Families were enjoying the balmy weather, pushing buggies through the well-kept parks and streets. Most people looked relaxed, happy and healthy, as indeed they should: Norway regularly comes top in the UN's global Human Development Index.
Norway is also one of the last bastions of social democracy in Europe. It still has a Labour government, unlike its neighbours. While the Norwegian Prime Minister spoke about full employment, economic growth and the importance of childcare, across the sea in Denmark, his counterpart was announcing the end of free movement in and out of his country from the rest of Europe.
Immigration divides Scandinavians, but the Nordic peoples remain united on policies for children. These are the most family-friendly countries on earth, with free or affordable childcare, generous parental leave, and excellent comprehensive schooling. Child poverty is low and child wellbeing is high.
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