Parliamentary elections were held in Norway on 13 and 14 September 1981. The Labour Party remained the largest party in the Storting, winning 66 of the 155 seats. The Conservative Party made the strongest gains and formed a government on its own. In 1983 a majority coalition government with the Christian People's Party and the Centre Party was established.

Contesting parties

Leadership changes and challenges

Progress Party

Carl I. Hagen was elected chairman on 12 February 1978 after Arve Lønnum declined to seek reelection.

Christian People's Party

After Lars Korvald declined to seek reelection, Kåre Kristiansen was elected chairman on 21 April 1979. Despite not being a candidate, Kjell Magne Bondevik received 44 votes.

Campaign

Slogans

Debates

Results

Voter demographics

Seat distribution