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What is Forbidden in Longyearbyen?

Published in Arctic Regulations 2 mins read

In Longyearbyen, a distinctive local law makes it illegal to die. This is considered one of the most unique and unusual prohibitions found anywhere in the world.

A Unique Arctic Prohibition

Longyearbyen is situated deep within the Arctic Circle on the archipelago of Svalbard, making it an exceptionally unique place. The town is known for its peculiar circumstances, including a local ordinance that has been described as bordering on the strange and bizarre.

This unusual regulation is not merely a suggestion but a formal prohibition, meaning that individuals are not permitted to pass away within the town's boundaries. The law underscores the extraordinary conditions and unique governance of this remote Arctic settlement.

Understanding the Law

The direct consequence of this law is that if someone is gravely ill or nearing the end of their life, they are typically transported out of Longyearbyen to other parts of Norway to ensure the law is upheld. This unique regulation is a testament to the distinct challenges and specific characteristics of life in the high Arctic.

Aspect of the Law Detail
Location Longyearbyen, Svalbard (Arctic Circle)
Forbidden Act Dying within the town's limits
Nature of Law A unique, strange, and bizarre local regulation