10 nordic politicians 2 10 nordic politicians 10 nordic politicians

10 nordic politicians 3 10 Nordic Politicians 2011

ANP 2011:705 © Nordic Council of Ministers, Copenhagen 2011 ISBN: 978-92-893-2214-0 Editors: Silje Bergum Kinsten, Mats Holmström, Michael Funch, Sara Djupsund, Jesper Schou-Knudsen Layout: Jette Koefoed/norden.org Translator: Tam McTurk Photos: p. 2 Karin Beate Nøsterud p. 6,8,9 Johannes Jansson p. 11 Gunnar Svanberg p. 13,14 Johannes Jansson p. 16,17 Karin Beate Nøsterud p. 19 Lillian og Lena www.krf.no p. 20,21 Magnus Fröderberg p. 22 Johannes Jansson & Magnus Fröderberg p. 27 Leiff Josefsen p. 28,29 Silje Bergum Kinsten p. 30 Johannes Jansson p. 33 Karin Beate Nøsterud p. 35 Cata Portin p. 36,37 Image Select p. 38 Magnus Fröderberg p. 41,43 Karin Beate Nøsterud

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Nordic Council of Ministers Nordic co-operation Ved Stranden 18 Nordic co-operation is one of the world’s most exten- DK-1061 Copenhagen K sive forms of regional collaboration, involving Denmark, Phone (+45) 3396 0200 Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and three autonomous areas: the Faroe Islands, Greenland, and Åland.

Nordic Council Nordic co-operation has firm traditions in politics, the Ved Stranden 18 economy, and culture. It plays an important role in Euro- DK-1061 Copenhagen K pean and international collaboration, and aims at creating Phone (+45) 3396 0400 a strong Nordic community in a strong Europe.

Nordic co-operation seeks to safeguard Nordic and regional interests and principles in the global community. Common Nordic values help the region solidify its position as one of the world’s most innovative and competitive. www.norden.org interviews with 10 politicians about the issues and challenges faced by nordic co-operation in 2010

6 jonas gahr støre Towards closer co-operation on foreign and defence affairs

10 helgi hjörvar The future is European

14 karen ellemann Excellent raw material

18 dagfinn høybråten More power to the politicians

22 sonja mandt and jessica polfjärd Stop the cheats – database to enhance patient safety

26 palle christiansen Greenland: The Nordic frontline in the Arctic

30 line barfod Taking to the barricades to fight slavery

34 ville niinistö No more deportation of Nordic citizens

38 maud olofsson Pushing for a greener Europe

10 nordic politicians 5 6 10 nordic politicians 1 towards closer co-operation on foreign and defence affairs

JonasGahr Støre “closer co-operation on foreign and security issues is a more viable option than ever before,” says jonas gahr støre, minister of foreign affairs in norway.

jonas gahr støre together, the nordic countries realities of power in today’s world has been norwegian are among the world’s ten biggest than the G7/G8, and also reflects the minister of foreign economies and among the largest need for effective global collaboration affairs since 2005. contributors to the UN and other on questions that cannot be solved by his previous posi- international organisations. With this a single country or by a few countries tions include secre- in mind, Støre argues that the Nordic working in concert. But Norway has a tary general of the countries should have a seat at the number of concerns about the G20’s norwegian red cross G20, a proposal that has struck a organisation and legitimacy. We think and chief of staff chord with many other politicians in it needs to be opened up to make it in the world health the Region. more representative, so we’ve sug- organisation. “Let’s be clear: We are not averse gested a seat for the Nordic–Baltic to the G20. It played a crucial role countries, as well as seats for other party: the norwegian in stopping the financial crisis from countries and regions.” labour party (a) developing into a full-scale world- The Norwegian foreign minister wide economic depression. The G20 believes that the Region would benefit is a more accurate reflection of the from direct access to G20 meetings. 1 10 nordic politicians 7 “We already have a strong tradition of joint representation, co-operation and co-ordination in the UN and other organisations – not least, the co-operation between first the Nordic, then the Nordic and Baltic countries in the IMF, World Bank and regional development banks.”

“Combined with admitting other Nordic and Baltic countries in the IMF, “The various Nordic foreign ministries countries, Nordic membership would World Bank and regional development are now systematically following up on also benefit the G20, making it more banks. Having said that, a Nordic– the proposals1 contained in the report. legitimate and facilitating more Baltic seat on the G20 is not very As far as partnership on civil and mili- effective global governance.” realistic. It’s more realistic to envisage tary crisis management is concerned, co-operation between the Nordic and we are working towards joint training strong tradition of Baltic countries and other smaller Eu- for international deployments. In terms nordic representation ropean countries that are not currently of digital security, we’ve agreed to set According to Støre, if a Nordic or represented in the G20 either. We also up a joint communication and compe- Nordic–Baltic seat on the G20 were have to make sure that the G20 doesn’t tence network to protect against digital to become a reality, it would not place overshadow legitimate, representative attacks. With regard to closer co-op- extra demands on Nordic co-operation. international organisations.” eration between our foreign services, “We already have a strong tradition Støre would also like to see closer the foundations are being laid for more of joint representation, co-operation Nordic co-operation on foreign and joint embassies and for diplomats to and co-ordination in the UN and other defence policy, for which the follow- be stationed in other Nordic embas- organisations – not least, the co-opera- up work on the Stoltenberg Report sies. Guidelines are being drawn up tion between first the Nordic, then the might serve as a prelude. for honorary joint consulates, and joint

