13:00–14:00 | Venue: Arktikum | Polarium
Organizer: John Nurminen Foundation

John Nurminen Foundation presents in the JNF Baltic Sea Talks series “Bridging the Oceans”

The event will begin with a screening of short documentary films that explore themes related to the Baltic Sea and the Arctic. The screening will be followed by a discussion with invited guests:

• Liisa Holmberg (Film Commissioner and CEO, Arctic Indigenous Film Fund)
• Ilona Mettiäinen (Environmental Social Scientist, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)
• Ulla Rosenström (Director of Marine Environment, John Nurminen Foundation)

The audience is welcome to join the discussion as we turn our thoughts toward the Arctic and the Baltic Sea, and reflect on the deep and intertwined relationship between humans and nature.

The screening is made possible by the Arctic Indigenous Film Fund and Tvärminne Zoological Station, University of Helsinki.

Keskustelutilaisuus Suomen arktisesta politiikasta in Finnish

Tässä paneelissa tarkastelemme, miten Suomen arktinen strategia on muuttunut vuosien varrella. Keskustelun ytimessä on nykytila: missä mennään nyt, kun koko arktisen alueen strategia on haastavassa tilanteessa. Tällä hetkellä Suomen huomio kohdistuu pitkälti rajattuun Pohjoisen ohjelman toimeenpanoon. Paneelissa kysymme, olemmeko oikealla tiellä – ja olisiko aika vahvistaa laajempaa, arktiseen alueeseen keskittyvää strategiaa.

Panelistit:

• Nina Brander (Secretary General of the Arctic Advisory Board | Finnish Prime Minister's Office)
• Timo Koivurova (Recearch Professor, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)
• Johanna Ikävalko (Director, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Moderaattori: Aleksis Oreschnikoff (University of Helsinki)

We Make the Future! Utopias of a Climate-Responsible World 2035 – Arctic Snapshots

The launch of the audio comic scenario report produced in the “Climate Responsibility as a Normative Cornerstone of Multilateral Cooperation?” Project funded by the Kone Foundation.

Book publication event: Once we had the Arctic - Journeys and Stories from the North.
English edition of the book by Markku Heikkilä “Arktisen maailman jäljillä”.

In his book, Markku Heikkilä shares insights from 25 years of Arctic travel, from the northern parts of Canada to the Ob River and from Iceland to Alaska.

During his journeys, Heikkilä shatters myths and preconceptions about life in the Arctic. He highlights stories that few people know, such as the Last War of the Khanty People, Alaskan Sámi reindeer and the ballerina in Svalbard.

The book dives into landscapes and lives, some of which we are about to lose. It’s about more than our changing climate; the Arctic was once a shared space among different peoples, until the region was swept in a storm of global politics.

On 5th May, the book is published in English in print format. E-book and audiobook will be available on 27th May.

18:00–20:00 | Venue: Arktikum
Organizer: Arctic Centre in collaboration with John Nurminen Foundation

PLEASE NOTE: Welcome reception is for registered participants only.

Welcome reception

Short speeches:

• Johanna Ikävalko (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)
• Annamari Arrakoski-Engardt (CEO, John Nurminen Foundation)
• Lars Kullerud (UArctic president)

Music: DJ Hulluella

Cocktail-style menu and refreshments will be served.

Exploit or Empower: Pros and Cons of Researching Interventions in the Arctic

Important climate system tipping points are associated with the thawing Arctic, prompting examination of interventions to support the vulnerable systems, impacts on the lives of the Arctic Peoples, and local ecosystems. The Arctic also contains huge untapped resources, but much is currently ice-locked. But the Arctic is rapidly losing its ice cover, exposing more land and ice-free ocean, making it an attractive target for resource extraction and a geopolitical pawn. However, ice and the frozen Arctic itself is a global resource that, if valued proportionately to the damage its loss causes would be worth tens of trillions of dollars.

