ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses a historical survey of Nordic cooperation in the voluntary sector in its broader transnational context. The chapter seeks to assess the significance of cooperation among voluntary organizations to the creation of Norden as a region and of a transnational public sphere more generally. It examines the relationship between Nordic cooperation in the voluntary sector and intergovernmental cooperation. Nordic voluntary cooperation has developed incrementally on the basis of similar political cultures, common interests on various matters and an acknowledgement of the stronger standing of small states in international arenas when they join forces. The Nordic popular movements were fashioned by transnational contacts and exchange within the region. Nordic cooperation remains relevant as a means for Nordic organizations to present a united face to the outside world, preparing the ground for participation in larger international organizations such as the European Union (EU) or UN.
