Common identity, does it exist?

Is there a common Barents identity? Will it ever arise? Do we wish for it?
The different countries have some of the same problems and qualities. Can these factors be used when we as outsiders define the Barents Identity?

Through the years the people in this region have struggled a lot. Both when it comes to man against nature and man against man. Today the struggle has shifted to man against economy. A growing problem is the lack of jobs. Young people are forced to move to the south to get a job. The region is in desperate need of new and innovating jobs. The problems grow even more when we look to the east. The poverty rate of Russia has improved a great deal. But the differences are still huge. The health system is in desperate need of upgrade. Will the relationship in the Barents Region help this development? Can we cover up the big gap between Russia and the other countries? Can we in the welfare state of Norway share the same identity as a beagger in Russia? Are the common qualities/problems strong enough to bulid a new region upon?

A shift in industry and resources
The discovery of natural resources has led to a great focus of the north.Oil,gas,wood, fish and minerals can bring the region closer together in terms of exchanging knowledge and technology. But will the outcome of the resources affect the ones who really needs it? Will the life quality be better for the whole region or will some small groups of people get all the benefits? It is important that a strong country as Norway set the standard at an early time.

It is difficult to grasp the common identity at this point. Writing this task leads to many unanswered questions. But we are on our way!