Almost in Russia

Original title Almost in Russia

Kirkenes, a small border town in the far north-eastern part of Norway, has built an identity on its relationship with the Russian neighbours. Even the local tourism industry brings the Western visitors to see the border. In 2022, however, Russia declares war on Ukraine and the town is in shock: all cross-border contact is suspended, yet they are still neighbours. What about tourists, will they come anymore? Those who still visit join tours to gaze towards Russia and experience tension reminiscent of the Cold War period. But who actually feels the tension and is it really there?

Author/s Sanni Naukkarinen

Sanni Naukkarinen holds a degree in visual anthropology from The Arctic University of Norway. She is interested in places and in how space and place are perceived, and has published an audio play series discussing places from a personal point of view.