Greenland's government, Naalakkersuisut, has launched a new national suicide prevention strategy called 'Qamani' to be implemented through 2028, aiming to provide better support for citizens with suicidal thoughts or behaviors. The strategy includes citizen courses and local contact points for professional and volunteer collaboration. Advocacy center MIO and Greenland’s Red Cross youth department, Kalaallit Røde Korsiat, emphasize the need for psychological aid and training in psychological first aid. Young people in Greenland, including Linda Lyberth Kristiansen, stress the importance of addressing the societal issue of suicide, which is prevalent in their communities, and the need for communal support spaces. The strategy also addresses the challenges of providing mental support in isolated villages and the impact of intergenerational trauma from Greenland's colonial past with Denmark.

Scandinavia experienced extreme weather with Denmark facing hurricane-level winds, and Sweden and Norway dealing with heavy rain and thunderstorms. In Norway, landslides prompted evacuations, and the Prime Minister vowed to enhance climate change adaptation efforts. The flooding is estimated to cost Norway $50 million. Scientists attribute the unusual weather to global warming, with a professor from the Danish Meteorological Institute explaining the role of temperature differences in the formation of the low-pressure system causing the rainfall. Europe is advised to prepare for more erratic weather, posing challenges to agriculture.

A 22-year-old man known to mental health services has been charged with seven attempted murders and the murders of three individuals, including two 17-year-olds and a 46-year-old Russian citizen, following a shooting at Field's shopping mall in Copenhagen. The incident, which resulted in additional injuries, is not being treated as a terror attack. The suspect, who cannot be named by court order, is to be held in a closed psychiatric ward pending trial. Mental health issues have become a focal point of discussion, with experts highlighting the under-resourced state of Denmark's psychiatric sector. A memorial for the victims is planned, and the investigation is ongoing.

Four Danish aid organizations, including Action Aid Denmark, Amnesty International in Denmark, Oxfam Ibis, and Al-Haq, are preparing to sue the Danish state for allegedly breaching international obligations by exporting arms used by Israel in the Gaza conflict. They claim these exports contribute to human rights violations and war crimes. The lawsuit will target the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Police. Danish companies such as Terma and MyDefence are implicated in producing and exporting military technology. There is a strong public sentiment in Denmark for a cease-fire and protection of civilians in Gaza, with protests occurring in major cities. The Danish government has expressed concern over the situation in Gaza but maintains that Israel has the right to defend itself.

A Quran burning demonstration by Rasmus Paludan and his supporters outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm has led to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan threatening to block Sweden's NATO membership bid. The protest sparked international reactions, including the burning of a Swedish flag in Turkey. Sweden and Finland need approval from all NATO members to join, but Turkey has been hesitant, demanding Sweden hand over individuals tied to Kurdish militants. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed sympathy for offended Muslims but upheld the country's freedom of speech. The Swedish and Turkish defense ministers' meeting was canceled following the incident.

The Danish government is considering legal measures to prevent public Quran burnings after such incidents led to violent protests and strained diplomatic relations, particularly with Muslim nations. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen highlighted the need for unity and the potential for a new law to avoid international crises. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation expressed concern over increasing intolerance and far-right movements. Law professor Frederik Waage suggested that Denmark might reintroduce a blasphemy paragraph repealed in 2017 to criminalize book burnings. The debate in Denmark includes concerns about freedom of expression and the precedent such a law might set.

Denmark's Liberal party leader Jakob Ellemann-Jensen, alongside Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and the leader of the new Moderates party, announced a new broad coalition government controlling 89 out of 179 parliamentary seats. This coalition, formed after 42 days of negotiations, is the first since the 1970s to include parties from both Democratic and Liberal factions. The government aims to address crises such as inflation, energy prices, and the war in Ukraine. They have proposed labor and education reforms, tax reductions, and climate action plans, despite criticism from left-wing parties like the Red-Green Alliance.

Ecuador is expanding oil drilling in Yasuni National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, despite opposition from local communities and environmentalists. The state-owned PetroEcuador and foreign companies like China's CNPC are operating in the park, encroaching on areas meant to protect uncontacted indigenous groups. The government's push to increase oil production for economic gain is met with criticism over the lack of local consent and environmental oversight, with fears of irreversible damage to the ecosystem. The situation echoes the country's history with oil pollution, including a controversial legal battle with Chevron.

