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The history of Nordic Co-operation

The common Nordic initiatives in recent times have been called "Nordic zigzag" by some people. Going back 1000 years the fluctuations between periods of war and periods of solidarity were even greater. However, in the 20th and 21st centuries we observe a continual greater co-operation occurring between the countries.
Before 1952
Throughout history, wars and alliances have characterised relationships between the Nordic countries.
1953–1971
Many plans and initiatives, little progress.
1972–1989
Nordic, European and global co-operation.
After 1989
Regional support and global vision in a new world order
Literature and links
Further information on the history of the Nordic Council of Ministers.
Related content
  • History of the Nordic region

    This history of the Nordic region from the Viking times to the present.
  • History of the Nordic Council of Ministers

    The Nordic Council of Ministers was established in 1971 after an attempt at Nordic economic co-operation, the so-called Nordek, had failed the year before. Denmark and Norway voted on membership of the EC in 1972, and one of the goals of the Nordic Council of Ministers was to maintain Nordic co-operation, in the event that some of the Nordic countries also became EC members.
  • The history of the Nordic Council

    After the Second World War the politicians of the time strived for stronger international co-operation. This was the time when the United Nations was established, the Council of Europe created and the first steps were taken towards the EU. At the same time there were many discussions on much closer Nordic co-operation. As a result the Nordic Council was formed in 1952.

 

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