Oslo is in full bloom! May is always a special month in Norway, as Norwegians celebrate their Constitution Day. On May 17, 1814, the Norwegian Constitution was signed at Eidsvoll. Don’t miss the marching bands from schools and associations in Oslo as they play in front of the Royal Palace, enjoy the colourful traditional garments (bunads), and get a glimpse of the Royal Family greeting the children’s parade from the balcony of the Palace. Above all, enjoy the cheerfulness and festive mood! Children especially are looking forward to this day as it means lots of games, treats and ice cream.
We would like to update you on our work since the last Newsletter. On March 31, the Board had a meeting with the Forum’s Executive Committee followed by its regular Board meeting. We were very pleased that Marianne Fredriksen, Senior Advisor in the Section for Diplomatic Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was able to join us for parts of the meeting. Marianne is our new contact in the Ministry.
In our meeting with the Executive Committee, we allotted much time to discussing Forum’s mission statement. We want to increase the benefits for our members and strengthen the social component of International Forum.
To increase focus and efficiency, we also decided to reduce the yearly number of Board meetings. From now on, the Board will meet six times a year, including three meetings of the Executive Committee. In the coming months, we shall also revisit the Statutes of International Forum to see if any changes may be needed. The Board will also discuss the Guidelines and other items that need to be addressed prior to the Annual General Meeting on June 2.
We cannot thank enough the leaders of the committees and their team members – Gunnel Anita, Jane, Mona, Elizabeth, Sonia, and Elspeth – for their dedication and excellent work. You are the pillars of International Forum.
As always, if you have any comments, questions, or ideas, please do let us know.
Best wishes,
The Board