In Copenhagen, Denmark, the city government's plan to create an artificial island called Lynetteholmen, intended to provide housing and 'green' workspaces for 35,000 people, has been met with a lawsuit from the Climate Movement. The group argues that the project's environmental and climate impact assessments are insufficient and that the process violates the Aarhus Convention. They also claim that the Danish state failed to comply with the Espoo Convention by not consulting neighboring countries adequately. The trial began in late November, with a provisional judgement expected in January. By & Havn, the building company, emphasizes the project's benefits, including flood protection and additional housing.

The European Union Parliament voted to criminalize ecocide, with stricter penalties for environmental crimes, including up to 10 years in prison. The Environmental Crimes Directive expands the list of offenses and allows for significant fines and exclusion from public funds for violators. The directive, which still requires final approval, aims to better protect the environment and may inspire non-EU countries to adopt stricter regulations. Notably, climate emissions are not included in the new offenses, highlighting the difficulty of legislating against climate change.

Denmark's Prince Joachim expressed sadness over Queen Margrethe II's decision to strip his children of their royal titles, which was unexpected and publicly criticized by him. Historian Lars Hovbakke Sørensen noted the uniqueness of the situation, as the Danish royal family typically keeps disputes private. The titles' removal is symbolic, aiming to maintain public support by reducing taxpayer-funded costs. Queen Margrethe admitted to underestimating the decision's impact. The conflict could harm the royal family's reputation, especially amidst global issues like the energy crisis and war in Ukraine.

Norway's government has received parliamentary backing to explore mineral extraction on the seafloor, a move met with concern from environmental experts. They fear the unknown impacts on Arctic Ocean ecosystems, which are already facing significant changes. Marine biology expert Jørgen Berge and geomicrobiology professor Lise Øvreås, among others, have voiced their worries about the potential environmental effects of deep sea mining. The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate has identified valuable minerals in the area, and the government plans to initiate exploration, with companies vying for extraction rights. However, the environmental directorate criticized the government's impact assessment as insufficient. Meanwhile, companies like BMW, Volvo, Google, and Microsoft have stated they will not use seabed minerals to maintain sustainability. The World Wildlife Fund's Karoline Andaur called it a 'dark day for Norwegian nature,' highlighting the international push for a moratorium on seabed mining.

Danish farmers may soon face carbon taxes for climate-polluting activities as the government considers three new taxation and regulation models proposed by an expert panel. The most comprehensive model suggests a tax of approximately $100 per ton of carbon dioxide emitted, with alternative schemes proposing lower taxes and support for technology development. The Danish Agriculture & Food Council warns that the highest tax could harm jobs and competitiveness, while dairy farmer Nis Kristian Hjort fears it could lead to the closure of smaller farms. The sector, which occupies 60% of Denmark's land, is a significant contributor to the country's emissions and has been under scrutiny for its use of pesticides and chemicals. The proposed taxes target emissions from livestock and fertilizers, with suggestions for tax credits for reforestation. Negotiations on the tax proposal are expected to be challenging and prolonged.

Ahmed Samsam's lawsuit against the Danish domestic and foreign intelligence services was rejected by the Eastern High Court, which declined to test his claim of working as an undercover spy in Syria. Samsam, convicted in Spain as an Islamic State group militant supporter, sought to reopen his case by proving his collaboration with Danish intelligence. Despite evidence that could provide an alibi, the Spanish Supreme Court upheld his conviction. Samsam plans to appeal to the Danish Supreme Court.

Denmark has one of the highest housing cost overburden rates in cities, with homeowners benefiting more from economic growth than renters. Since 2020, housing prices have surged by 21%, with a bubble forming in major cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg. Housing expert Jørgen Munksgaard Rasmussen from Bolius describes a wealth inequality spiral where property owners in cities gain equity and leverage to invest further. Rural areas, however, face stagnation. Anders Svendsen from the Danish Tenants Organization highlights the challenges for tenants, including rent increases outpacing salaries and the impact of deregulation. Simon Halphen Boserup from the University of Copenhagen notes that property is the most advantageous investment under Denmark's tax system, contributing to wealth disparities. The Danish housing market, with its state-controlled mortgage system, is relatively stable, but the tax system complicates regulation of sales gains. New property taxes are expected in 2024 to address the market imbalance.

Denmark experienced record-breaking rainfall in 2023, with 35.7 inches, despite a drought earlier in the year. The country's extensive coastline and history of settlement near shores make it vulnerable to sea level rise and storms, as evidenced by several damaging floods and storms, including a low-pressure storm named Pia. The government has increased funding for coastal protection, and experts like Birgitte Hoffmann from Copenhagen University advocate for building natural dunes, dikes, barriers, and canal locks, as well as adapting urban infrastructure to handle excess water. Measures such as creating barriers, returning areas to nature, and establishing new water management systems in cities are imperative. Portland, Oregon's Green Streets Program is highlighted as a successful example of infrastructure design that addresses water management and public health.

