Grindadráp
In the harbour of Havannasund, on the island of Vidoy, excitement was high. The black bodies of whales laid on the ground were waiting to be split into pieces. Others, loaded onto trucks and ferries, were about to set off for neighbouring destinations.
The Faroe Islands are an archipelago of 18 islands in the Atlantic Ocean. From June to October each year, local fishermen take part in the Grindadráp – the hunt for grindworms. The meat of the hunted mammals is divided according to strict rules. The neediest get first, followed by the hunters and fishermen. This is part of a local tradition that dates back to Viking times. Hundreds of years ago, grindstone meat provided enough food for the inhabitants for a whole year. Today, the economic and business situation of the Faroe Islands is completely different. Due to globalisation, food imports from Europe and social progress, the younger part of the population believes that it is time to put an end to hunting. However, the vast majority are in favour of continuing the tradition, claiming that it is an integral part of their cultural identity as a fishing nation. 90% of the Faroe Islands' exports are fishing.
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Awards:
June, 2021