8 10 nordic politicians procedures are being devised for ap- not been shelved, and remains up Nordic Federation is particularly plications for travel documents and for for debate. plausible. 1 the registration of Nordic citizens living “The proposal is interesting “It isn’t realistic. We might be abroad.” because it challenges our concept of advocating Nordic representation on The minister also points out the what Nordic solidarity really entails. the G20, in the UN and in the EU, but progress being made in defence co- I expect further discussion on this in we should never lose sight of the fact operation in terms of training, plan- the spring. It is beyond any doubt that that there has never been, and never ning and procurement. the Region faces defence challenges will be, a successful Nordic union. “In some areas, e.g. collaboration that call for reorientation and greater Having said that, I would venture that on air exercises, co-operation has al- solidarity. But at the same time, any we are better placed than ever to work ready extended beyond the proposals declaration of Nordic solidarity must more closely together on foreign and in the Stoltenberg Report.” be realistic, feasible and not encroach defence policy, as illustrated by the upon EU or NATO commitments.” follow-up to the Stoltenberg Report.” solidarity declaration However, even if Støre has great still topical faith in closer co-operation on foreign Thorvald Stoltenberg’s proposal for and security issues, he doesn’t think a Nordic declaration of solidarity has Gunnar Wetterberg’s idea of a United

10 nordic politicians 9 the future is european Helgi Hjörvar the appropriate response to trends and events in europe is for the nordic countries to work more closely together, according to helgi hjörvar, president of the nordic council. he cites nordic co-ordination of work on eu matters, the nb8 report and the follow-up to the stoltenberg report as examples of some of the most impor- tant issues on the nordic council agenda in 2010.

helgi hjörvar is an It is 22:00 before Helgi Hjörvar identifies three prominent themes. icelandic mp and emerges from a meeting of the The first is the Council’s work on EU chair of the icelandic Economics and Tax Committee in issues. In June, a Council delegation parliament’s economy the Icelandic parliament, ready to headed by the President travelled to and taxation commit- be interviewed. Given that he only Strasbourg to talk with Nordic MEPs tee. he is a member returned the night before from a about the revision of the EU Con- of the presidium of meeting of the Presidium of the sumer Rights Directive. The message the nordic council. Nordic Council in Finland, and has that emerged from this meeting was he has been a member spent the whole day in meeting after that the Nordic countries need to co- of the council since meeting, you might wonder how the ordinate a joint position in order to 2007 and served as Icelandic Social Democrat has the guarantee strong consumer protec- president in 2010. energy – but he treats it all with good tion in the future. This signalled the humour. He does, however, point out start of the implementation of the party: samfylkingin that his faithful guide dog, Mr. X, is Nordic Council’s EU strategy. (a) exhausted and has gone home. “EU affairs affect all of the Nordic Looking back on the work of countries, and this year the revi- the Nordic Council in 2010, Hjörvar sion of the consumer directive was

10 10 nordic politicians fornavn efternavn

210 nordic politicians 11 “EU affairs affect all of the Nordic countries, and this year the revision of the consumer directive was particularly high on our agenda. Other reasons for working together on this issue were to learn how to maximise our influence at EU level, and to learn how to benefit from Nordic synergies in that context.”

particularly high on our agenda. Other Hjörvar is particularly pleased with Looking to the future, he thinks the reasons for working together on this the progress made in collaboration on Council needs to do more to involve issue were to learn how to maximise sea rescue in the North Atlantic, and the national parliaments in Nordic our influence at EU level, and to learn thinks that the Nordic countries will work. how to benefit from Nordic synergies need to work more closely together “It’s important that our work is in that context.” in order to cope with the increased more deeply embedded in the nation- Hjörvar envisages this way of volume of shipping in new areas. al parliaments. Co-operation among working becoming increasingly impor- The third area he cites is the ef- MPs should also be more closely tant. forts to make the organisation more related to the day-to-day work of the “The Stoltenberg Report on security efficient. national parliaments. That would and foreign affairs has also accounted “Streamlining is designed to make really be a boost to the political co- for a great deal of our attention. It was co-operation even more relevant. We operation. Of that, I am convinced.” followed by the NB8 report, which has want to empower Council members to Asked why co-operation is impor- also been discussed with our Baltic get current debates on the agenda as tant for Iceland, he is in no doubt. colleagues, including at the meeting of soon as possible. For political debate “For all sorts of reasons. But I the Presidium in Finland in December to be as relevant as possible it has to don’t think it has ever been as impor- 2010.” be topical.” tant as it is right now. Iceland finds

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itself in a very special situation – we like the economic storm that broke It might, but I wouldn’t dare set a are rebuilding a society that col- over the world in 2008. date for it.” lapsed. When the crisis struck in Octo- He does not dare predict when ber 2008, we discovered that only the a United Nordic Federation might Nordic Region and our friends in Po- become a reality. land were ready to support us in our “In foreign and defence policy, I hour of need. Not only did the Nordic think we’ll see closer co-operation. Region and Poland offer financial as- Trends and events in Europe re- sistance, but they also provided really quire us to work even more closely high-powered professional expertise together. Individually, the Nordic in the financial and economic sector, countries are relatively small in an which helped us make the right deci- international context – but together sions.” we exert greater influence. We’ve In particular, he thinks it is vital proven that often enough in the past that Iceland learns from the other but may need to do so more often in countries how best to build a welfare years to come. But will this lead to a state strong enough to survive crises joint monarchy and national anthem?

