Impact stories are a short format we use to provide an overview of the
research process from results and outputs, to outcomes and impact. These
are constructed to swiftly communicate the significance of projects we have
chosen to highlight.
Lessons from Ukrainian Refugee Integration in the Nordic-Baltic Region
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 forced millions to flee, creating one of the largest refugee movements in Europe in recent decades. The INFLUX project analysed how Ukrainian refugees have been integrated in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, and Lithuania, revealing major differences in outcomes.
The project produced seven policy briefs and the report Refugee Integration and Governance in the Nordic-Baltic Region, providing direct input to policymakers. The findings give governments tools to improve and streamline refugee integration policies and strengthen inclusive development across the Nordic-Baltic region.
Science-Based Solutions for Sustainable Fruit and Berry Farming
Fruit and berry production in the Nordic and Baltic countries faces a difficult balance: the European Union aims to reduce fertiliser and pesticide use, but this could lower yields in a region already marked by low self-sufficiency. In Estonia, for example, only 10 to 12 percent of consumed fruit is locally produced. The InNoBaHort project brings together researchers from Estonia, Finland, Sweden, Norway and Lithuania to develop science-based solutions that allow farmers to maintain yields while reducing environmental impacts.
Experiments in Finland and Estonia show that reducing nitrogen fertiliser by up to one third in strawberries does not necessarily affect yields, opening the door to more sustainable fertilisation practices. Researchers in Lithuania are testing biological alternatives to fungicides against grey mold, with some plant-based preparations already proving more effective than chemical treatments. In Sweden and Norway, scientists are studying European canker in apples and breeding for more resistant cultivars, while Norwegian teams are developing disease forecasting models to help farmers time fungicide use more precisely.
The project provides practical tools and new knowledge that safeguards local food production and supports a more sustainable agriculture across the region.
Better Follow-Up for Childhood Cancer Survivors
The Nordic ALL-Star project was building a Nordic platform to study long-term health among survivors of childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), the most common childhood cancer. Cure rates for ALL in the Nordics now exceed 90%, which is some of the best in the world, but many survivors face serious side effects from treatment.
Preliminary findings revealed that repeated blood transfusions can lead to high ferritin levels, a risk factor not traditionally screened for. As a result, all survivors in the Nordic countries are now screened for ferritin, allowing earlier interventions to protect organ function. Upcoming analyses will further guide screening and treatment strategies.
By combining data from across the Nordic region, ALL-STAR provided new evidence to improve clinical practice, patient outcomes, and long-term quality of life for childhood cancer survivors.
Strengthening Climate Preparedness in Remote Nordic Communities
Extreme weather is becoming more frequent in the Nordic region, with avalanches, floods, fires, and landslides affecting small and remote communities that often lack immediate access to large emergency services.
The CliCNord project studied how these communities can better prepare for climate risks and found that engaging citizens, civil society, and the private sector strengthens crisis management and creates shared responsibility.
The project produced practical recommendations for local authorities, including expanding fire brigades’ roles on Danish islands and simplifying flood protection rules. By turning research into concrete guidelines, CliCNord helps Nordic communities improve resilience against extreme weather.
Recommendations to Improve Recovery from Long-Term Health Consequences of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic left many with longterm health challenges, known as post-COVID condition (PCC), which strain individuals, health systems, and economies.
A Nordic expert group coordinated by NordForsk has published a policy paper on PCC, calling for multidisciplinary research on causes, treatment, and rehabilitation, as well as stronger Nordic collaboration platforms. The recommendations have already been translated into action, with NordForsk launching new calls that created three Nordic PCC research networks starting in 2025.
The initiative ensures that lessons from COVID-19 are used to strengthen Nordic preparedness for future health crises.
Understanding Edge Intelligence through Nordic Expertise
Most artificial intelligence today relies on large, centralised clouds, but this model poses risks for privacy, security, and efficiency.
The NUEI project is advancing edge intelligence by decentralising AI to local “mini-clouds” and smart devices. This strengthens privacy, reduces latency, and improves resilience.
A collaboration among four Nordic universitiesis generating experience directly relevant for the rollout of 6G standards. The project provides Nordic societies with tools to build a more secure and trustworthy digital infrastructure.