Harstad – Norway
Else Marie Stenhaug is the current mayor of Harstad.
Harstad is a city located on Hinnøya, the largest island in Norway. It serves as a municipal center in Troms county, situated above the Arctic Circle in the northern part of the country. Harstad is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including music festivals like the annual Festival of Northern Norway, and historical sites such as the Trondenes Church, which dates back to the medieval period.
“We triumph by sharing.That’s what this community is all about.”
Kari-Anne Opsal, Mayor of Harstad
Harstad has a diverse population of approximately 25,000 residents. The demographics reflect a mix of native Norwegians and a growing number of immigrants, contributing to the city’s multicultural environment. Still we face a growing numbers of senior people in the years to come.
Goals for Arctic Mayors’ Forum membership include community engagement, exchange of best practises, and better communication.
Quick facts
Population
- English name: Harstad
- Name local languages: Harstad
- Population: 25 056
- Largest metropolitan area: Harstad
- Population Harstad: 21 289
Language and culture
- Traditional territory of: The Saami People
- Languages spoken: Norwegian
Work and education
- Mayor industries: Public sector – health and social services, teaching and general public administration, Merchandise trade, Construction, Technological services, Maritime services, Commercial services, Accommodation and restaurants
- Higher education: UiT The Arctic University of Norway
Arctic Mayors’ Forum
- Joined: 2023