Session convener and moderator: John Moore (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Panelists:

• Ilona Mettiäinen (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)
• Rolf Rødven (Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme AMAP)
• Anni Pokela (Operaatio Arktis, Finland)
• Gwynne Dyer (Author and Documentarian)
• Mark Symes (Advanced Research & Invention Agency, UK)
  

Dependencies and Impacts of Businesses on Arctic Ecosystems and Biodiversity

 The session explores the connections between Arctic business and Arctic nature. Several business sectors seek growth in the Arctic region. Societies must decide how to steer land and water area use to accommodate the interests of various sectors while respecting the boundaries of natural ecosystems. This panel specifically discusses the impacts and dependencies of forestry, wind energy, and cruise ship tourism on Arctic ecosystems and biodiversity. How can we avoid the exploitation and degradation of Arctic ecosystems and make business regenerative and sustainable?

Session conveners: Anu Lähteenmäki-Uutela (Finnish Environment Institute Syke) and Tomi Tuominen (University of Lapland)

Panelists:

• Tomi Tuominen (University of Lapland)
• Minna Pappila (Finnish Environment Institute Syke)
• Ari Nikula (Natural Resources Institute Luke, Finland)
  

Building Future Security Together: Transdisciplinary and Intergenerational Capacity Sharing for Community Development in the Arctic

Join us in exploring how transdisciplinary and intergenerational collaboration can address critical challenges in Arctic communities. This session showcases contributions from youth, policymakers, researchers, presenting innovative strategies and case studies to foster civic engagement, sustainable development, and resilience. With a special focus on youth voices, the session provides a platform for intergenerational dialogue and actionable solutions to secure the future of Arctic regions. Students and young participants are encouraged to share their perspectives and engage in discussions shaping the future of their communities and the surrounding nature.

Session conveners: Cécile Chauvat (CAP-SHARE Project Coordinator, Icelandic Museum of Natural History), Rauni Äärelä-Vihriälä (University of Lapland) and Emma Karjalainen (University of Lapland)

Panelists:

• Niila-Juhán Valkeapää (The Sámi Youth Council, Sámi Parliament, Finland)
• Pauli Taulavuori and Aaron Yliniemi (Muonio High School/General Upper Secondary School)
• Freyja Friðriksdóttir (Youth representative, Húnaklúbburinn Youth Organization)
• Jenny Turton (Arctic Frontiers, Norway)
• Rauni Äärelä-Vihriälä (University of Lapland)
  

Moderators: Cécile Chauvat (CAP-SHARE Project Coordinator, Icelandic Museum of Natural History) and Emma Karjalainen (University of Lapland)

Arctic governance for new resource frontiers: Seabed Mining in the Arctic

The panel is about new resource frontiers such as seabed mining and their governance (or lack of), as there will be potential impacts on Arctic ecosystems and Arctic society.

The Norwegian Parliament had ‘opened’ areas for seabed mining in the Norwegian continental shelf in January 2024 and was proceeding to hand out licenses, until forced to pause activities, upon pressure by a minority party. Other Arctic states take a different policy stance to seabed mining, opting for a ‘precautionary pause’ until environmental and other effects are properly understood. A roundtable discussion will bring in points of view of different stakeholders to the question of whether the ‘marine’ Arctic is ‘governance’ ready for these new resource frontiers.

Session conveners: Krittika Singh (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Confirmed panelists:

•  Duncan Currie, International and environmental lawyer and political adviser, Globelaw and Legal Adviser, Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC)
• Timo Koivurova (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)
• Gunn-Britt Retter (Head of Arctic and Environmental Unit, Saami Council of Norway)
• Freja Klarasdatter Thorsen (Aalborg University, Denmark)
  

Transportation, Infrastructure and Logistics in the European Arctic “Mini Conference” in Three Parts

Part 1: Business opportunities - the big picture
Looking into some key requirements for economic growth in the North (secure supply lines and enhanced preparedness, the interplay between different modes of transportation, technological innovation and business-research, etc.).

