Starting 2010

Then 2009, PRIO’s 50th Anniversary year, is over and done with. We are in our 51st year. And unlike those (virtually everybody) who think 1 January 2010 starts a new decade, we are not fooling ourselves. We are definitely starting the second part of our first century of existence.

It feels good to be back at PRIO, and to see most PRIOites returning, refreshed and reenergized. Many of those I talked to on Monday said things such as: ‘I have had a wonderful holiday, but it feels good to be back at PRIO. I realize that I really like my colleagues, that this is a special place for me.’ A wonderful way to start a new year.

I have snuck in a few times during the break, and have observed the ever sorrier state of our beloved Christmas three. Entering from the backyard on Monday at 730, it had mysteriously disappeared (and it was there only hours before!). Not so mysterious, the pine needles straddling the stairs to the courtyard told tales of a rough battle between man and nature. Cathrine, of course, had decided to spare us all of the sorry morning greeting of a needleless Christmas three, and came in early.

It is particularly nice to be able to start the new year with a brand new strategy. The 2010-2013 strategy – with language polish (by John) and fresh lay-out (by Jørgen) – landed at PRIO today. The soft version is on the web, the hard version should be in your pigeonholes. Implementation is underway. The Leader Group will have an extraordinary (full day; at my place) meeting to discuss concrete follow-up on the 25th. I shall keep you all posted. Meanwhile: Happy reading! Happy New Year!