“Illegal” to Die?
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Longyearbyen is located on the Svalbard archipelago, deep within the Arctic Circle. It’s known for its extreme cold and remoteness, and the town experiences some of the harshest temperatures on Earth.
While this remote location has its perks, such as stunning natural beauty and a tight-knit community, it also presents significant challenges. One of the main issues is the permafrost. The ground remains frozen year-round, which makes it impossible for bodies to decompose naturally.
In fact, the preservation of bodies in Longyearbyen became a serious concern when researchers discovered that corpses buried in the local cemetery were not decomposing, even after decades.
More troubling still, some bodies, including those of individuals who had died from the Spanish flu in 1918, still carried infectious viruses. This posed a public health risk, as any thawing of the permafrost could release these viruses into the environment, potentially causing an outbreak.
The issue came to a head in the 1950s, when researchers realized the public health risk. As a result, the authorities decided to close the cemetery and prohibit new burials in Longyearbyen. This is the origin of the myth that “it’s illegal to die” in the town.
In reality, no law directly prohibits death in Longyearbyen. However, if someone dies in the town, their body must be transported to the mainland for burial. While cremation is allowed, even that requires a special permit.
People who are terminally ill or in need of serious medical care are required to leave Longyearbyen for treatment, as the town lacks the necessary medical facilities for extreme health conditions.
More Than Just a Death Policy
Longyearbyen has other regulations that are influenced by its extreme environment. For instance, pregnant women are advised not to give birth in the town, as there are no facilities for childbirth. Expectant mothers are advised to relocate to the mainland at least a month before their due date to ensure a safe delivery.
Despite these stringent rules, Longyearbyen is a self-sufficient town with a resilient community. Its residents live with the unique challenges posed by their surroundings, including long periods of darkness in the winter and the constant threat of polar bears.
Strange as the laws about death and other things may be, they are rooted in a very real concern for public health and safety.