Estonia has become the first post-Soviet state to legalize same-sex marriage, a significant civil rights milestone. The new law, effective from 2024, ends years of legal confusion and ensures equality for same-sex couples. The Estonian Parliament, led by Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and her Reform Party, along with the Social Democrats and Estonia 200, approved the changes. The Estonian LGBT Association and other advocates view this as a major step forward in civil rights, reflecting the country's rapid modernization. The next goal for LGBT advocates is to secure faster medical treatments for transgender individuals.

The Faroe Islands face political pressure to end a 45-year-old fishing agreement with Russia due to the war in Ukraine and European trade boycotts. The agreement, which allows mutual fishing quotas, is under scrutiny as national elections approach. The opposition party opposes the deal on moral grounds, while the governing party remains undecided. The fishing industry, crucial to the Faroese economy, could be impacted, but experts suggest potential adjustments. Stakeholders present varied perspectives on the economic and ethical implications of continuing or ending the agreement.

Sweden's anti-immigration party, the Sweden Democrats, is set to hold the second greatest number of seats in parliament after a historically close national election. With 94% of ballots counted, Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson's Social Democratic Party leads with nearly 30% of the votes, while Ulf Kristersson's Moderate Party trails with 19%. The Sweden Democrats have gained 20.6% of the votes, becoming the second-largest party. The election campaign focused on crime, public safety, and economic issues, with no party holding a majority in the 349-member Riksdag, necessitating cooperation among parties. The formation of a new government may take time, as seen in the 2018 elections.

Sweden's recent national elections have resulted in a near-even split between the left and right wings, with the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats poised to become the second-largest party in parliament. Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson's Social Democratic Party leads with almost 30% of the votes, while Ulf Kristersson's Moderate Party trails with 19%. The election has been marked by discussions on crime, public safety, and rising energy prices. The final government formation may take time, as seen in the 2018 elections.

The Russian intelligence service GRU has been implicated in disinformation campaigns in Nordic countries, as revealed by a coalition of Scandinavian journalists. Investigations have shown that Russian actors have spread false rumors and created fake news sites targeting Nordic and Baltic audiences. The disinformation efforts aim to create internal discord in Western and Scandinavian countries, with notable operations involving false stories about anti-Ukraine protests and provocative actions inspired by right-wing politicians. Experts highlight the ease and low cost of these operations, emphasizing the need for awareness and defensive measures.

Denmark is expanding its state-funded 'fixing rooms' for drug addicts to provide safer environments for drug use, reducing public disturbances and health risks. Copenhagen's mayor for social issues, Karina Vestergård Madsen, and other political leaders support the initiative, emphasizing the need for more facilities across districts. The H17 facility in Copenhagen's meatpacking district serves as a model, offering supervised drug use, medical support, and social services. The initiative aims to ensure dignity and safety for drug users while addressing public health concerns.

The Faroe Islands maintain restrictive abortion laws from 1956, despite Denmark's more liberal stance since 1973. Faroese women must meet specific criteria to obtain an abortion locally, otherwise, they must travel to Denmark, which poses logistical challenges. The debate on abortion laws has resurfaced in light of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, but there is no current political momentum to change the laws in the Faroe Islands. Sólvit E. Nolsø, the minister of social affairs, and Anne Mette Greve Klemensen, chair of the Faroese Council of Ethics, highlight the sensitivity and complexity of the issue within the small community.

Greenland, a self-governing part of Denmark, will send its first diplomat to NATO, reflecting its growing involvement in foreign security and defense. Lida Skifte Lennert, an experienced diplomat, will join Denmark's representation on the North Atlantic Council. This move aligns with Greenland's increasing demand for inclusion in national defense decisions, especially amid rising Arctic tensions due to Russia's military activities. The initiative aims to strengthen Greenland's voice in international security and optimize trade and military logistics routes. Despite high tensions, Greenland emphasizes the need for future cooperation with Russia in the Arctic.

The Danish government, led by the Social Democrats, has introduced a new legislative package aimed at curbing gang recruitment, particularly targeting the recruitment of minors. The proposal includes 30 measures to tackle organized crime, such as drug trafficking and money laundering, and introduces a new criminal code section to outlaw gang recruitment of individuals under 18. The package also proposes municipal employment schemes for young people and improved information-sharing between schools, social authorities, and police. The timing of the proposal is seen as related to the upcoming national elections. Expert Steffen Bo Jensen notes the shift in focus from punitive measures to preventive strategies.

