Nordic network for physical activity

The purpose of the network is to strengthen Nordic collaboration to increase physical activity in a health promotion, social and multi-sectoral perspective. The network aims to contribute to the efficient use of resources and ensure that knowledge and experiences of work to increase physical activity in the countries is more easily shared across the Nordic region, so that we can learn from each other to a greater extent and work more efficiently.

A more physically active population contribute to better health and quality of life

Based on a sharing of experiences and knowledge, the network has the potential to strengthen knowledge and capacity around physical activity. Through the topics discussed and initiatives that may be launched nationally, the network will be able to contribute to reducing social inequality, creating more social justice, preventing physical and mental illness, increasing productivity and resource utilisation, and contributing to the green transition in the countries. The network will thus contribute actively to the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Vision 2030. Increased physical activity could also contribute to achieving many of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, such as the goals of quality education, economic growth, sustainable cities, innovation and infrastructure, reduced inequalities, climate action, and health and well-being.

Background to the network

As an element of Norway’s presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers in 2022, the first digital Nordic conference on physical activity was held. The conference came about through a collaboration between several Nordic countries. Work on the conference created a basis for strengthening Nordic collaboration on physical activity. At their meeting in autumn 2022, the countries made a decision at the Committee of Senior Officials for Health and Social Affairs (EK-S) to establish a Nordic network to continue strengthening Nordic collaboration on physical activity.

In mid-2023, EK-S approved the network’s mandate for the period 2023-2025. The presidency of the network mirrors the presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

Primary tasks of the network according to their mandate

• Sharing of experiences and learning examples about the work in the individual Nordic countries. This may, for example, be across or within not only monodisciplinary and interdisciplinary work, but also cross-sectoral work of the sectors on issues such as planning, mobility, monitoring, implementation, recommendations, effective measures, communication, innovation, digitalisation, research and international collaboration.
• Discuss challenges and opportunities in work to strengthen physical activity and contribute to increased awareness of these across the Nordic countries.