Niclassen family returns to Faroe Islands after two decades in Denmark

The Niclassen family has made the significant move back to the Faroe Islands after living in Denmark for nearly two decades. Tina Niclassen, along with her husband and their three children, expressed a longing for their kids to grow up in the Faroe Islands, near their grandparents. The family believes that staying in Denmark was beneficial for years, but now they feel it’s the right time to return home.

Tina, who made the decision to study in Denmark at the age of 22, initially wanted to explore new opportunities outside of the Faroe Islands. It was a spontaneous choice driven by her husband’s job offer, which delayed their return to the islands. They were initially hesitant to move back, especially with a child who has special needs, and they felt that the support available in Denmark was more suitable at that time.

Now, after contemplating a return for several years, Tina emphasizes the importance of family connections and a familiar environment for their children. However, the decision is still uncertain as the parents weigh their options. While their children would choose to stay in the Faroe Islands, the couple is concerned about the limited professional opportunities there compared to Denmark, where they have better salaries and favorable work conditions.

Despite the challenges, the decision to try living in the Faroe Islands is a trial for the time being, as they navigate their future that remains open-ended. Their experiences reflect a broader trend, as around 40% of young people from the islands move abroad for education, with a mere half returning home.