Session conveners: Centre for High North Logistics, Bodø and Kirkenes / UArctic Thematic Network on Arctic Transport and Logistics

Keynotes:

• Liisa Ansala (Lapland Chamber of Commerce)
• Felix Tschudi (Tschudi Shipping Company)

Panelists:

• Mikko Niini (Vientistrategit Oy and Team Renewable Arctic Finland)
• Marianne Dobak Kvensjø (Deputy County Mayor, Nordland)
• Jussi Huotari (Lapland ELY Centre / Platform North)
• Petri Karinen (Head of International Affairs, BusinessOulu)

Moderators: Kjell Stokvik and Jan Dietz (Centre for High North Logistics, Bodø and Kirkenes)

Security for Who: Environmental and Climate Security in the Hot Arctic

Discussions on environment and climate have slowly become more accepted as crucial components of security. However, even while the focus of security has widened, the object to be secured is still predominantly the human, also within discourses of environmental and climate security. To think beyond the anthropocentric human-nature division, to address the biggest security threat of our time – global climate crisis – this panel, addresses different ways to approach security in the North. There are no secure societies without the environment, and in the Arctic, the region that warms faster than any other region, the interconnectedness of all living beings is crucial.

Session convener: Marja Sivonen (Finnish Environment Institute Syke)

Panelists:

• Sohvi Kangasluoma and Sanna Kopra (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland): Understanding security from a planetary & multispecies perspective
• Karoliina Hurri (Finnish Institute of International Affairs and Arctic Centre, University of Lapland): Global connections and collaborative solutions for sustainable water security
• Marja Helena Sivonen (Finnish Environment Institute Syke): Energy sector’s preparedness to risks and threats caused by climate change
• Helmi Räisänen (Finnish Institute of International Affairs and University of Helsinki): Critical raw materials of the energy transition
  
  

Arctic Geopolitics and Security

The session explores the changing geopolitical dynamics in the Arctic and discusses their implications for security debates globally, regionally and locally.

Session convener: Sanna Kopra (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Panelists:

• Marco Ghisetti (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland): Mediterranean Arctic Geopolitics at a Time of War. New Dividing Lines Between the Two Shores
• Xinyuan (Olivia) Zhang (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland): BRICS' Evolving Engagement in the Arctic Amid Trump Administration's Greenland Gambit and Changing Security Dynamics
• Katri Kyllönen (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland): Finland's Transition from Military Neutrality to Active Defence Cooperation – Redefining National Identity through Security Discourse
• Laura Junka-Aikio (University of Lapland): Subaltern Security Dilemmas in Times of the Green Transition and Arctic Militarization
  

Arctic Infrastructure, Technology, and Science: Are Hybrid Threats Looming and How Do We Know?

There is a growing presence of technology in the Arctic serving, for example, communication, positioning, undersea survey as well as search and rescue, which may be of dual use. Scientific activities – and the technologies used to facilitate them – could also be intentionally conducted for nefarious purposes and ultimately used to undermine security. This panel will unpack the debate about whether dual-use science and infrastructure for connectivity substantially increase vulnerabilities to hybrid threats, and whether/how it is possible to discern between academic research and legal commercial prospecting or data gathering, and activities with more malign intentions.

Session convener: U.S. Coast Guard Academy, Center for Arctic Study and Policy with the The European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats (Hybrid CoE)

Moderator: Abbie Tingstad (Arctic Research Professor, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, Center for Arctic Study and Policy)

Panelists:

• Johan Schalin (PhD, Senior Analyst, The European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats, Hybrid CoE)
• Sophie Arts (German Marshall Fund of the United States)
• Liisa Kauppila (Finnish Institute of International Affairs FIIA)
  
• Jenny Turton (Arctic Frontiers)
  

Interpolar Dialogue: Bridging Knowledge Between the Arctic and the Third Pole

This session examines the shared environmental security challenges of the Arctic and Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) regions, both of which are experiencing accelerated climate change, cryosphere loss, and water insecurity. Organized in collaboration with the University of Lapland Arctic Centre, the session fosters scientific dialogue and knowledge exchange to enhance climate adaptation, governance strategies, and policy frameworks in these critical regions. The discussion among regional expertise aims to strengthen transregional cooperation to advance actionable solutions for addressing the environmental and geopolitical complexities shaping the future of these vulnerable cryosphere regions.

