So far, the Nordic countries have been amongst those to cope best in increasingly fierce global competition. Despite the fact that globalisation was long seen as a threat to a strong welfare state, opinion-formers are now turning their attention to the Nordic countries and asking whether the opposite is actually the case. Is it perhaps the Nordic model, with its adequate welfare schemes, high levels of education, strong trade unions and an active labour market policy, which generates success? The question seems set to run and run.

Editor Berit Kvam points out the large number of warning signs. Positive relations between unions and employers are dependent on dialogue. Dialogue is the key to the Nordic ability to readjust rapidly whenever necessary. What will become of dialogue when business becomes internationalised and companies are just as large abroad as they are at home, or when workers' rights are put to the test? Who will be allowed access to work and welfare when migration increases?

Never before has the world economy gone through such major changes so quickly, according to the experts. "Are the Nordic countries equipped to cope with the changes?" Kvam asks.