The Nordic Council debates security co-operation in Tórshavn

The President of the Nordic Council, Bryndís Haraldsdóttir, observed that new global tensions are increasingly felt in the North Atlantic and the Arctic and welcomed Finnish and Swedish membership of NATO, but she also pointed out that the situation remains uncertain.

Guest speaker Vice Admiral Louise Dedichen, the Norwegian Military Representative to NATO began by stating that changes in security policy in the Nordic Region in recent years have been more significant than for several decades.

"NATO's expansion is a direct consequence of Russia's aggression in Ukraine. NATO is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year – and a few years ago, no one would have thought that Sweden and Finland would celebrate that anniversary as members."

The Vice Admiral observed that the Nordic countries have perhaps disarmed more than they should have done over the last few decades and taken our freedom for granted.

One of the areas in which Dedichen sees particular potential for closer Nordic co-operation is infrastructure to facilitate transport between the countries.

"I cannot stress enough that we are stronger together. Regarding ​​infrastructure, we have much to do and plenty of opportunities to work together in new ways."

The Vice Admiral also advocates the standardisation of defence equipment and training and says it is essential that the Nordic countries recruit young people to their armed forces.

During the discussion, several members of the Nordic Council raised the question of how to deal with hybrid threats. These are becoming increasingly common, particularly in Finland, where Russia's hybrid warfare has included sending refugees across the border. The resilience and civil preparedness of the Nordic societies were also highlighted as crucial areas in which to work together.

"It is really important that we all learn more about security issues," concluded the President of the Nordic Council, Bryndís Haraldsdóttir.