Abstract
The global crisis, the need to reform the European Union and the identity crisis of the old continent are the backdrop for a conference on Switzerland and Norway. What are the medium-term consequences for Norway and Switzerland, two independent European players? The conference will first look into the Norwegian and Swiss social model and the resulting economic punch. Second, the seminar analyzes the policy of peace building and its impact in foreign relations. The third part finally discusses if and how the crisis is likely to affect the political and economical strategies of Norway and Switzerland. Where lies the future for Norway and Switzerland?
After an introduction by Ulf Sverdrup in the first chapter labeled Two different social models. Similar results?, Spyridon Arvanitis and Atle Midttun will look into the Swiss and the Nordic model and compare strengths and weaknesses of both systems. Is it especially important for small countries to be innovative? The following round table presents two Swiss living and working in Norway and one Norwegian based in Switzerland. Erik Amble, Aline Bütikofer and Thomas Bull-Larsen. What are the reasons for a Norwegian to pursue a career in Switzerland? What system is “better”? The debate is presented by Ingrid Meissl Årebo.
In the second chapter Contribution to peace, reconciliation and global order Kristian Berg Harpviken and Daniel Möckli assess the efforts in international peace building. Are the peace engagements of Switzerland and Norway purely charitable or part of a foreign relations strategy? The round table will bring together Bente Angell-Hansen and Georges Martin. The official attendees debate if economical interests influence peace engagements and if an efficient peace policy allows small countries to punch above their diplomatic weight. Bjørn Hansen chairs the debate.
The third chapter Global crisis – what future for Norway and Switzerland? features John Stoll and Lars Trägårdh. They will broaden the perspective to look at Norway and Switzerland from the outside and analyze how the European crisis and the current global changes are likely to affect these islands of prosperity. The round table assembles Nikolai Astrup, Daniel Klingele, as well as Nina Witoszek, author of the book Origins of the Regime of Goodness (Verdens beste land) . The panel debates possible developments and strategies for Norway and Switzerland. Kjetil Wiedswang will present the round table.
At the end of the Swiss Norwegian Day, Ulf Sverdrup will quickly summarize the results of the three chapters and try to deduce an ad hoc proposal for a Swiss-Norwegian team play.