Stoltenberg's first tenure as Prime Minister (2000–2001) was controversial within his own party, being responsible for reforms and modernisation of the welfare state that included part-privatising several key state-owned services and corporations.
Stoltenbergi poliitika peaministrina (2000–2001) tekitas vaidlusi ka tema enda parteis, sest ta algatas reformid heaoluriigi moderniseerimiseks, sealhulgas mitme tähtsa riigiettevõtte erastamise.