A competitive Nordic Region
Co-operation around culture and language generates a sense of community, understanding and trust between peoples in the Nordic Region, and it contributes towards a stronger degree of integration in the region. Knowledge of and access to Nordic culture, cultural heritage and Nordic languages, including sign languages, among children and young people builds cohesion and wellbeing, and provides opportunities for creative development, culture of expression and democratic participation. Cultural co-operation must support culture as a general social good and a strong and diverse cultural life as something that is inclusive and available to all. Language policy co-operation must be continued and prioritised, with emphasis placed on the preservation of minority languages in the Nordic Region, the development of language technologies and the development of language and cultural comprehension among children and young people. The Declaration on Nordic Language Policy must be followed up on in collaboration with the Council of Ministers for Education and Research.