Arctic research is international by nature. The very fast Arctic changes, the geopolitical situation and the upcoming International Polar Year (IPY-5) requires collaboration across borders. The Nordic countries have a long tradition of collaborating in many areas. NordForsk provides funding and facilitates Nordic cooperation on research and research infrastructure, also included non-Nordic countries.
All the Nordic countries are Arctic countries and have strategies and priorities for Arctic research. In the coming years, these priorities will be a basis for the countries’ involvement in IPY-5. International collaboration will become even more important towards the next International Polar Year (IPY-5) 2032-2033 and it is vital to make the best use of national resources. That can include funding, infrastructure, observations and how to use and store long-term data.
The Arctic is not uniform, but the Arctic Ocean and land masses should be managed holistically across many different management areas and beyond national borders. The resilience of the different geographical areas of the Arctic is a critical concern, encompassing the ability of its ecosystems and communities to adapt to and recover from rapid environmental, economic and social changes. Can its ecosystems withstand the accelerating pace of change? How well are Arctic societies and municipalities prepared for both current challenges and uncertain futures?
These are not only environmental questions, but lie at the intersection of science, policy, and diplomacy. Protecting the Arctic is not only about preserving biodiversity but also about defending a way of life that holds lessons for global sustainability. Therefore, Arctic resilience is both a regional necessity and a global concern.
This session will explore how Nordic and international collaboration can add value to Arctic research. Presentations on national priorities in Arctic research from Nordic research councils and a panel debate on opportunities for future Nordic-led international research.
This event is hosted by the Research Council of Norway.
Speakers
Rune Vistad, Director, Department for International CooperationThe Research Council of Norway and Chair of the Board of NordForsk.
Sven Stafström, Professor at Linköping University