10 nordic politicians 13 14 10 nordic politicians 3 excellent raw material Karen Ellemann nordic co-operation is a multi-faceted concept. safely steering five nordic governments and three autonomous territories through modern political, economic and social waters is no mean feat. the countries take turns at the helm, for one year at a time.

karen ellemann on 1 January 2011, the Presidency question of what was particularly Dan- doubles as den- of Nordic Council of Ministers passed ish about the 2010 Presidency, prefer- mark’s minister of from Denmark to Finland. The Dan- ring to stress continuity and long-term the environment ish Minister for Nordic Co-operation, strategy instead. and minister for Karen Ellemann, sums up 12 intense “Continuity is a positive start- nordic co-operati- months at the political rudder: ing point, and one we can all share. on. she chaired the “The Presidency went as planned. If we want results, we need a clear, nordic council of We had set clear priorities: Globalisa- long-term strategy. Denmark has, of ministers in 2010. tion and freedom of movement. We course, pursued key issues, such as stuck to them and the other countries globalisation, and I think we made our party: venstre backed us.” mark,” explains the minister, before (liberal). “I also think the progress made identifying highlights of the Presi- in restructuring co-operation will dency in 2010. help bring about a more sustainable “We covered a lot of ground, but Region that has greater potential and I’ll stick to two things: The Top-level impact in a globalised world. But we Research Initiative and freedom of have to keep an eye on whether we’re movement. Co-operation was in need doing the right thing as well. Co-opera- of rejuvenation and the globalisation tion needs to keep on providing people initiative certainly did the trick. The and businesses with added value,” Region has plenty of excellent raw ma- Ellemann points out. terial. The population is well educat- Holding the Presidency gives coun- ed, adaptable and enterprising. The tries a chance to shape the political 25 million inhabitants comprise an agenda, but the minister deflects the ideal basis for generating significant

10 nordic politicians 15 synergies. And we must, of course, “We’ve removed a great many obsta- widespread support from politi- take advantage of these. We also have cles to cross-border freedom of move- cians and the people alike, and to work together in areas where we ment in the Region. It is of paramount widespread consensus rarely sells can make a difference in the world.” importance that it’s easy to cross newspapers. The most recent polls Karen Ellemann highlights glo- borders – whether to work, study or show that co-operation still enjoys balisation work as a prime example do business. We’ve worked hard to huge popular support. Fortunately, of how, by pooling resources, it is push this issue higher up the politi- it’s still possible to sell good-news possible to achieve different and cal agenda. But there’s still some way stories.” more visible results than if funding is to go before every obstacle has been “The absence of conflict is also a spread across a large number of small cleared out of the way. Joint solutions Nordic selling point sometimes – so projects that duplicate each other in are the answer, as well as prevent- much is based on our shared val- different countries. ing new obstacles from arising, of ues. One of my favourite examples “The Nordic Top-level Research course.” in relation to visibility and aware- Initiative is the biggest globalisation In 2007 and 2008, the prime ness is the Swan. The eco-label project. It got off to a good start, pro- ministers broke through the Nordic has great legitimacy and is useful viding a boost to joint endeavours to sound barrier with their demand that to consumers. As Minister of the develop new knowledge, technologies co-operation be more visible and Environment as well as Nordic Co- and solutions. It paves the way for have greater impact. What does the operation, I’m really pleased about more of our companies to take a glob- Minister think of the challenges this that. Visible projects create added al lead in climate and environmental has thrown up? value and lay the foundations for technology, which is exactly what will “I keep on saying it – co-operation strong, forward-looking partner- form the basis for sustainable green needs to be capable of rejuvenation. ships,” she adds. growth, job creation, competitiveness We need to evaluate it constantly. In the autumn, the Swedish and export opportunities,” she says. And have the nerve to prioritise so historian and social commentator She also identifies freedom of we make a difference. People need Gunnar Wetterberg sparked fierce movement as a top priority. to see that co-operation works,” she debate with his book United Nordic explains. “Visibility is important – but not always easy! Co-operation enjoys 3

16 10 nordic politicians “I also think the progress made in Federation. The idea of a real political federation attracted a great deal of attention from the media and political restructuring co-operation will help pundits, both in the Region and be- yond. Ellemann’s reaction to the book, and to when the federal state might bring about a more sustainable Region come about, is more cautious: “Debate about co-operation is a that has greater potential and impact good thing. And Wetterberg’s United Nordic Federation provided valu- able input – but I wouldn’t go that far in a globalised world. But we have to myself. Co-operation doesn’t need to be made more formal to make it better. We already have plenty of examples keep an eye on whether we’re doing of how well the Region works! The Top-level Research Initiative. The Swan. the right thing as well. Co-operation Climate co-operation in the UN and EU. But we have to keep asking whether our efforts are directed where they’re needs to keep on providing people needed. Co-operation should be more than meetings and conferences – it should make a difference. But we don’t and businesses with added value.” need a federal state,” she concludes. “For me it’s about seeing the results of the resources we put in. For example, a barrier to freedom of move- ment removed, TRI and the eco-label.” 3

