In an internal letter, 30 members of Norway's Socialist Left Party (SV) have expressed deep concern about a 'toxic atmosphere' permeating the party, which they believe is stifling engagement and morale. The letter calls on party leaders to take action against open hostility among members, particularly in light of recent events surrounding the party's stance on energy allocations. This escalation follows SV's critical re-evaluation of its support for a proposal regarding the release of energy resources reserved for Equinor's facility in Melkøya, Hammerfest.

The recent shift in SV's policy occurred when party leaders moved from potentially supporting a proposal from the Red Party (Rødt) to release the energy for broader use, to ultimately siding with Equinor's interests. This change has led to significant discontent within the ranks, with the internal correspondence revealing that members feel marginalized and adversarial in their environment. This situation highlights ongoing tensions within the party as it navigates its role in energy politics amidst broader national concerns about sustainability and management of resources.

The implications of this discord could extend beyond internal party dynamics, potentially affecting public perception and the party's effectiveness in future coalitions or elections. As members call for unity and constructive dialogue, the party leadership faces the challenge of reconciling differing opinions while maintaining its core principles in a rapidly changing political landscape in Norway.