The fylke reforms in Norway, effective from January 1, 2020, marked a significant restructuring of the country’s administrative divisions. The number of counties (fylker) was reduced from 19 to 11, with the goal of streamlining governance, optimizing resource allocation, and promoting regional cooperation. This was one of the most extensive reforms in modern Norwegian administrative history.

Several counties were merged to form larger administrative units. For instance, Akershus, Buskerud, and Østfold were combined into the new county of Viken, while Troms and Finnmark became Troms og Finnmark. Other regions, such as Vestfold and Telemark, also joined to create unified counties. The reform was based on the idea that larger administrative units could better address economic and social challenges by pooling resources and expertise.

Criticism and Challenges

Despite the intentions behind the reform, it faced criticism from various groups. Many argued that the new structures disregarded historical and cultural identities tied to the original counties. Local politicians and residents in some areas expressed concerns about the centralization of power and the loss of local representation. Additionally, the mergers led to practical challenges in coordinating services across larger and more diverse regions.

Reversals and Adjustments (2024)

Public dissatisfaction with the reform eventually led to changes. As of 2024, some merged counties, such as Viken, have been dissolved, and the original counties reinstated. There are now (2025) 15 fylken in Norway. The fylke reforms remain a debated topic in Norway, reflecting the tension between modernization and tradition.

>> Play our map quiz on the 15 counties of Norway

In recent years, some U.S. states have decided to change their flags to better represent their people and values. Here are three states that have made changes:

Minnesota (2024)

Minnesota changed its flag in 2024. The old flag had a complicated design with a state seal on a blue background, which many people found hard to recognize and controversial because of its imagery. The new flag is simpler and more modern. It features a light blue background with the shape of Minnesota in dark blue. Inside the shape, there is a white star, symbolizing the North Star and the state’s motto, “L’Étoile du Nord” (The Star of the North). This new design reflects Minnesota’s natural beauty and diverse population.

Utah (2024)

Utah adopted a new flag in 2024. The old flag featured the state seal on a blue background, a design many felt was outdated and similar to other state flags. The new flag includes a beehive, a symbol of industry and community, with bold stripes in red, white, and blue. These colors represent Utah’s landscapes, like its red rock canyons and snowy mountains. The new flag is simple and modern, making it easier to recognize.

Mississippi (2021)

Mississippi changed its flag in 2021. The old flag had the Confederate battle emblem, which many people saw as a symbol of racism. After years of debate, Mississippi retired the old flag in 2020. The new flag, called the “In God We Trust” flag, has a magnolia flower in the center, surrounded by stars. It also includes the words “In God We Trust.” This design honors the state’s history while promoting unity.

>> Read about recently changed country flags

Greenland, the world’s largest island, is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. Its connection to Denmark dates back to the Viking Age, when Norse settlers arrived in the 10th century. 

After centuries of colonization and governance by Denmark-Norway, Greenland became a Danish colony in 1814, following the dissolution of the union between Denmark and Norway. It was formally integrated as a Danish county in 1953 but gained home rule in 1979 and expanded self-government in 2009.

Today, Greenland governs most of its internal affairs, including education, health, and natural resources, while Denmark retains control over foreign policy, defense, and monetary matters. This special relationship reflects a mix of historical ties and strategic interests, as Greenland’s geographic location and resources make it important on the global stage.

Will Greenland Become Independent? 

The question of Greenland’s independence is often debated in politics and society. With a small population of around 56,000, Greenland faces challenges like economic reliance on Danish subsidies. However, its rich resources, including minerals, oil, and rare earth elements, could support future economic growth. Independence would give Greenland full control over these resources, a key goal for some politicians.

Cultural identity is also important in the independence debate. Many Greenlanders value their Inuit heritage and want more autonomy to protect their culture. However, practical issues, such as diversifying the economy and addressing social challenges, need to be resolved before independence is feasible.

For now, Greenland remains part of Denmark, balancing history, autonomy, and shared interests while exploring its future possibilities.

New Caledonia, a French overseas territory in the Pacific Ocean, has been at the center of independence debates for decades. Known for its stunning lagoons and rich nickel reserves, this archipelago of around 270,000 people has a unique political status and a long history of seeking greater autonomy.

The Path Toward Independence

New Caledonia’s modern independence movement gained momentum in the 1980s, culminating in the 1998 Nouméa Accord. This agreement laid the groundwork for three referendums on independence from France. The first two votes, in 2018 and 2020, resulted in narrow victories for remaining part of France. However, a third referendum in 2021, boycotted by many pro-independence voters, overwhelmingly favored staying within France.

Despite these results, the question of independence remains unresolved. Many Indigenous Kanak people, who make up about 40% of the population, support independence, viewing it as a way to reclaim their sovereignty. In contrast, other residents, particularly those of European descent, see continued ties with France as beneficial for economic stability and public services.

Challenges and Opportunities

If New Caledonia becomes independent, it would face significant challenges. The local economy relies heavily on French subsidies, and transitioning to full self-governance could be complex. Additionally, debates over resource management, particularly nickel, could become contentious. However, independence could also open doors to stronger ties with Pacific neighbors and greater control over natural resources.

What Lies Ahead?

The future of New Caledonia depends on ongoing negotiations between France and local leaders. Both sides are working to define a shared vision for the territory, whether it involves further autonomy or eventual independence.

While no timeline is set for another independence vote, New Caledonia remains a key region to watch. If it chooses independence, it could become the world’s newest country, signaling a significant shift in the Pacific’s political landscape.

Learn about all the currently independent nations in Oceania in our map quiz.

National flags serve as key symbols of a country’s identity, history, and values. Occasionally, nations choose to modify their flags to reflect political shifts, societal changes, or a renewed focus on cultural heritage. Here are some notable examples of countries that have recently made major changes to their national flags: