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NORWAY EXPLAINED

Mythbuster: Are Norwegians all incredibly tall?

When it comes to stereotypes about different countries and their populations, Norwegians being exceptionally tall is a commonly held one. But is there any truth to it?

Norwegian man
Is there any truth to the notion that Norwegians are incredibly tall, or is it just a myth? Photo by Johannes Andersson on Unsplash

The tall Norwegian. This stereotype has been perpetuated for decades, from popular culture references to anecdotal observations.

But is there any truth to the notion that Norwegians are significantly taller than the global average, or is it just a myth?

From height studies and Norwegian celebrities to lifestyle factors, we look at what’s behind this widespread belief.

The Nordics: What height data says

When it comes to height in the Nordics, Norway doesn’t stand out. According to data compiled by Insider in 2019, which drew from the medical database known as the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration, Norway ranked 18th in the world for height, with an average height of 173.45 centimetres.

To delve deeper into the specifics, the mean height for men in Norway averaged 180.5 centimetres, while for women, it came in at 166.4 centimetres. This difference in height is consistent with global trends, where men tend to be taller than women on average.

In the Nordics, Norway’s neighbours boasted more impressive heights. Finland, for instance, was in 17th place globally, with an average height of 173.55 centimetres. Finnish men had an average height of 180.6 centimetres, while women had an average height of 166.5 centimetres.

Sweden ranked 15th globally with an average height of 173.6 centimetres. Swedish men averaged 180.5 centimetres in height, while women averaged 166.7 centimetres.

Iceland took the 5th spot on the global height ranking list, with an average height of 175.5 centimetres. Icelandic men had an impressive mean height of 182.1 centimetres, while women had an average height of 168.9 centimetres.

Denmark closely followed Iceland with an average height of 175.7 centimetres, placing it 4th on the global list. Danish men stood out as notably tall, with an average height of 181.9 centimetres, while women had an average height of 169.5 centimetres.

At the top of the list, leading not only in the Nordics but also globally, was the Netherlands, with an average height of 177.1 centimetres. Dutch men averaged 183.8 centimetres in height, while Dutch women had an average height of 170.4 centimetres.

Bergen hiking

Many Norwegians lead active lifestyles, with outdoor activities being very popular. Regular physical activity can contribute to overall health. Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash

Looking beyond the data

The height statistics reflect the genetic makeup of the Nordic populations but also underscore the importance of factors such as diet, healthcare, and overall quality of life in influencing growth patterns.

While not particularly high compared to the other Nordic countries, Norway certainly holds its own when it comes to the heights of its population when it comes to its global ranking – being above the global average (but not exceptionally so).

But are there other factors driving the typical stereotype of Norwegian height?

Tall Norwegian celebrities

There have been some famous Norwegians who are notably tall, and their prominence in the public eye can sometimes contribute to the stereotype.

One prominent example is Kristofer Hivju, the Norwegian actor best known for his role as Tormund Giantsbane in the popular TV series “Game of Thrones.”

Hivju’s stature, at roughly 184 centimetres, made him a memorable character on the show. His height became a talking point among fans, and it’s not uncommon for people to associate his height with a perceived Norwegian norm, even though it’s not representative of the entire population.

Another well-known Norwegian who has contributed to this stereotype is Magne Furuholmen, a member of the internationally acclaimed band A-ha.

Magne is often recognised for his tall and slender figure, standing at ca. 189 centimetres. As A-ha gained fame with their hit song “Take On Me” in the 1980s, his height became a characteristic that some might associate with Norwegian musicians.

However, it’s important to note that while individuals like Hivju and Furuholmen are celebrated for their talents and unique physical attributes, they do not represent the entire Norwegian population.

Norwegians come in various heights, just like people from any other country, and it would be unfair and inaccurate to generalise based on the stature of a few well-known celebrities.

Factors influencing height

Several factors contribute to the relatively tall stature of Norwegians.

Norwegian genetics may contribute to their average height, but it’s essential to note that many other factors, in turn, interact with genetics.

Norway’s strong emphasis on healthcare and a high standard of living ensures that its citizens have access to good nutrition, and we know that adequate nutrition during childhood and adolescence is crucial for achieving one’s maximum height potential. 

Furthermore, many Norwegians lead active lifestyles, with outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing being popular. This sort of regular physical activity can contribute to overall health and well-being.

