Future skills, democracy, and preparedness in a changing world
Focus on cultural heritage and preparedness
During a visit to the Skagen Museum, the committee saw first-hand how a museum works in practice with regard to security, preparedness, and the protection of cultural heritage. Discussions centred around how museums and heritage sites can remain resilient in a time of rapid digital development, geopolitical uncertainty, and an increasing number of crises.
It also became clear that cultural heritage is about more than preserving historic sites and collections, but that it can also play an active role in strengthening Nordic stories, languages, and creative expression today.
Democracy, participation, and source criticism
During the committee’s formal meeting, members discussed children’s and young people’s democratic competence, participation, and critical thinking skills. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of education in promoting democratic values, source criticism, and civic engagement.
Children and young people need the tools to critically assess different sources of information and understand the importance of journalism. If we fail to accomplish this, there’s a risk of increasing polarisation in society. It’s also important that we in the Nordic Region establish common guidelines for managing the rapid development of AI.
Libraries, media, and Nordic film
The committee also welcomed Mikkel Christoffersen from the Danish Library Association, who highlighted both the opportunities and the challenges associated with digital library services and the evolving role of libraries in society.
Liselott Forsman, Director of the Nordisk Film & TV Fond, also attended the meeting and presented the organisation’s work to strengthen the quality, distribution, and international competitiveness of Nordic films, television series, and documentaries. She also highlighted the challenges related to tax incentives for film production and the differences between the systems used across the Nordic countries.
Skills for the future labour market
The second day of the meeting focused on the future skills needed in the labour market. In Frederikshavn, the committee visited MARTEC, a maritime education and training centre specialising in shipping, technology, and the green transition. The visit provided valuable insight into how the education sector is adapting to meet changing labour market demands.
The committee also visited Tolne Efterskole, a boarding school for young people who require additional support in their education and personal development. Through discussions with students and staff, members gained first-hand insight into how personalised teaching and a strong sense of community can help build confidence and improve educational outcomes.
Shared insights for the Nordic Region
The experiences gained in Skagen underline how investment in cultural heritage, education, and skills development strengthens Nordic cohesion, competitiveness, and resilience in a time of rapid societal change.
The committee will now take on board the insights gained from its summer meeting as it continues its work to develop shared Nordic solutions to the challenges of the future.
