Theme
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Sounding the alarm for Nordic languages
Expectations are high for the updated declaration on a Nordic language policy which is now being implemented. New technology and digitalisation are included as tools to strengthen the smaller languages and interest in language. But will young people rather use English?
8 minutes
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The Øresund Bridge: 25 years in a region that creates dynamics
The Nordic region’s largest labour market this year celebrates 25 years of a fixed link between two countries, in a border region without its own legislation. Instead, two countries must coordinate and cooperate based on their respective laws and regulations.
13 minutes
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The Border Service: It should be easy to get it right
For nearly 30 years, Grensetjänsten Norge–Sverige in Morokulien has provided help for people and businesses crossing the border. Their motto: “It should be easy to get it right”.
5 minutes
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More active border obstacle role for Nordic cooperation ministers
A new six-year programme aims to strengthen the work for freedom of movement in the Nordic region. The goal is to remove more border obstacles, strengthen mobility and secure clearer political ownership when working to improve free movement.
5 minutes
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Who will look after Sweden’s growing elderly population as birth rates fall?
Between 2013 and 2023, the number of people in Sweden aged 25 to 60 rose by 455,000. By 2033, that number is expected to grow by a further 13,000 people. There is a similar development in the rest of the Nordics and the EU, which for many municipalities means severe labour shortages.
7 minutes
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How Nordic local authorities can create social sustainability
A new book from Kristin Reichborn-Kjenner describes how municipalities can create social sustainability in practice. “Sustainability is more than climate, Teslas and battery factories,” says the research professor from the Work Research Institute at OsloMet.
4 minutes
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Little, strong Utsira – life in Norway’s smallest municipality
When a young Julie Faldt Faurholt moved from Denmark’s smallest municipality – the island of Læsø – she was determined she would never live in such a small place again. But the island she lives on now is far smaller. With 217 people, Utsira is Norway’s smallest municipality.
15 minutes
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Rich in iron ore, poor in inhabitants
In Pajala in Northern Sweden, the local authority is grateful for the mine but also struggles to maintain and recruit workers.
9 minutes
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Municipal Denmark to unite freedom and control
“Setting free” is the topic of the day in Danish municipal and national politics. It is seen as a possible key to delivering welfare services to citizens despite fewer resources and labour shortages. Helsingør municipality has had good experiences, but the upcoming local elections could throw a spanner in the works.
7 minutes
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Finland’s April elections a test for local power structure
Finland holds municipal elections in April. At the same time, there are council elections in 21 so-called wellbeing services counties. After the healthcare reform, they will be responsible for social and healthcare services. But interest in running as a candidate and in voting seems to be falling. Perhaps due to a worsening economy and reduced…
9 minutes