Session conveners: Santosh Kumar Rauniyar (Ocean Policy Research Institute OPRI and Sasakawa Peace Foundation SPF, Tokyo, Japan) and Kamrul Hossain (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Panelists:

• Santosh Kumar Rauniyar (Research Fellow, OPRI-SPF, Tokyo, Japan)
• Kamrul Hossain (Research Professor and Director of the NIEM, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland, Rovaniemi, Finland)
• Medy Dervovic (Ph.D. Candidate, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland / Reykjavik University, Finland)
• Marco Volpe (Ph.D. Candidate, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland, Finland)

Future Fit and Visionary – A Whole Systems Lens on the CAO

The Central Arctic Ocean (CAO) is a critical apex system that has global impact. It cools our planet and helps regulate climate systems globally and is crucial for planetary health. Already we are feeling the impact on the ocean with warming, acidification, coral bleaching and ferocious ocean storms.Yet as the ice melts, corporations are looking to short-term economic opportunities from exploitation that would cause drastic and irreparable harm. Join us to discuss the case for a 10-year Moratorium on Exploitative Activity in this Area Beyond National Jurisdiction, a precautionary principle pause to protect what we can of the ice, while we can. We will hear what existing frameworks exist to govern this space, the gaps that remain to be addressed, and envision what timely action to protect this Global Commons can look like. 

Session convener: Vedika Mandapati (Global Choices)

Panelists:

• Johanna Ikävalko (Director, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)
• Katharina Heinrich (Researcher, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland; PhD Candidate, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki)
• Vedika Mandapati (Policy Analyst and Outreach Officer, Global Choices)
• Krista Perälä (Arctic Angel and Masters Student at University of Lapland)
  

Transportation, Infrastructure and Logistics in the European Arctic “Mini Conference” in Three Parts

Part 2: Arctic Mobility
Future competence: The case for a new Nordic research and education programme and the need for foresight and long-term planning.

Session conveners: Centre for High North Logistics, Bodø and Kirkenes / UArctic Thematic Network on Arctic Transport and Logistics

Keynotes:

• Trond Andersen (Arctic Mobility)
• Johanne Raade (Co-Director Arctic Six)

Panelists:

• Sari Lindblom (Vice Rector for Research, University of Lapland)
• Lars Kullerud (President UArctic, University of the Arctic)
• Mari Siljebråten (Chair of the Transport Committee Troms County Council)

Moderators: Kjell Stokvik and Jan Dietz (Centre for High North Logistics, Bodø and Kirkenes)

Country session: Arctic situation briefs

While Tuesday’s panel on Arctic cooperation focused in overall situation, this panel gives more insights on how some countries are looking at the developments in the Arctic today. Particular focus is in Arctic Council European observer countries.

Session convener: Arctic Centre, University of Lapland

Moderator: Markku Heikkilä (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Speakers:

• Petteri Vuorimäki ((Arctic Ambassador Finland)
• Agostino Pinna (Special Envoy for the Arctic of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs): Italy’s engagement in the Arctic
  

Open session: In the Spirit of the Arctic Spirit

This session features selected scholars whose topics align with the overall theme of the conference but are not included in any of the thematic sessions. Our aim is to enhance the variety of the conference’s content and provide an opportunity for new ideas, connections, and discussions.