10 nordic politicians 17 more power to Dagfinn Høybråten the politicians

“politicians need to put the politics back into nordic co-operation,” said dagfinn høybråten in autumn 2010. the former president of the nordic council believes that politicians need to assume greater responsibility in order to counteract the depoliticisation and bureaucratisation of the council and dagfinn høybråten is a norwegian mp. he of the council of ministers. was a member of the council of ministers for social and health affairs 1997–2000 and 2001–2005, and it was at the session of the of senior officials to make decisions a member of the pre- Nordic Council 2010 in Reykjavik that and stop political initiatives in their sidium of the nordic Høybråten made a deeply committed tracks.” council 2005–2010. speech about the need for the politi- Høybråten believes that the politi- høybråten is leaving cians involved in Nordic co-operation cians can regain power, primarily by the presidium in 2011, to assume greater responsibility. His ensuring that the Council’s agenda having accepted a po- speech sparked off a debate and led more accurately reflects the issues sition as chair of the to tangible initiatives to make co-oper- that are of greatest concern to ordi- board of gavi, which, ation more effective. nary people. among other things, “At the core of Nordic co-operation “Polls show that people want more supports vaccination is the political interaction within the co-operation, not less. This calls for programmes in poor Council and the Council of Ministers. stronger political commitment. The countries. The political dynamic has, in my view, political processes would benefit from been weakened in favour of wide- being simplified and endowed with party: the norwegian ranging bureaucratisation. Too much greater substance.” christian democratic power has been ceded to committees party (krf)

18 10 nordic politicians 410 nordic politicians 19 4 political responsibility addition to the main annual Session, Høybråten thinks the Council should for politicians the Council should convene special focus on issues that concern people The Norwegian MP does not think that sessions to speed up its work tempo the most. responsibility for the current state of and make it even more topical.” “Freedom of movement is an affairs rests solely with civil servants. “We should take a good look at area in which, unfortunately, work Politicians also have to accept a share the deadlines for responses, make still remains to be done. We enjoy of the blame. it easier to process proposals right increasingly close co-operation on “We have a responsibility to make away and simplify procedures,” foreign and defence policy, including the Council’s own work more attrac- emphasises Høybråten, who has long co-ordination on EU matters where tive and effective. Changing both the experience of co-operation as both the Nordic countries share common President and Vice-President every a minister and an MP. His ideas have interests. We also have an ongoing year means there is a lack of conti- led to a review of the Council’s rules cultural role to play as custodians of nuity in the way the Council is run. of procedure. our shared Nordic heritage, in terms Issues take too long to deal with and As well as enhancing the political of history, culture, language and procedures are too complicated. In impression made by co-operation, social models.”

20 10 nordic politicians “We have a responsibility to make the Council’s own work more attractive and effective. Changing both the President and Vice-President every year means there is a lack of continuity in the way the Council is run. Issues take too long to deal with and procedures are too complicated. In addition to the main annual Session, the Council should convene special sessions to speed up its work tempo and make it even more topical.”

quantifying happiness relationships, health and the environ- collaboration with neighbouring coun- Another issue that Høybråten put on ment more highly than a lot of other tries, or the Region will use its strong the agenda in 2010 is a Nordic target things, including prosperity. It would sense of affinity to provide inspiration for gross domestic national quality of be good if the Nordic countries took a to the rest of Europe and develop a life. He believes that politicians need lead and drew up targets for happi- more human society, co-existing in to know what makes people happy in ness and wellbeing. The nature of harmony with the environment and in order to devise good policy. political debate would be transformed solidarity with the poor of the world.” “This is one of the proposals and choices could be based on differ- However, he does not hold out to bring the political agenda more ent values.” much hope of a United Nordic Federa- closely in line with people’s priori- Høybråten sees two alternatives tion. ties. If we, as politicians, measure for Nordic co-operation a decade “Not in my lifetime, at any rate. I social progress exclusively in terms down the line. think the whole idea will be filed away of economic targets, then we’ll get it “It will either continue its decline in the museum of academic curiosi- all wrong. People value their family, into a solely technical-bureaucratic ties.”

10 nordic politicians 21 Sonja Mandt 5 Jessica Polfjärd

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22 10 nordic politicians stop the cheats! – database to enhance patient safety

sonja mandt mp is it really true that doctors who make (norway), member and deputy chair of serious mistakes and cause suffering in the nordic council welfare committee. one nordic country are able to work in

party: another? is it really true that there is the norwegian labour party (a) no simple way for potential employers to check a health professional’s records? jessica polfjärd mp (sweden), member of regrettably, both are true. the nordic council welfare committee (until and including 2010). from 2011 onwards, chair of the nordic council business and indu- stry committee.

party: “despite serious complaints Region also identify with this – in- the swedish against them in one Nordic country, deed, it is a source of pride. Problems moderate party (m) doctors and other health-care profes- do arise from time to time, however sionals are free to take up new jobs – and when they do, public outrage elsewhere in the Region,” explains usually leads to demands for action Jessica Polfjärd, a Swedish MP (M) by elected politicians. In late 2010, and member of the Nordic Council the Nordic Council Welfare Commit- Welfare Committee. tee submitted a tangible proposal to The outside world often thinks of the Nordic governments to improve the Nordic Region as a place where patient safety in the Region. welfare is in focus and good health A Nordic database will make life care is a top priority. Most of us in the safer for patients.

