What are Norwegians most proud of?

Norwegians take pride in many aspects of their culture, society, and history. From their natural beauty to their social policies, Norwegians have much to be proud of — though Janteloven means you will rarely hear them say so directly. Here are some of the things that Norwegians are most proud of.

Natural Beauty

Norway is known for its stunning natural beauty, from the fjords to the mountains to the Northern Lights. Norwegians take pride in their country’s landscape and are committed to preserving it, and access to it is written into law through allemannsretten. The habit of being out in it has its own name: friluftsliv.

Social Policies

Norway has a strong social welfare system that provides universal healthcare, publicly funded education, and generous social benefits including parental leave and sick pay. Norwegians are proud of their country’s commitment to social justice and equality, and they view these policies as a reflection of their national values. It is paid for by a tax system they are unusually willing to defend, explained in how Norwegian tax works.

History

Norway has a rich history that Norwegians are proud of. From the Viking era to the resistance during the Second World War, marked each year on Liberation Day, Norwegians take pride in their country’s history. National pride is at its most visible on 17 May, when the bunad comes out.

Winter Sports

Norway is a winter sports country above all else, with a cross-country tradition covered in our guide to langrenn. Norway has won more Winter Olympic medals than any other nation, and this is one of the very few subjects on which Norwegians will drop the modesty entirely.

Norwegian Design

Norwegian design is known for its simplicity, functionality, and durability. The clearest example is the Stokke Tripp Trapp, the adjustable children’s chair designed by Peter Opsvik in 1972 and still in production. Outdoor brands such as Helly Hansen, Norrøna and Devold carry the same reputation abroad — see Norwegian brands. The emphasis on things built to last reflects the country’s wider commitment to environmental protection.

Conclusion

Norwegians take pride in many aspects of their culture, society, and history. From their natural beauty to their social policies to their winter sports heritage, Norwegians have much to be proud of. These reflect the country’s commitment to social justice, environmental protection, and healthy living — expressed, in true Norwegian fashion, without much noise about it.