Release Peace: The Magazine
Europe's High North
Across a plethora of subjects, Europe's Nordic countries are admired around the world for their equality, nature, and innovations. We look at what is beneath the surface.
Europe's High North: An exploration of the Nordic countries & societies
Cities for Citizens: Two Cases of Nordic Urban Planning
The foundations upon which a city is built define not only the short-term lifestyle of its inhabitants but also the long-term opportunities for its development. Urban planning balances these objectives. One Nordic capital city and one mid-sized town surrounded by a nature park serve as case studies.
How to Regenerate an Ecosystem
“Order crab soup next time you eat out,” advises the Nature Park Lillebælt directorate. This suggestion is part of an initiative to protect the natural ecosystems and provide safe havens for marine life in the Little Belt region of central Denmark.
Truly Unique: The Arctic Council and Indigenous Rights
The Arctic Council is the world's only intergovernmental body that includes the representation of indigenous peoples. The Council is made up of all countries extending North of the Arctic circle. There are 4 million inhabitants in the Arctic region and approximately 500,000 of them belong to indigenous peoples. Their representation is crucial and the workings of the Council might set an example for the world.
You Should Know About Aquatic Sustainability - A Case Study
The world's seas and oceans account for an astonishing 71% of the world's land mass. Yet, many are unfamiliar with the concept of aquatic sustainability.
The Roots and Cultural Heritage of the Sami
When thinking of the Nordics, most will give little thought to the region's Indigenous population. The Sami are estimated to number 80,000 - 100,000. Their cultural roots tell us more than you think.
The Moment Sweden Lost a Staggering 20% of its Population
Today one of the most affluent countries in the world and a major destination for migrants Sweden was once on the other side of the migration equation. Few other countries in the world have ever experienced such an exodus. And one town in Sweden's South has played a pivotal role in that history.
When History is - Literally - Unearthed
Recent excavations at Erritsø in the town of Fredericia, Denmark, have revealed a formidable Viking fortress that changes what most historians know about a time long passed.
Tired of Mass Tourism? Let's do Sustainable Tourism
The Nordics are amongst the regions in the world at the forefront of pioneering sustainable tourism. We delve into two destinations that exemplify this concept like few others. What does sustainable tourism mean? How can travellers experience it? And are there any objective criteria or to help find sustainable tourist destinations?
The River Torne: 522 km of Astonishing Beauty
The year 1809 marked the year that Sweden lost the areas we now call Finland to Imperial Russia. Prompted by the Treaty of Fredrikshamn, the river Torne was chosen as a border between Sweden and the new Russian Grand Duchy of Finland. The treaty stated that the border should follow the deepest part of the river. For much of its length, the border still follows the longest free-flowing river in Europe. At its mouth, its flows through Haparanda-Tornio, a city which lies in both Sweden and Finland.
The Magic of Huldufólk
For centuries tales of the huldufólk, the 'hidden folk' or elves, have been told in the low glow of northern hearths. There is a long tradition of tale-telling on these harsh isles, many about magical beings, particularly in Iceland. Some of the richest troves of Norse myth in the world have been penned by its mediaeval poets, who mention elves ('alfar') alongside such Nordic gods as Odin and Thor.
A Sweet Secret to Swedish Success
A concept called "Fika" is deeply embedded in Swedish culture. This story counters the notion that a 24/7 work culture is good for businesses. It goes to show that a pleasant way of life and a successful economy do not only go hand in hand, but must be interlinked.
Another, Simply Wonderful Nordic Concept: Sweden's Allemansrätten
In Sweden you can go anywhere you like. This is not an exaggeration: The old-age Swedish tradition of ‘allemansrätten,’ or ‘right to roam’, enables you to pick mushrooms, fish, climb, kayak or set up a tent almost anywhere you want. This even extends to accessing some private property.
How to Measure the Shape of the Earth?
For many, the centre of (measuring) the world is Greenwich. For others, it is the equator. But what if it is a place up North? A measuring project that covers an astonishing 2,820km? In the North of Europe might lie one of the most underrated scientific projects in the world.
A Look at Norway's System of Father's Quotas
Soon-to-be parents in Norway are entitled to 49 weeks of combined paid leave. Mothers can take paid maternity leave of 18 weeks, and the “common period” which is 16 paid weeks for both parent. The country has set up a system to ensure both parents are spending time with their new-born and receive paid leave. Does this encourage fathers to stay home? Can it be a case study for other nations?
A Cultural Treasure: The Wonderful Christmas Traditions of Finland
In the Middle Ages, ‘the Peace of Christmas’ was declared in Finland, meaning that crimes committed during a three day period around Christmas were given harsher punishments. The tradition began in the 1320s and persists today, intending to incentivise people to behave respectfully and peacefully during the festive period. Today, there are many Finnish Christmas traditions one can explore. And they are a wonderful reflection of Finnish culture.
Denmark and its fascinating Nature Parks
Being surrounded by the sea, it is perhaps no surprise that Denmark has an impressive 8,740 kilometres of coastline. In fact, you are never more than 67 kilometres away from the coast anywhere in the country. One of Denmark's picturesque coastlines is along the Lillebælt on the western edge of Jutland. It boasts an incredible nature park that the world can learn from.