10 nordic politicians 23 At present, doctors are able to move market as integrated as the Nordic work already underway to another Nordic country and work one, a database is needed to enhance The June 2010 meeting of health min- even if they are guilty of repeated patient safety,” says the mover of the isters resolved to improve the flow of serious mistakes, have received of- proposal, Sonja Mandt MP (A) and information about professionals who ficial warnings and, in some cases, member of the Nordic Council Welfare seek authorisation in other Nordic had their authorisation withdrawn. Committee. countries. There is little control over doctors The database proposal met with Most of the information needed who make serious errors of judge- total agreement – irrespective of for a database is already available ment, and it is the patients who nationality and party groups – when at national level, but co-operation suffer. Exactly how many cases there it was raised at a meeting of the Wel- between countries is poor. The Scan- have been in recent years is difficult fare Committee. The annual Session dinavian countries have now started to determine. of the Nordic Council in late 2010 work on a solution. One example is the Danish doctor decided to forward the proposal to The Welfare Committee would like who had been reported to the Nor­ the governments for implementation. to go a step further, and has pro- wegian Patients’ Injury Compensation The database will include doctors, posed a database of all health-care Board 42 times for providing patients dentists, nurses and other health staff in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, with the wrong treatment. Twenty- workers. Finland and Iceland, as well as the nine cases resulted in compensation “Co-operation between the coun- autonomous territories of Greenland, totalling more than NOK 10 million. tries is not working satisfactorily. the Faroe Islands and Åland. After losing the right to practice as an I don’t think patient safety can be “Nobody who wants to contribute orthopaedist in Norway, the doctor in guaranteed without a database that to welfare in the Region, or to benefit question was employed at a hospital records serious cases such as doctors from it, should be in any doubt that in Sweden. who have their specialist authorisa- it’s a good place to live. We need “It’s totally unacceptable that hu- tion rescinded,” Mandt continues. to be a region that focuses on good man life is put at risk. With a labour healthcare and puts patient safety

24 10 nordic politicians One example is the Danish doctor who had been reported to the Norwegian Patients’ Injury Compensation Board 42 times for providing patients with the wrong treatment. Twenty-nine cases resulted in compensation totalling more than NOK 10 million. After losing the right to practice as an orthopaedist in Norway, the doctor in question was employed at a hospital in Sweden.

at the top of the agenda. A database The focus will be on the patients,” is an example of Nordic synergy in Mandt underlines. practice. It will make us a pioneering The Committee proposal states: region for other countries to follow,” “Access to the database will be Polfjärd stresses. restricted to those who need the information for recruitment purposes. serious errors to be It’s important that it is not public.” recorded “The database will make it easier “We have fantastically skilled health- for employers to assume full respon- care personnel in the Region. But that sibility during the recruiting process, doesn’t mean serious mistakes aren’t and will put patients’ needs first,” made, or that doctors and other staff Mandt explains. are never debarred or have their au- The proposal is backed by the thorisation rescinded,” she continues. Swedish Medical Association and has The Welfare Committee thinks received widespread coverage in the that the database should focus on Swedish media. serious transgressions, i.e. where “It’s hard to argue against some- authorisation has been, or is about thing that enhances patient safety to be, removed, and on individu- and benefits all of the Nordic coun- als who are the subject of multiple tries,” Polfjärd concludes. complaints. It is also calling on the It is now up to the Nordic Council countries to engage in discussions to make sure that the governments about the criteria for inclusion. actually implement the proposal. “Only doctors who commit serious mistakes will be debarred, of course.

10 nordic politicians 25 greenland: the nordic frontline in the arctic

the nordic countries need to become Palle Christiansen more deeply involved in the arctic, according to greenland’s minister for nordic co-operation, palle christiansen, who advocates a joint nordic seat on the arctic council. major power struggles are envisaged as the ice cap melts, and he feels that the nordic countries ought to stick together. however, christiansen does not think that a united nordic federation is just around the corner.

palle christiansen arrives for his In May 2011, Nuuk and its 15,000 palle christiansen interview, at the Greenland Repre- inhabitants will play host to the Arctic doubles as minister sentation in North Atlantic House, Council, as well as the most powerful of finance and Copenhagen, straight from recording a men and women from both the USA minister of nordic television documentary about Green- and Russia. Christiansen, who is also co-operation in land’s response to the climate crisis. the Minister of Finance, would prefer greenland. The world’s largest island may only to see the Nordic countries acting as be home to 55,000 people, but the one at the negotiating table. party: the democrats Greenlanders are accustomed to global “The Nordic countries have a lot (d) attention after many years as witnesses to offer in relation to climate and to the advance of climate change. environment, so we should work far

