Nordic countries are world-famous for their splendid landscapes, without forgetting the quality of life, as mentioned above, and the high standard of living. But as with most countries, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on these countries. Today, life is governed by strict regulations in most of them despite the chaos in the beginning.
Unlike Norway, where there was a total lockdown from the start of the crisis, Sweden chose to keep its borders until things got out of control. So far, the country has a record of 938,000 COVID-19 cases and a death toll of 13,923. In December 2020, more than 8,000 deaths had been recorded, which is much higher than in other Nordic countries. Indeed, Norway currently has a record of 736 COVID-19-related deaths out of some 111,000 cases, while Finland has had nearly 900,000 cases and 906 deaths. In Denmark, 2,477 people have died out of over 248,000 positive cases. Still, things are worse in other European countries where figures keep on rising.
Nordic countries recovered faster than other European countries
As in most countries worldwide, Nordic countries have also been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in spite of their fragile economy and labour market, it looks like they are faring better than many others. European countries such as Portugal and Spain, etc., heavily rely on the tourism and leisure industry, which has come to a standstill, unlike Nordic countries. Government measures helped reduce the pressure on households and businesses. These include the extension of unemployment insurance, the introduction of loan guarantees, and other economic stimulus measures.
The Swedish economy contracted 8.6% from April to June 2020, at the peak of the pandemic, but figures went down in the following months. The European Union was worse, however, with an 11.9% contraction during the same period. At the end of 2020, Sweden's contraction rate dropped to 2.9%. Despite a 3.7% contraction in Denmark compared to 2019, a 0.6% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth was recorded in the last quarter of 2020. A 6.6% contraction was recorded in the Euro Zone, but Norway fared better with just a slightly lower growth rate compared to pre-pandemic times. Remember, however, that Norway is not part of the EU, unlike Denmark and Sweden.
Forecasts from the Swedish National Institute of Economic Research look favourable, especially regarding import prospects and business confidence. In early 2021, Denmark's forecasts also looked promising.
Can you travel to Nordic countries during the crisis?
Currently, Nordic countries have only reopened their borders to nationals of certain countries. Besides EU and EEA (European Economic Area) citizens, Australians, New Zealanders, Rwandans, Singaporeans, South Koreans and Thais are the only nationalities that are allowed to enter Nordic countries. There's strict control at their borders to ensure national health and safety.
To enter Sweden, for example, travellers must produce a negative COVID-19 certificate at the border. The test must have been carried out 48 hours before their arrival. They also have to take a test on their arrival and another after five days. All travellers are quarantined for a minimum of 7 days and are required to avoid physical contact with others as far as possible. Flights from third countries have been suspended until further notice.
Norway, meanwhile, has extended its travel restrictions after a more contagious COVID-19 variant was detected in its territory. Only Norwegians and foreigners residing in Norway are allowed to return. As of March 29, 2021, anyone travelling to Norway for leisure is quarantined for ten days. But there are some exceptions, including for journalists, commercial transport workers, etc. A negative COVID-19 test is also required. Travellers from certain countries must take another COVID-19 test at the Norwegian border.
Denmark intends to introduce the vaccination passport for better control at its borders. For now, travellers are required to produce a negative COVID-19 certificate obtained within 24 hours of their departure. Upon arrival, they must take another test before being quarantined. There are additional restrictions for travellers from the UK due to the British variant.
In Finland, entry restrictions have been extended until May 25, 2021. However, non-essential travel from 7 countries, namely, the Vatican, Australia, Singapore, Thailand, New Zealand, South Korea and Rwanda, is allowed. There is no quarantine or negative COVID-19 test requirement for these travellers. Only those arriving from high-risk countries are required to produce a negative COVID-19 test.
However, travellers who test positive after their arrival in any Nordic country have nothing to worry about. Nordic countries are famous for their excellent healthcare systems and high-quality treatment.
Perks of living in Nordic countries
The Nordic model is based on the universal concept. For example, both the health system and education at all levels are excellent and free of charge. And while taxes may be relatively high compared to other countries, so are wages. Employees are entitled to many other benefits such as paid leave, parental leave, and generous retirement pensions. It's worth noting that these benefits are funded by taxpayers under government administration. However, unlike many other countries, citizens of Nordic countries have great trust in the system. The wage gap is lower compared to many other countries, and the governments keep striving for equal distribution of wealth.
Employees are also entitled to benefits, especially during the pandemic. Even though the law makes it easier for companies to lay off their employees for restructuring, there is a range of financial and vocational support programs. Gender equality is another priority for Nordic countries, which probably explains women's participation at all levels. The entrepreneurial culture is also very present in Nordic countries thanks to government support. It's worth noting that Sweden and Denmark are among the best countries in the world to start a business, while Norway and Finland have the most sustainable policies.
