Norden – Making a Difference? Possibilities for enhanced Nordic cooperation in international affairs

Abstract:

The beginning of the 21st century is playing host to the transformation of northern Europe’s political landscapes. The forces of globalisation, Europeanisation and subregionalisation are creating new incentives for, as well as barriers to, regional cooperation among the five Nordic countries. The Nordic community of values is being challenged by competing transnational calls for common identities, while at the same time renewed governance structures bring forth new instruments, mechanisms and topics for influencing world politics.

This report identifies the channels and policies that could increase Nordic influence in the management of global, European and subregional affairs. It finds that by joining forces the Nordic countries could have a stronger voice in various international arenas, but that this hidden potential cannot be unleashed without solid commitments to enhancing policy coordination and increasing operative burden-sharing. In order to make a difference in the years to come, the Nordic cooperation framework needs an energy boost.