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10 nordic politicians 27 more closely together. Especially in minds, but much more needs to be prime example of how industrialised the Arctic, where these two themes done.” nations can lead by example and help 7are particularly important,” Christian- Climate change does not just lead the developing countries tackle the sen says. to power struggles. It also provides multiple challenges thrown up by As Minister of Finance, he also plenty of new opportunities, espe- development. Despite lingering scep- stresses the importance of sustain- cially in terms of business. ticism about Denmark as the former ability. However, it is about more than “If, as expected, it becomes colonial power, attitudes to the other sustainability. It is also about power. possible to navigate past Greenland Nordic countries are entirely positive. “In geostrategic terms, Greenland via the north-west and north-east “People have realised that the Nor- is where things are happening. We passage, then we’ll have to come to dic Region is a unified labour market would like to present a united Nordic terms with a whole new reality. We’ll and a common marketplace. For exam- front, but that would require much need to draw on Nordic experience of ple, ten of our IT professionals have closer co-ordination between the shipping in general and safety at sea just found jobs in Skellefteå [a north- countries. It’s great that the Arctic in particular,” he adds. ern Swedish town with a large number features prominently and regularly Christiansen also thinks that in- of multimedia companies – ed.] and on the agenda for the annual Session teraction between Greenland and the that made an impact in Greenland.” of the Nordic Council. It helps focus rest of the Nordic Region represents a Sharing experiences with the Nordic

28 10 nordic politicians “People have realised that the Nordic Region is a unified labour market and a common marketplace. For example, ten of our IT professionals have just found jobs in Skellefteå and that made an

impact in Greenland.”

countries is a cornerstone in Green- hand in hand with the needs of the local closer co-ordination of the most ap- land’s development. population, and we have to make sure propriate issues. A common environ- “We have closely observed Fin- that we train our young people to work mental policy and an Arctic policy, for land’s work on sustainability. And, in the new industries. It’s a credible ap- example. That way, Greenland would directly inspired by Norway, all our proach which – both economically and prove its worth as the Nordic frontline initiatives on oil extraction and min- in human terms – looks to the future,” in the Arctic,” he concludes, with a ing are subject to the most stringent he says, with great conviction. smile. requirements.” According to Christiansen, there is On the whole, Christiansen sees no shame in learning from the other the Nordic approach to sustain- Nordic countries where solutions that ability as one of the Region’s great work have already been found. strengths. Asked if co-operation could ever “The fact is that Greenland may develop into a real political union, he now have to undergo a complete shift hesitates. in the way that we interact with nature “It would take a long time. But a – and this will place great demands on federation is an interesting idea. We sustainability. Development must go could start off on a small scale, with

10 nordic politicians 29 30 10 nordic politicians 8 taking to the barricades to fight slavery

Line Barfod “if we really want to, if we deploy sufficient resources, we can beat the traffickers,” says line barfod, who sees plenty of scope for action by the nordic governments.

line barfod is a line barfod sees trafficking as “I get the impression that many danish mp. she has more than just a huge problem for Council members are concerned been a member of the victims, who are forced to live like about trafficking. We thought we the nordic council slaves, humiliated and regularly sub- had mandated the governments and since 2001, first on jected to violence and rape. She sees they’d just get on with it. But I guess the welfare com- it as a threat to democracy too. we’ll have to push them a bit harder mittee and then “If we look at it from society’s to stop the issue falling off the bot- in the presidium. point of view, the worst problem is tom of the political agenda,” she since 2009, she has that trafficking undermines the very says. chaired the left- foundations of democracy. Allowing socialist green slavery to go on brutalises society. trafficking is modern group in the nordic Allowing organised crime to flourish slavery council. leads to corruption, violence, threats Barfod is currently working on a new and so on.” member’s proposal calling on the party: the red-green At every recent Session of the Nordic, Baltic and Russian authorities alliance (el) Nordic Council, the Danish politician to redouble efforts to combat what from the Red-Green Alliance, who she calls slavery. also chairs the Working Group on “The victims of trafficking aren’t Trafficking for the Baltic Sea Par- free. They don’t get to make deci- liamentary Conference (BSPC), has sions about their own lives. It’s asked the Nordic ministers what they slavery when you don’t get to decide are doing to combat trafficking. for yourself what you’re going to do; 8 10 nordic politicians 31 Trafficking in human beings is a problem that transcends national borders in the Baltic Sea region. Many of those shipped to the Nordic Region come from the Baltic countries, Poland and Russia. According to Barfod, this is precisely why countries need to work together to help the victims.

when somebody threatens you with tries, Poland and Russia. Accord- violence if you demand higher pay or ing to Barfod, this is precisely why say you don’t want to sell your body countries need to work together to any more. When someone takes help the victims. your passport and papers from you, “Trafficking is an international that’s slavery.” crime. People cross borders to get It is often the most vulnerable here. So we need to work together who are exploited in this way. across borders to help the victims need8 to keep on discussing anti-traf- “Sometimes it’s because they’re and stop the trade. Police and social ficking initiatives, keep on demand- poor and just need money, a fact workers need to work together to ing that funds are earmarked, keep others cynically exploit. Often they learn all about the trafficking and on pushing the issue up the political are women or members of ethnic help each other to help the victims. agenda.” minorities. The Roma are among All parties involved must share “Trafficking has slipped down the most vulnerable to trafficking in whatever knowledge is needed to the Nordic agenda and is no longer Europe. Young people in trouble of convict the perpetrators.” included in the programme for the one sort or another are ripe prey for The Working Group on Trafficking Presidency of the Council of Min- traffickers.” in the BSPC will make a tangible pro- isters. If we want to make things Trafficking in human beings is a posal about what the governments happen, we need to push it back up problem that transcends national in the Baltic Sea Region should do to the agenda. It’s important that people borders in the Baltic Sea region. combat trafficking. from different countries come togeth- Many of those shipped to the Nordic “We think it’s important that er and exchange real-life experiences. Region come from the Baltic coun- politicians show commitment – they It’s a big job, especially for a Task

