The EU Arctic Forum meets in Finland to discuss regional challenges

Recent geopolitical and geoeconomic developments are exacerbating long-known challenges across the Arctic, in particular climate change and its impacts. With its strong strategic interests, in particular in the European Arctic, it is essential for the EU to take stock of recent developments in the region in order to promote sustainable economic development and prosperity, fight climate change, protect the Arctic environment, and support local people.

The EU is  organising the annual EU Arctic Forum, Indigenous Peoples’ Dialogue and Arctic Youth Dialogue, starting tomorrow in Kittilä, Finland. The event will gather high-level representatives from EU and Arctic countries, indigenous communities, researchers, NGOs, business representatives and youth organisations.

The Commissioner for Fisheries and Ocean, Costas Kadis will be opening the stage at this two-day high-level event:

“The EU is committed to support the economic and social well-being of the Arctic communities. Arctic communities and their cultural heritage are unique, and their way of life needs to be preserved. With our presence in Kittilä, we will show once again, our commitment to the sustainable and peaceful development of the Arctic.”

The Arctic Forum, Indigenous Peoples Dialogue and Arctic Youth Dialogue set out ambitious goals aimed at addressing critical challenges in the Arctic, such as including indigenous communities and youth in policy-shaping processes, facilitating international and regional cooperation, and promoting Arctic research and science.

The discussion will also centre on combating climate change and climate adaptation, promoting sustainable economic activities, and safeguarding biodiversity.

The latest Arctic science and research projects will present their key achievements and advancements in climate change observation, monitoring, modelling, and forecasting. They will also present cutting-edge tools, applications, and technologies driving innovation in the Arctic. 

Insights gathered during these two days will serve as a foundation for the EU’s future discussions in the Arctic, ensuring that the EU remains a strong and reliable partner.

Fostering cooperation in the Arctic

The EU Arctic Forum, Indigenous Peoples Dialogue and Arctic Youth Dialogue provide an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between the EU, its Arctic Member States  and like-minded Arctic countries. Promoting cooperation in the Arctic and the Arctic Ocean is a key regional objective of the newly established European Ocean Pact.

As highlighted in the EU Arctic policy, the EU is committed to maintaining the Arctic as a region of peace, stability and cooperation. Enhancing the region’s resilience also supports EU priorities on climate action, security and multilateral cooperation.

More information

EU Arctic Forum, Indigenous Peoples’ Dialogue and Arctic Youth Dialogue