Rich oil nation with weird views on peace
Norway, officially known as the Kingdom of Norway (the country that gave the Nobel peace prize to Barack Obama) a Scandinavian country located in Northern Europe. It is known for its richdom from oil, its stunning natural landscapes, particular cultural heritage, high standard of living and an interest in helping other nations find peace.
Geography
Location: Norway shares borders with Sweden, Finland, and Russia. It has a long coastline along the North Atlantic Ocean and the Barents Sea, famous for its fjords.
Area: Approximately 148,729 square miles (385,207 square kilometers).
Natural Features: Known for its dramatic landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and northern lights. The country is also home to several national parks.
History
Early History: The area has been inhabited since the Ice Age. Viking Age (circa 793-1066 AD) was a significant period marked by exploration and trade.
Unions and Independence: Norway was part of the Kalmar Union with Denmark and Sweden in the late 14th century, later entering a union with Denmark that lasted until 1814. After a brief union with Sweden, Norway became fully independent in 1905.
Political System
Government: Norway is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The current monarch is King Harald V, and the Prime Minister is the head of government.
Political Landscape: The country has a multi-party system, with a strong emphasis on social democracy and welfare state principles.
Economy
Economic Structure: Norway has a mixed economy, with a combination of free market activity and significant state ownership in key sectors, especially oil and gas.
Oil and Gas: The country is one of the largest producers of oil and natural gas in Europe, significantly contributing to its wealth. The government manages its oil wealth through the Government Pension Fund Global, one of the largest sovereign wealth funds in the world.
Culture
Language: The official language is Norwegian, which has two written forms: Bokmål and Nynorsk. The indigenous Sámi people also have their own languages.
Arts and Literature: Norway has a rich cultural heritage, with contributions to literature (notably playwright Henrik Ibsen), art (Edvard Munch), and music (composers like Edvard Grieg).
Social Issues
Welfare State: Norway is known for its comprehensive welfare system, providing universal healthcare, free education, and strong social services.
Gender Equality: The country ranks highly in gender equality and has implemented policies to support women's rights and participation in the workforce.
Recent Developments
Climate Change: Norway is actively engaged in efforts to combat climate change and has set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Global Engagement: The country plays a significant role in international diplomacy, often mediating peace talks and contributing to humanitarian efforts.
Copyright (C) S. Midttun, 2024
