New strategy for a more integrated Nordic Region
The vision is simple. A Nordic Region in which it is just as easy to commute between Karlstad and Kongsvinger as between Uppsala and Stockholm; in which digital solutions work seamlessly, qualifications are recognised by all, and you don't lose rights just because you cross a border.
The strategy is designed to help the Nordic Council’s work on freedom of movement whenever the governments drag their feet
The strategy is called Free Movement in the Nordic Region 2026–2030. It builds on several years of work by the Freedom of Movement Group. According to members of the Nordic Council, governments often take too long to address obstacles to freedom of movement. The strategy is designed to give them a stronger hand. One of the critics is Kjell-Arne Ottosson, chair of the Nordic Council Freedom of Movement Group.
“This strategy will strengthen the Nordic Council’s hand whenever governments drag their feet on freedom of movement,” he says.
Ottosson also stresses that the strategy is about more than just clearing up past problems. It also seeks to prevent new obstacles from arising and becoming entrenched in the bureaucracy.
Seven rights, three tools
The strategy defines seven fundamental rights for Nordic citizens and businesses: the right to work, study, conduct business and receive health services without unnecessary obstacles; the right to clear tax rules; the right to freedom of movement – including in times of crisis – and the right to digital solutions that work across borders.
Three specific tools will help facilitate all of this:
- A knowledge bank of facts, solutions and experiences from across the Nordic Region
- A network of actors from parliaments, business and civil society, all working together to overcome practical problems
- Clear performance indicators to quantify progress and document results.
The strategy also envisages a greater role for the Nordic Council Freedom of Movement Group, which will act as both a bridge builder and watchdog in the partnership between the Nordic parliaments and governments. Members are expected to listen, act and ensure that proposals do not get bogged down in the system.
Nordic co-operation is not measured in terms of meetings and documents, but in how easy it actually is for people to live, work and co-operate across borders. This strategy will help us move from words to deeds
In step with the times
The ambition is a more integrated Nordic Region in which systems harmonise with people’s everyday lives.
The strategy will help ensure that freedom of movement is not just a political vision, but a practical reality for the 27 million people in the region.
Ottosson sums it up like this:
Nordic co-operation is not measured in terms of meetings and documents, but in how easy it actually is for people to live, work and co-operate across borders. This strategy will help us move from words to deeds.
