In a joint statement released by the office of the Swedish Prime Minister, Fredrik Reinfeldt, three leaders of Nordic states have reiterated their commitment to freedom, equality and social justice in the face of the attacks in Norway, which took place on Friday 22nd July 2011.
Fredrik Reinfeldt, the Prime Minister of Sweden, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, the Prime Minister of Denmark, and Jyrki Katainen, the Prime Minister of Finland, stated that they want Sweden, Denmark and Finland to be known for openness and cohesion:
“The Nordic countries are among the world’s most free and open. We stand firmly rooted in democratic values and affirm the right to freedom of opinion and expression. Our countries are characterised by well-developed welfare models and a high degree of individual freedom and gender equality. We stand in solidarity with the rest of the world, sharing our wealth and opening our doors to people fleeing war and oppression.”
To underline their commitment to joint values, the trio visited the World Scout Jamboree, outside Kristianstad in Sweden, to “recognise and encourage the active involvement of young people in the community”. Jyrki Katainen said that the Jamboree energised him and provided “a sense of hope”. Lars Løkke Rasmussen said that he was “thrilled. It’s always very exciting to visit a scout camp – especially one as huge as this. I’m always very impressed that the people have managed to create a city on the field – so I’m very impressed”.
The leaders also announced that the possession of weapons and explosive substances would now be reviewed. In tandem with the previous announcements, the leaders pointed to community cohesion as a method of preventing susceptible individuals from being drawn into extremist movements.
The Nordic system of government was hailed by the politicians as a great example of a social community:
“For almost fifty years we have been successfully developing a Nordic social model that unites our countries. It has laid the foundation for security, a sense of community and trust among the people who live here. It has strengthened our countries and given us opportunities to grow and develop in step with a changing world.
“We will now continue to develop our Nordic social model in the years ahead.
“It is our most important countermeasure in the fight against anti-democratic messages, extremism and the use of violence.”
The leaders plan to further their program of co-operation and mutual assistance at the Nordic Council Session in Copenhagen in the Autumn.