32 10 nordic politicians Force that’s about to lose its funding. the big money, is in the way they themselves wanting to work far more We have to make it quite clear that are exploited by other people.” She closely together. And then we’ll see we need to ringfence the funding. is admanant that huge amounts of many of the current obstacles to free- It’s a small amount, but it has a huge money are made from owning and dom of movement removed, resulting impact.” exploiting slaves. in far closer co-operation in all areas. “One of the things governments In the same way that the Passport a matter of will and could do is to commission business Union arose out of Nordic co-oper- resources analyses of how trafficking actu- ation in the wake of World War II, Unfortunately, trafficking is on the ally works. Then we’d know how I think change will come, and that increase, and Barfod says that few best to deploy the police and make people and governments will reach of those who need help are receiv- the gangs run the real risk of losing out across borders and work together ing it. She stresses that much more money.” far more than they do today.” needs to be done at government and The Danish MP, who is commit- individual level. ted to a wide range of issues, was “To a great extent, it’s a question also involved in the debate about the of earmarking sufficient resources United Nordic Federation in 2010. and making sure that everybody is When will it happen? concerned about the issue and starts “I don’t think we’ll see a federal doing something about it.” state like Germany or America. I According to Barfod, the actual think in a decade or so we’ll see a selling of humans is the least of the new type of federal state that is, first problem: “The biggest problem, and and foremost, based on the people

10 nordic politicians 33 no more deportation of nordic citizens

when it emerged in 2010 that denmark Ville Niinistö is deporting nordic citizens who apply for social-security benefits, the nordic debate became somewhat heated. the reaction of the nordic council may have been strong but denmark has so far refused to change its policy. ville niinistö, chair of the citizens’ and consumer rights committee, has been one of the most vocal critics.

the committee started to look tant that the Nordic Council takes ac- ville niinistö mp into the issue in January 2010, when tion, that it isn’t just a talking-shop. chairs the green the Council of Ministers’ information To be relevant, the Council needs league group in the service, Hello Norden, uncovered to summon the courage to address finnish parliament. several cases of citizens being ex- issues like this.” he also chairs the pelled from other Nordic countries. nordic council citi- “If we’re serious about cross- integration minister fails zens’ and consumer border freedom of movement in the to meet nordic mps rights committee. Region, we need to acknowledge On several occasions in 2010, the that this Danish practice is the Danish integration minister, Birte antithesis of what we’re trying to Rønn Hornbech, turned down the achieve,” says Niinistö. “It’s impor- opportunity to meet the Citizens’

34 10 nordic politicians 9 10 nordic politicians 35 “If we’re serious about cross-border freedom of movement in the Region, we need to acknowledge that this Danish practice is the antithesis of what we’re trying to achieve. It’s important that the Nordic Council takes action, that it isn’t just a talking-shop. To be relevant, the Council needs to summon the courage to address issues like this.”

Committee, an action Niinistö and his to change its practice and discuss the 9The Citizens’ Committee asked law fellow committee members find dif- deportation issue. professor Kirsten Ketscher to look at ficult to comprehend. So far, the Nordic governments the Nordic Convention on Social Secu- “It’s disloyal for one country to have not criticised Denmark, but Nii- rity from a legal point of view. deliberately interpret the social se- nistö does not believe the issue will “The essence of Ketscher’s find- curity convention differently from the go away. ings is that both the convention and other four. It’s extremely difficult to “In principle, the governments EU rules provide more extensive rights understand her reasoning. This isn’t usually don’t hold discussions like than those applied in Denmark,” just a legal issue. It’s a political one. that in public. They prefer to remain explains Niinistö. “She thinks the Euro- It’s a matter of principle. Refusing to on good terms with each other. But pean Court of Justice would rule against engage in debate is unacceptable. the Finnish Presidency of the Council Denmark if one of these cases was tak- That’s why the annual Session of the of Ministers in 2011 fully intends to en to it. Denmark has long wanted to Nordic Council in Reykjavik decided to revisit the issues. The Danish govern- interpret EU rules its own way, despite exert further pressure on the govern- ment must order its authorities to the majority of other member states ments to act on this issue.” change their practice. As I understand adopting a different approach. This in- The Session in Reykjavik in No- it, there isn’t even any need to amend terpretation goes against the principles vember requested that the other gov- legislation, so it should be fairly easy of freedom of movement, both in the ernments exert pressure on Denmark for the government to sort out.” EU and in the Nordic Region.”

