Nordic Day 2025: Societal Resilience and Preparedness

In an era marked by geopolitical tensions, social instability, and environmental challenges, Nordic societies are facing increasingly complex and hybrid threats. While Iceland has extensive experience in managing natural disasters, the question remains: How prepared are we to confront multifaceted risks that challenge our collective trust and cooperation? And in times of crisis, can we rely on our Nordic neighbors for support?

From the looming threat of war to more frequent extreme weather events, disinformation campaigns, and the erosion of democratic values, the security landscape is rapidly evolving. This has brought the issue of societal resilience to the forefront of public discourse in the Nordic region. In Finland’s Presidency Program for the Nordic Council of Ministers 2025, civil preparedness, trust, and resilience are critical priorities for the region’s future.

Crises can emerge suddenly or develop quietly over time, leaving lasting damage that often goes unnoticed until it is too late. How prepared are we to manage emergencies and ensure effective cooperation across borders, sectors, and institutions? What role does trust play in fortifying societal resilience? And what can we learn from our Nordic neighbors like Finland, who are implementing forward-thinking measures to safeguard their societies?

On the occasion of Nordic Day 2025, the Nordic Council of Ministers, in collaboration with the Nordic Association in Iceland, invites you to join this vital discussion. Together, we will explore what it takes to ensure a robust, united Nordic region capable of navigating the challenges ahead. The event will take place in English.

Program

Opening words: Anu Laamanen, Ambassador of Finland to Iceland

Presentation by Janne Känkänen, Chief Executive Officer of the Finnish National Emergency Supply Agency

Presentation by Rasmus Dahlberg, disaster researcher, historian, and leader of the NordForsk research project RESECTOR

Panel discussion with:

· Anu Laamanen, Ambassador of Finland to Iceland

· Rasmus Dahlberg, Researcher and leader of RESECTOR

· Janne Känkänen, Chief Executive Officer of the Finnish National Emergency Supply Agency

· Hinrika Sandra Ingimundardóttir, Project manager at the Directorate for Defence at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs

· Dagbjört Hákonardóttir, Chair of the Icelandic delegation to the Nordic Council.

Jón Gunnar Ólafsson, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Political Science at the University of Iceland, will moderate the event.

The event is organized by the Nordic Council of Ministers in collaboration with the Nordic Association in Iceland.

Seating is limited and participation requires registration. Reserve your seat here: https://www.lyyti.fi/reg/Nordic_Day_2025_Societal_Resilience_and_Preparedness_4453