Svalbard and Jan Mayen have a special political and legal status. Svalbard, governed under the Svalbard Treaty of 1920, recognizes Norwegian sovereignty but allows citizens of over 40 countries to live and work there without visas. This makes Svalbard unique, with residents from around the globe forming an international community. Taxes are lower than in mainland Norway, and regulations are adapted to its Arctic environment. Jan Mayen, on the other hand, is uninhabited except for staff at a Norwegian military and meteorological station. Its main importance lies in scientific research and weather monitoring. Together, these territories highlight Norway’s role in the Arctic and showcase how governance adapts to extreme environments.
