Geography
Norway is a very long and narrow country situated at the northern tip of Europe. It extends 1,770 km/1,100 miles from south to north, reaching into the Arctic Circle. Its rugged coastline measures 19,950 km/12,400 miles and once upon a time inspired the Vikings to name the country Norway, i.e. the way to the North.
Economy and Standard of Living
While Norway is one of the world’s wealthiest countries, it nonetheless has its economic challenges. The biggest question the country faces is which industry will fill the void when oil production declines.
The Norwegian economy is an example of a mixed economy that combines free market activity and large state ownership in key sectors. A former ISS student noted, "...it is not the presence of money, but the absence of poverty" that tends to strike the casual observer. The social welfare system and legislation have led to the development of a huge middle class in Norway.
Norway is not part of the European Union, but does participate in the Schengen Agreement and the European Economic Area.
The Norwegian Central Bureau of Statistics complied useful facts in This is Norway.
Langu?age
Norway has two official languages, Bokm?l and Nynorsk. Sami is an official language in six municipalities in the northern regions.
Government and Society
Norway is a constitutional monarchy. In practice, however, the legislative body of the 169-member Parliament rules the Kingdom of Norway. The country has a multi-party system with a general election held every fourth year. The current Prime Minister is Erna Solberg.
The Norwegians are often seen as reserved and quiet. The landscape plays a big part in shaping the national psyche and many people find themselves either directly or romantically affected by the landscape. Storms at sea or on land can have devastating consequences while many Norwegians are fanatic about outdoor recreation.
Equality between the sexes
Norway is seen as a leading nation in the equality between the sexes. The laws mean to provide equal rights for men and women in both the public and private spheres. Strict laws are in place to protect women against sexual harassment.
Many foreigners will find that Norwegian women appear more self-confident and that they expect more gender-neutral treatment than is seen in other parts of the world. Women tend to have a liberal way of dressing that may or may not be found in your home country and should not be taken as flirtation.
A multicultural society
For a nation of its size, Norway has an impressive foreign aid budget and is involved as negotiator in many conflict areas. At the same time, Norway’s transition into a multicultural society has not been problem-free and often sparks heated debates.
Opening hours
Most public and private offices are either closed or have reduced operating hours during the summer. Few public offices are open after 15:00, so check opening hours before you visit.
Security
Although Oslo and Norway is generally a safe and peaceful environment, we ask that all students be aware of their personal safety and the safety of the group. Pickpocketers are common in the summer, so be sure to take precautions when you are out in crowded public places.
Drugs, Drinking & Smoking
In Norway the possession and use of ecstasy, marijuana, cocaine, LSD, etc. is illegal. Enforcement is active and foreigners convicted of drug offences first serve jail terms and then are deported.
Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is also illegal. First time offenders receive a three-week jail sentence.
Norwegian law prohibits smoking in all public buildings. This includes everything from cinemas to municipal offices to railway stations, as well as the university and dormitory buildings. Please do not expect to be reminded by signs. A comprehensive indoor smoking ban that also applies to restaurants, cafés, and bars, has been in place since January 2005.
Shoplifting
All supermarkets and most stores have security measures against shoplifting. Foreigners caught shoplifting are deported irrespective of the value of the stolen item.
The ISS' legal responsibility
The ISS is not in a position to assist ISS participants who are alleged to have committed any type of offences.