So, while the myth of Norwegians being exceptionally tall persists, the reality is somewhat less dramatic.

Norwegians tend to be taller on average compared to some other populations, but their height is within the range of variation seen worldwide.

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NORWAY EXPLAINED

What parental benefits are you entitled to as a freelancer in Norway?

For newcomers to Norway, navigating the world of parental benefits can be complex, especially if you're a freelancer.

What parental benefits are you entitled to as a freelancer in Norway?

Navigating a foreign country’s administrative and social support systems can often feel overwhelming, particularly if you don’t fit the standard of a typical employee with a permanent contract.

This complexity is more pronounced for freelancers, who must contend with specific challenges – such as changing income levels and varying definitions of their work status.

READ MORE: What parents in Norway need to know before going on parental leave

The fact that Norway is a country renowned for its generous social benefits and high standard of living doesn’t make this situation different from other countries.

Understanding – and accessing – parental benefits as a freelancer can be confusing, especially when it comes to parental allowance.

Defining freelancers in Norway

While many freelancers in Norway operate as sole proprietors (ENK), the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV) has a special definition in place for freelancers.

Under Norwegian regulations, freelancers are considered independent contractors who receive a salary fee (also called salaried freelancers).

In contrast, those running an ENK are classified as self-employed.

This distinction can be confusing because most freelancers in Norway are, in fact, self-employed and call themselves freelancers.

That’s why, when consulting NAV’s information on parental allowance or using their online site, those with an ENK should view and declare themselves as “self-employed” rather than “freelancers.”

So, if you contact NAV to inquire about your rights, explain your business arrangement in detail.

Psst! If you are considering setting up as a freelancer in Norway, make sure to read The Local’s in-depth guide on the options at your disposal.

Understanding your social rights as a freelancer

As a freelancer in Norway, your social rights differ from those of traditional employees.

Unlike employees, freelancers are not entitled to sick pay from their clients. However, they are eligible for sick pay from the NAV starting from the 17th day of illness.

READ MORE: What are the rules for foreigners accessing welfare in Norway

To enhance their coverage, they can also opt for voluntary supplementary insurance.

Furthermore, freelancers do not benefit from a pension scheme provided by clients, so they need to look into a personal pension plan to ensure financial security in retirement.

Under certain conditions, freelancers may be eligible for unemployment benefits.

If you need clarification on whether you qualify, contact the NAV and share the specifics of your case with them.

Parental benefits for freelancers

Parents in Norway, including freelancers, are entitled to 12 months’ leave in connection with a birth of their child.

This leave period includes the mother’s right to up to 12 weeks’ leave during pregnancy and six weeks’ leave that can only be taken by the mother after the birth.

Furthermore, all welfare benefits for freelancers and the self-employed in the country are based on the profit of their businesses.

This profit is the amount remaining after deducting business expenses.

For instance, if you invoice 600,000 kroner annually and have 150,000 kroner in expenses (such as office space, travel, and equipment), NAV will use your profit of 450,000 kroner to calculate your benefits, including parental allowance.

The maximum benefit amount is capped at six times the National Insurance basic amount (1G), which, as of May 1st, 2023, is 118,620 kroner.

This cap applies to freelancers, wage earners, and others eligible for benefits.

Calculating parental allowance

For self-employed individuals, parental allowance is typically calculated based on the average income over the last three years, with the NAV obtaining this data from the Tax Agency.

Note: If your profits have fluctuated significantly over the period or if you have been in business for less than three years, you will need to provide the NAV with a detailed description of how your business operates and makes money.

Based on that information, they will conduct an individual assessment and make a discretionary decision regarding the amount you will be paid for parental allowance.

On the other hand, the rules for salaried freelancers and those with a limited company (AS) mirror those for regular employees.

Parental allowance is generally based on the average income from the three months preceding the start of the parental benefit period.

If there is a significant difference (over 25 percent) between your annual income and your recent three-month income, NAV will determine which figure is more representative.

Parental allowance can be taken consecutively or in combination with work or holidays.

For more detailed information, you can check out NAV’s guidelines on parental allowance.

Alternatives for those not entitled to parental allowance

Even if one or both parents are not entitled to parental allowance, they still have the right to parental leave.

In such cases, the mother can apply for a one-off benefit, and in certain circumstances, the father can too.

Additionally, as employee interest organisations often point out, the parent who has not accrued the right to parental allowance can begin to accrue this right while the other parent is on leave.

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