Alternative (Hverland)
Alternative Kostgjafi | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Leader | Kristján Þór Júlíusson |
| Founded | 2015 |
| Ideology | Green liberalism |
| Political position | Big tent |
| Fjallting seats | 7 / 101 |
| Municipality seats | 23 / 475 |
| Sámedagi seats | 0 / 31 |
| Website | |
| alt.hv | |
The Alternative (Hverlandic: Kostgjafi) is a social liberal and green liberal political party in Hverland, founded in 2015. Headed by leader Kristján Þór Júlíusson, the party currently holds 7 out of 101 seats in the Fjallting and 23 of 475 seats in local municipalities. The party aims to blend the vast welfare state of the Social Democratic Party and the Visionary Party with the pro-business agenda and competitive free market advocated by the Liberals and the Conservative Nationals. A significant goal of the party is to make Hverland carbon-neutral by 2030.
History
Alternative was founded in the aftermath of a series of public debates and town hall meetings that were held in Hverhöfn in 2015. These meetings were initially organized by a group of young activists, economists, and environmentalists who felt that the existing political landscape failed to address the increasingly interconnected challenges of social justice, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Led by Kristján Þór Júlíusson, a charismatic and forward-thinking individual, the party was officially registered and quickly gained a following.
At the heart of its founding was the notion that traditional political divisions were becoming obsolete and that a "third way" was needed. This idea was particularly compelling to young people and professionals who found themselves politically homeless. They were looking for a party that could simultaneously advocate for a strong welfare system, a robust economy, and a sustainable future. The party also drew in support from academic circles, where the call for evidence-based policy and interdisciplinary solutions found a natural home.
Immigration and the party
Soon after its inception, the party leaders recognized the importance of integrating Hverland's growing immigrant population into the political landscape. They identified that many immigrants, especially from Poland, Ukraine, the Baltic countries, and other European diaspora, were economically active but politically marginalized.
In 2016, the Alternative party launched the "Voices United" initiative, aimed at understanding the unique challenges faced by these communities. They conducted extensive interviews and organized focus groups with immigrants to understand their aspirations, concerns, and needs better. The findings were then integrated into the party's broader policy platform, giving immigrants not just a voice, but also a stake in shaping Hverland's future. The initiative was widely covered by media and drew applause from advocacy groups for immigrant rights.
By 2018, the Alternative party had developed a comprehensive immigration and integration policy that included language and cultural assimilation programs, advocacy for fair employment practices, and pathways for civic engagement for immigrants.
As a result, the party has succeeded in attracting a significant portion of the immigrant vote, solidifying its reputation as an inclusive political force that is attuned to the complexities of a modern, diverse society.
This unique blend of historical factors and initiatives explains why Alternative has been successful in attracting a broad spectrum of voters, including immigrants who see the party as a political home that genuinely understands and represents their interests.
Ideology
Alternative operates on the principles of social liberalism and green liberalism. It sees itself as a bridge between the left's welfare-oriented policies and the right's pro-business approach. This "best of both worlds" philosophy has become the party's trademark. Alongside this economic vision, the party also strongly prioritizes environmental sustainability and aims to establish Hverland as a carbon-neutral nation by 2030.
Policy positions
Key policy positions of Alternative include:
- Economic policy: Alternative's economic policy is characterized by a blend of welfare state support and business-friendly initiatives. The party believes in maintaining the vast welfare state of Hverland, ensuring social safety and justice. Simultaneously, it supports pro-business measures and advocates for a competitive free market to stimulate economic growth and innovation.
- Environmental policy: The party champions green liberalism and is committed to making Hverland carbon-neutral by 2030. To achieve this, the party supports policies to encourage the use of renewable energy, promote sustainable industry practices, and incentivize green living among citizens.
- Social liberalism: Socially, the party stands for a liberal society that respects individual rights and freedoms. It promotes tolerance, equality, and social justice, advocating for policies that protect these values.
Voter base
The Alternative party attracts a broad voter base that values both economic prosperity and social and environmental responsibility. This includes environmentally conscious voters, socially liberal individuals, and those who favour a balanced approach to economic policy that supports both welfare and business interests.
Electoral results
Fjallting
| Election | Votes | % | Seats | ± | Government |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 5 / 101
|
New | Opposition | ||
| 2018 | 3,925 | 4.59 | 6 / 101
|
 1
|
Opposition |
| 2022 | 5,827 | 6.60 | 7 / 101
|
1
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Opposition |
President
| Election year | Candidate | First round | Second round | Result | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Votes | % | Rank | Votes | % | Rank | |||
| 2015 | Did not participate | |||||||
| 2021 | Did not participate | |||||||