“We’ll place special emphasis on peace as a prerequisite for welfare, human rights and environmental protection. To that end, the title of Iceland’s presidency in 2023 refers to the Nordic Region as a force for peace. In addition, it’s important to continue working towards our vision for a green, competitive and sustainable Nordic Region by 2030,” says Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Prime Minister of Iceland.
Peace is a prerequisite for the vision
Peace should be a cornerstone of Nordic co-operation. Iceland will emphasise this by highlighting the co-operation between the region’s peace centres and research institutions. By building on their knowledge, the Nordic countries can be messengers for diplomatic solutions, peace and disarmament. In addition, the Icelandic presidency will host an international conference in Reykjavík with a focus on peace as a prerequisite for human rights, welfare and gender equality.
A just green transition
Central to the programme is a just green transition, through and through. Emphasis will be placed on the sustainable utilisation of marine resources. Other key points are:
- Gender equality and rights, especially for transgender and intersex people
- Equal opportunities for participation in the labour market
- Strengthening and development of the Nordic culture and arts scene
- Joint Nordic policy for digital language technology
- Strengthened West Nordic co-operation during the presidency
Overall, the activities must contribute to the realisation of Vision 2030 – for the Nordic Region to be the most sustainable and integrated region in the world. This vision was formulated by the Nordic prime ministers five years ago, during the period when Iceland last held the presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers.
