Did you know that the Nordic Region is the world’s 11th largest economy? Or that the Nordic countries have enjoyed free movement of labour for more than 60 years? Here are 10 facts about the Nordic Region and Nordic co-operation

1. Nordic co-operation is one of the oldest and most wide-ranging forms of regional political collaboration, and aspire to be the most integrated region in the world.

2. Nordic Region is the 11th largest economy in the world and have successfully adapted our welfare model to the global economy.

3. Nordic countries have an open labour market. For the last six decades, our people have enjoyed the freedom to work anywhere in the region.

4. Nordic countries accept global responsibility and are committed to international engagement, working with a wide range of international organisations and with our neighbours, e.g. on combating human trafficking and protecting the environment in the Baltic Sea and in the Arctic.

5. Nordic Region prioritises opportunities for children and young people. For example, we fund their studies at higher education institutions throughout region.

6. Nordic countries have thriving architecture, film, food, fashion and music scenes that are of great interest to the whole of the world. We want to enhance our visibility and to support Nordic culture both at home and elsewhere e.g. via the Nordic Council prizes.

7. Nordic countries have fantastic and varied natural scenery, habitats and resources and are good at protecting and exploiting these resources, e.g. for sustainable energy. Nordics are world leaders in innovation, working together to find new, smart and bio-economic solutions.

8. Nordics have one of the most highly educated populations in the world. Ass well as are strongly committed to working together on research both within the region and with international partners, e.g. on combating the consequences of climate change.

9. Nordic Region is one of the most equal regions in the world, and gender equality has made a significant contribution to our economic success. The proportion of women in work is among the highest anywhere, and Nordic men hold the record in paternity leave.

10. Nordic countries top many international ranking and lead the world in transparency, trust, freedom of speech, the environment and happiness.

Source: http://www.norden.org

Photo by Jacek Kulpiński