Elina, who calls herself a technofreak, highlighted the developments in the world of technology that are exciting her at the moment: genetically modified food; computers that operate on brainwaves; subcutaneous sensors; smartnappies; life relocating to the virtual world; and more.
Louise encouraged us to take note of both stronger and softer trends and to have the courage to be angry and annoyed, since that’s when we realise that we need change.
Magnus drew our attention to the fact that we delight in certain things in the world when often things that seem innovative on one side of the planet have long since been discovered on the other - one person’s new is another person’s old. There is too much competition in the world, including in the Nordic-Baltic region, and it has mutated into paranoia. We’ve started to punish creativity and welcome competition, which stifles development. At some point you have to move beyond competition in order to be creative. Let us be creators and let us remain creators:
- Ignoring trends and searching for secrets
- Experimenting
- Being patient and thinking long-term
Inviting partners of long standing as well as new friends to celebrate Nordic Day with us, we sought their views on what are likely to be the biggest points of contention the Nordic countries and Estonia will have to deal with together in the near future. We were very pleasantly surprised that so many people took the opportunity to express their thoughts.
We can’t ignore the migration crisis, which is sure to affect the Nordic-Baltic region for quite a few years to come. It will have an impact on security, population development, culture and the economy. Digitalisation and data exchange require a new approach. The most effective way of influencing the future is through education. We’re hoping for more creative, flexible, lifelong learning. If we don’t look after nature and maintain our environment, our long-term prospects for development are null. We want a society based on equal opportunities. We also want a society where human life is valued so highly that it is not traded in any way, shape or form.
The feedback we received shows that we’re all looking in the same direction. We share values and a desire to work more closely together. Together we are stronger.
Take a look at photos from Nordic Day and the 25th anniversary celebrations!