Nordic ministers of justice: Societal security and resilience reinforce the rule of law and democracy
The declaration builds on the statement adopted by the Nordic prime ministers in May 2025 on promoting resilience and ensuring effective civil preparedness. The Nordic model – with strong democratic institutions, high levels of trust, and cross-border co-operation – is highlighted as a foundation for dealing with future challenges.
“I believe it is important that we, the Nordic ministers of justice, make a joint commitment to bolstering societal security, improving trust in authorities, and safeguarding the integrity of democracy and the rule of law. We must maintain our close co-operation in order to share good practice and strengthen co-operation between authorities to combat terrorism, hybrid threats, and cyber threats, as well as prevent cross-border crime, corruption, and human trafficking,” says Finland's Minister of Justice, Leena Meri.
The ministers stress that fundamental rights and freedoms must be safeguarded, even under exceptional circumstances. Societal resilience must be strengthened through preventative efforts in respect of violent extremism, terrorism, gang formation, and radicalisation. At the same time, citizens’ trust in public authorities must be maintained – a key factor in facilitating joint action in crisis situations.
The Nordic Co-operation Programme for Justice Affairs 2025–2030 identifies several priority areas:
- Sharing information on cyber threats and hybrid threats: The countries will share best practices and strengthen co-operation between key authorities to address these threats together.
- Cross-border crime prevention: Organised crime, corruption, and human trafficking require co-ordination at both the political and administrative levels.
- Trust as a basis for resilience: A high degree of trust between citizens, authorities, and civil society is essential for societal preparedness.
- Regular addressing of preparedness issues: Preparedness matters within the justice sector are to be raised regularly in Nordic working groups and meetings.
The declaration is signed by the ministers of justice from Denmark, Finland, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Åland.
