layer of tension to this year's contest, Norway’s domestic intelligence agency, the PST, has issued a public warning about the potential for foreign interference. The agency specifically noted concerns about Russian attempts to influence the outcomes of both the national and the Sámi parliamentary elections.

As polls remain open, the focus is on voter turnout and the performance of the key political parties. The results, which are expected in the coming days, will be closely watched as they will shape the legislative priorities and advocacy for Sámi rights and culture in Norway for the upcoming term.