Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the island of Svalbard, lies the picturesque town of Longyearbyen, where an unusual law has stood the test of time. In fact, it is surprisingly illegal to take one’s last breath there. An intriguing fact that never fails to arouse curiosity and raise questions.
Longyearbyen, with a population of just over 2,000, offers a unique and unusual living environment. Located beyond the Arctic Circle, this small Norwegian town faces extreme environmental conditions, dominated by a harsh climate and landscapes characterized by omnipresent permafrost.
The law prohibiting death in Longyearbyen is not so much intended to regulate the end of the lives of the inhabitants, but more to preserve the safety and well-being of the community. Indeed, in an environment where the ground is constantly frozen due to permafrost, the local authorities had to put this regulation in place for practical reasons.
The challenges posed by permafrost are many. The natural decomposition of bodies is greatly compromised due to the freezing ground temperature, making burial virtually impossible. In the past, the deceased were preserved in a local cemetery. However, an alarming discovery in the 1950s highlighted the consequences of this practice: the bodies were remarkably well preserved, suggesting a risk of a resurgence of serious diseases such as the Spanish flu of 1918.
To address these health risks, Longyearbyen authorities have instituted a rule requiring seriously ill or terminally ill individuals to leave the city to receive necessary care elsewhere. This measure is intended to avoid the problems associated with managing deaths in conditions where natural decomposition of bodies is not possible.
Beyond the strictly legal aspect, this law reflects a deep concern for the health and safety of Longyearbyen residents. With limited medical resources and an inhospitable environment, it is essential to ensure the best conditions for the community. Living in Longyearbyen also means accepting the challenges of this isolated, harsh and demanding environment, where adaptation is the key to survival.
Ultimately, this unique law regarding death in Longyearbyen is a testament to the necessary harmony between man and his environment. It embodies the local authorities’ constant concern for the preservation of the health and well-being of the community, in an extraordinary natural setting.