Ecuadorians voted in a historic referendum to halt oil extraction in Yasuní National Park, a move seen as a significant step in environmental conservation and climate leadership. The referendum, supported by the environmental collective Yasunidos, aims to protect the park's rich biodiversity and indigenous communities. Despite the economic importance of oil to Ecuador, the vote reflects a growing prioritization of environmental and social issues over economic gains. The decision sets a precedent for other countries and highlights the role of citizen mobilization in addressing climate change.

Sweden is grappling with a surge in street violence, highlighted by a weekend of shootings in Stockholm's Farsta neighborhood that left two dead and several injured. The incidents have sparked national concern, with political leaders like Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Social Democratic Party leader Magdalena Andersson calling for increased crime prevention measures and support for children in criminal environments. Despite a decline in fatal shootings compared to last year, the situation remains dire, with authorities mobilizing new resources to combat the violence. Experts note the involvement of young people in loosely organized criminal networks, exacerbating the challenge for law enforcement.

A landslide involving toxic material at Nordic Waste's premises in Denmark has led to significant environmental concerns and financial burdens on the government. The company's owner, Torben Østergaard Nielsen, filed for bankruptcy, leaving the government to manage the cleanup. Politicians and officials have criticized the company's actions, calling for stricter regulations and financial responsibilities for companies in high-risk industries. The Danish government is considering legislative changes to prevent similar situations in the future.

The article discusses the concerns of Danish trade unions and politicians regarding the European Commission's proposal for a debate on a European minimum wage. Despite assurances that the Nordic model of collective bargaining would not be affected, there are fears that the European Court of Justice could overrule national laws. Danish stakeholders like Johan Moesgaard Andersen of the Danish Metalworkers' Union and Bente Sorgenfrey of the Danish Trade Union Confederation are skeptical due to the lack of legal guarantees. The case of Laval u Partneri is cited as a precedent where the EU court limited the ability of trade unions to create collective agreements. The article also touches on the potential negative impact of a European minimum wage on Nordic wage negotiations and the rise of income inequality in the region.

Danish citizens are set to vote in a general election called by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen amid a scandal over the government's order to cull all minks due to a Covid-19 mutation. The Social Democratic Party aims for a broad coalition, while its main supporter, the Danish Social Liberal Party, faces a potential historic loss. The new centrist Moderates party, led by former Prime Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, could play a pivotal role. The election is marked by global crises, with health, elderly care, climate, and defense policy being key issues. Smaller parties, particularly green ones, face significant challenges.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark has called for general elections on November 1, amidst a vote of no confidence driven by the Danish Social Liberal Party over the government's handling of a mink scandal. The election campaign will address multiple crises including the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, an energy crisis, and economic challenges. Denmark's political landscape is divided, with left-wing parties advocating for welfare support and right-wing parties focusing on tax reductions and easing regulations. The new Denmark Democrats party, led by Inger Støjberg, is expected to gain significant voter support.

Denmark decided to stop using the AstraZeneca vaccine due to concerns about its side effects and the country's low COVID-19 infection rate, which made the risks outweigh the benefits. Despite endorsements from the European Medicines Agency and the World Health Organization, Danish health authorities and experts highlighted the potential for severe blood clots and the relatively low efficacy of the vaccine compared to alternatives like Pfizer. Public sentiment in Denmark shows significant hesitancy towards the AstraZeneca vaccine, with many preferring other options.

Danish far-right party Stram Kurs plans new anti-Islam protests in Stockholm, Sweden, following a Quran-burning incident in Malmo. Party leader Rasmus Paludan aims to provoke reactions to challenge the perception of Islam as a peaceful religion. Swedish authorities previously barred Paludan from entering the country, citing societal threats. Sweden's Muslim community, led by Imam Mahmoud Khalfi, advocates for calm responses, while Prime Minister Stefan Löfven criticizes the provocations. The situation raises concerns about public order and religious tolerance.

A square in Copenhagen's Frederiksberg district uses innovative tiles coated with titanium dioxide to absorb nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a harmful pollutant from transport. This technology, provided by the company Photocat, transforms NO2 into a harmless solid substance, nitrate, which is absorbable by plants. The tiles also help absorb rainwater, preventing sewer overload. While common in Asia, this technique is rare in Europe, with limited applications in public squares in Spain.

In 2014, Finland had one of the lowest turnouts among young voters in the European Parliament elections, with only 10.4 percent participating. Minimal media coverage and a lack of knowledge about the candidates and the EU's workings are cited as factors contributing to the low turnout among the youngest generation of voters across the 28 member states.