Svalbard and Jan Mayen

Svalbard and Jan Mayen form two separate Norwegian territories in the Arctic Ocean with several islands and wide waters. The two regions lie hundreds of kilometers apart and are managed as a single statistical unit.

The Svalbard Treaty of 1920 gave Norway sovereignty over both territories and created a special legal status. Earlier centuries had brought whalers and explorers from several European countries to these Arctic waters.

The settlements carry Scandinavian names and reflect Norwegian administrative tradition in Arctic regions. Scientists from different countries work at research stations and bring international influences to the remote community.

The territories are accessible only with special preparation, as Arctic climate and long distances require strict planning. Summer months offer longer daylight hours, while winter brings polar night and extreme cold.

The territories appear together in statistical reports even though they are geographically far apart. Jan Mayen is inhabited only by rotating staff, while Svalbard has permanent settlements.