NATION 1 Faroe Islands - the connected nation

The first in a series of films with Lesley Riddoch exploring Scotland's inspiring northern European neighbours and what we can learn.
Despite being a remote cluster of islands with population of just 50 thousand people (1% of Scots pop.), the Faroe Islands certainly don't think small. The Faroes took on global giant Google to protect their language and identity and have also created the world's fastest mobile broadband (a reserved issue in Scotland). The key factor in these success stories has been the Faroes Parliament: without doubt, the world's most powerful devolved parliament. This wee nation relies heavily on fish which represents around 95% of exports but life in the Faroes is changing. A new generation, enthused by a proximity to political power, are shaping these traditionally conservative islands into progressive society that more and more want to live in. The Faroes is also finding itself at the centre of things as the Arctic presents new opportunities. The Faroese community connects in all kinds of ways - through tunnels that join the separate islands, by air to the rest of the world with its own national airline and is reconnecting with nature to create world-class food. There's a lot to reflect upon about the future of the Faroes and Scotland but the ultimate connection is clear: with power comes the confidence to build a better nation.

Created by Lesley Riddoch and Phantom Power Films.

[papaquonis]

As long as the Faroese want to be part of the Kingdom of Denmark, I'm happy and proud to have them. And when they feel like it's time (probably within my lifetime) to stand entirely on their own as a fully independent nation, I'll be rooting for them and hoping they succeed. I really need to visit, it always looks like such an amazing place.

[twistychristie]

This is the way I want to see Scotland develop. Make our own decisions, embrace Gaelic language, culture and produce quality products. Thank you for sharing, Faroe Islands!

[DeineOmaHeisstHeinz]

Two minutes in and I got the biggest crush on this island group that I didn't know anything about two minutes ago.

[Biglake]

Amazing country! I’ve ordered salmon from Faroe Islands . Their salmon is one of the best in the world. I didn’t even know where the Faroe Islands were. The taste of the salmon is the freshest and tastiest as if I just got from the local store. I can still feel the taste. It’s out of this world especially where I live. Thank you!

[fuzzylogics]

How awesome, just 30 minutes ago I was looking at a map and saying to myself "what actually are these islands there? People live there?" Yes, I had heard about these islands in grade school but this is the first time in my adult life.. So, broadened my horizon tonight! Thank you for this video, thank you for the education.

[robertofranciscomonsalvesp]

Homogeneity, cohesion and will make a nation( big or small) give the best of itself in behalf of its citizens. Great documentary. Thanks.

[aceshigh]

My father was posted there in WW2, I have a photo of him by a sign that says SORVAGUR QUAY 3/4 of a mile.

[pasoslargos]

I'm just sitting in shock of the brilliance and then she says "I think people, at best, think we're a bit naive."

No, I think you're brilliant

[NickC-Ohio]

I was led here from a google image search of a snipped screensaver of the Faroe cliffs; sitting at home in Ohio, USA. You're not only talking to your own countrymen anymore; you're providing insight to heal and build the whole world! Thanks a lot!

[galgo_fran]

Today the guy from the boat becomes a grandfather again... so happy grandfathering (if that makes any sense)!

[roccobot]

I was there just a week before the Arctic Circle Forum and I could literally breathe the change. Everybody should take this incredible success story as an example of how far good administration and good ideas can bring a society. As an Italian, I'm pretty confident to say that this can't work everywhere (unfortunately), but Nordic countries (and Scotland, if I know Scots well enough) have the right mindset and enough resources to go on being not only successful but also a benchmark of what a highly developed country should be.

[timdavis]

Fantastic country, much love from Ireland

[fnn]

I just love the Faroe Islands! The best food I can get is winddried lamb and winddried grind! - their national dishes, I think. The people are pretty and lovely and so friendly. This would be the experience of your life! I visited 4 times - you don't believe it before you visit it. Magic! (I'm from Denmark)

[mba]

Can´t wait to stay there. In April at our honeymoon we will stay for some Weeks. I´m so impressed of this small an beatiful Country.

[ritchelitaragojos]

Since I've watched first documentary of this lovely island my heart in love in this place so I'd always watching about it ..I wish someday before I get 50 years old I will see this stunning wonderful place😊..

[ArchFundy]

Very impressive. A strong and proud people. Kudos from Canada.

[dannyodonnell]

Wow, i am absolutely over the moon i clicked on this, what an amazing wee place and great documentary. Much love and respect from sunny Scotland

[ABCDoris]

This was a brilliant wee film about a brilliant wee neighbour. Thanks! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿❤️

[HerrTelef]

I have never been on Faroe Islands but for unknown reasons I'm a fan of this place. So I was happy when I got my National Faroe Soccer Trikot before World cup 2018 started!
Someday we will meet.
Lovely Greetings from the North West Germany

[PauloFerreira-wpit]

Faroe Islands is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing. Greetings from Brazil 🇧🇷 🌈🦜🌈🦜🌈🦜🔆🔆🔆🎊🎉🎊🎉🎊🌴🌴🌴🌴