36 10 nordic politicians Niinistö reports that he and his you shouldn’t be part of it, because “I can’t see it myself but as politi- colleagues on the Citizens’ Commit- that simply isn’t sustainable in the cians we do sometimes have to tee have received several calls from long run. At the Session of the Nordic address issues that don’t appear to people who have been told in person Council, several Danish members the outside observer to be matters of by Danish officials that they are to be voted for the Citizens’ Committee’s principle. That’s why the deportation deported. proposal, so even at home the Danes debate has been healthy. It illustrates “The actual number of Nordic citi- face opposition to their practice.” that some Nordic issues are matters zens deported from Denmark is prob- Niinistö thinks that the debate and of principle, and that certain indi- ably much higher than the figures we the media coverage of the issue have vidual issues influence general social have received.” heightened interest in Nordic affairs in trends. Wetterberg’s idea is important general, an interest that has, in turn, because it raises the issue of how to one for all and all for one led to more probing questions about generate added value from Nordic Niinistö has previously stated that the nature of Nordic co-operation, e.g. co-operation and how to develop it in Denmark ought to withdraw from the what do Nordic values really mean if the future.” Convention if the government does they are not adhered to in practice? not change its mind. As far as the United Nordic Fed- “It’s really a matter of principle. eration is concerned, Niinistö is not If you don’t respect an agreement, optimistic.

10 nordic politicians 37 38 10 nordic politicians 10 pushing for a greener europe Maud Olofsson the nordic governments firmly believe that a joint electricity market, combining a variety of methods of generation (geothermal power, nuclear power and hydroelectricity) with renewable sources, would have massive synergy effects.

maud olofsson is the nordic states and autono- significantly increase the potential for the swedish busi- mous territories have mapped out the exerting influence on European devel- ness and energy desired direction for work in 2011 that opment.” minister and chair will lead towards a greener Europe. It of the centre party. includes realising the ambition of a greater harmonisation joint electricity market for customers At the 2010 Globalisation Forum, the and consumers. prime ministers pointed out that there “What we are doing is historic. are many ways in which the Nordic As we continue to develop the joint electricity market could be enhanced market, we will show Europe the way that would benefit consumers, the towards the joint European market climate and security of supply. Olofs- envisaged in the EU 2020 strategy. son and her Nordic colleagues have According to Swedish Energy Minister outlined the main themes for the work Maud Olofsson, this work will also to come. All the indications are that

10 nordic politicians 39 2011 will be another breakthrough building new grids. An efficient new year in the transition to a Nordic elec- grid that also increases competition tricity market. will help us avoid the kind of price “The big challenge is to continue to shocks that often accompany the cold projects that help generate green push for harmonisation of the market in winter months.” growth and development. the Region, so the increasing volumes A great deal of work has been “Local authorities are very inter- of sustainable energy are integrated done in recent years to combat emis- ested in new energy projects, so it’s into the grid,” she emphasises. sions of greenhouse gases, including important to develop them at local the introduction of new sources of level and involve local communities. model region energy and efforts to guarantee sup- It’s also a way for ministers to get The Nordic electricity market is often plies. At the same time as demand to know about good local-authority cited as the best in Europe. Exactly has increased, stricter environmental projects,” Olofsson adds. how it gained this reputation may be a requirements have also been intro- matter of opinion, but Olofsson plans duced, oil prices are rising, and there the electricity market to maintain it. is an ever-greater need for more effi- and green growth “The Nordic countries have shown cient use of resources. This applies to The governments also see an ef- courage. Our politicians have mapped households, businesses, manufactur- ficient electricity market as a prereq- out a direction and set ambitious ing and construction. uisite for business development, and targets, and our consumers want green “Instead of national markets, we’ll consider the cross-border market of technology and sustainable growth. have a Nordic consumer market for the future to be a key component in They buy environmentally friendly cars electricity. For the end-user this will the strategy to promote green growth and other products, which generates mean greater competition. We won’t under the auspices of Nordic co- demand. The Nordic business commu- be restricted to buying electricity from operation on globalisation. Develop- nity is at the forefront of meeting this our national provider. End-users will ing clean technology and sharing demand. What is needed now is closer also have greater influence and more knowledge will play important roles collaboration between politicians, opportunities to determine their own in the years to come, providing fur- research, business and consumers.” patterns of consumption,” Olofsson ther impetus to green growth in the stresses. Region. more power to the “The Nordic countries are all consumer extra attention to focused on the major challenge “Electricity prices have rocketed in sparsely populated areas posed by climate change, but we recent winters, resulting in widespread Many sparsely populated Nordic also see it as a golden opportunity criticism. High bills have hit private areas are cut off from the grid. The to create new businesses and new customers hard. Price increases have energy ministers are determined to jobs. Converting to renewable energy also affected industry, forcing some pursue promising technologies such sources is essential to green growth. companies to shut up shop temporar- as the storage of wind energy in water Supplying the Nordic Region with ily. One reason for the high prices is – what is known as “pumped stor- green and renewable energy is one the cold, but higher consumption as age” technology – which may provide of the key tasks, but we also have to the economy continues to recover has green solutions in sparsely populated become more energy efficient and re- also put pressure on prices. A Nordic areas with limited access to the grid. duce carbon dioxide emissions. The grid and more renewable energy are of Nordic partnership is already unique vital importance to the price of electric- local councils next and the Region is poised to make the ity,” Olofsson points out. The Nordic Energy Municipality most of these opportunities,” Olofs- “We need to boost production, in- competition will be run in 2011 to son concludes. crease the volume of renewable energy, reward local councils that commit to improve our national grids and extend and launch ground-breaking energy them beyond territorial borders. We need to look for Nordic synergy when

40 10 nordic politicians “We need to boost production, increase the volume of renewable energy, improve our national grids and extend them beyond territorial borders.” 10

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