Session convener: Arctic Centre

Moderator: Johan-Eerik Kukko (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Speakers:

• Merje Kuus (Professor of Geography, The University of British Columbia, Canada)
  
  Title: Arctic expertise as diplomatic expertise: transnational knowledge in regional governance
  
  This presentation examines the work of those who conduct international governance in the Arctic. Many of the professionals who populate Arctic governance circles are international and transnational in their work experience and approach: they are not diplomats, but their work is quasi-diplomatic. To grasp the evolution of Arctic governance, we need to understand their perspectives and practices in greater detail. My argument draws primary empirical material from extensive ethnographic fieldwork at (international) Arctic governance events. The presentation advances our understanding of the spaces and agents of international governance.
  
  
• Claire Mosoni (PhD student, Interdisciplinary Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki)
  
  Title: The EU’s influence on Arctic policymaking: Implications for climate adaptation
  
  Adapting to the impacts caused by rapid Arctic warming is becoming increasingly urgent. However, policy responses remain fragmented due to the involvement of local, national and international actors, the diversity of Arctic policy sub-issues and the role of non-climatic drivers. This presentation examines the role of an international actor like the European Union, exploring how it influences Arctic policymaking and contributes to different pathways for adaptation. Our research highlights how international actors shape regional adaptation efforts and underscores the need for strategic choices and compromises to advance adaptation to climate change in a fast-changing region like the Arctic.
  
  
• Anita Parlow
  
  
• Chris Guillot (Co-founder of Awarenearth)
  
  Title: Reflections on natural, anthropogenic, and emerging threats: personal experiences and the limits of holistic understanding
  
  Within the shifting geopolitical landscape and its impact on the Elements of Security, my short presentation reflects on 25 years of international engagement, navigating the spectrum of natural, anthropogenic, and emerging threats to humanity. Drawing from personal experiences across diverse security challenges—natural disasters, warfare, pandemics, climate change, and technological advancements—it addresses the impossible challenge for a holistic understanding of security, within the Arctic, but also within and outside all national jurisdictions. While the aim to reach a holistic understanding may be valuable, an alternative response could be to engage in interdisciplinary dialogue with the recognition of our individual and collective limitations of our multi-cultural and multi-social knowledges.

Adapting to Climate Change in Finnish Lapland: Dialogues on Tourism and Reindeer Herding

This session features two dialogues on climate change adaptation in Finnish Lapland, focusing on reindeer herding and tourism, followed by a 10-minute Q&A. Participants will explore the security risks of shifting weather patterns, impacting reindeer herders, reindeer, and tourists. The reindeer herding dialogue will address safety risks from extreme weather and changing conditions affecting herders and reindeer wellbeing. The tourism dialogue will examine safety challenges, such as unpredictable weather, and the need for adaptive measures to protect visitors. The session will also discuss practical solutions to enhance resilience and maintain safety in a changing climate.

Session conveners: MountResilience: Seija Tuulentie (Natural Resources Institute Finland) and Lotta Eriksson (Regional Council of Lapland)

Panelists:

Reindeer Herding:

• Tuomas Aslak Juuso (Second Vice-President of the Sámi Parliament in Finland)
• Tiina Sanila-Aikio (Chair of the Association of Sámi Reindeer Herding Cooperatives)

Tourism:

• Liisa Kokkarinen (Visit Finland, Head of Sustainability)
• Laura Hokajärvi (Finnish Lapland Tourist Board / MountResilience Project)

Anchoring Resilience: Enhancing Mental Health and Well-Being Through Cultural Heritage and Place Attachment in Arctic Communities

In the Arctic, security is not just about borders and resources—it's about the resilience of communities tied to their cultural heritage and sense of place. This panel expands the conversation on Arctic security by highlighting the essential components of resilience, including mental well-being and cultural identity. As Arctic communities face increasing environmental and social pressures, preserving their cultural heritage becomes a crucial tool in safeguarding both physical and psychological security. By exploring the intersection of art, tradition, and place attachment, this panel discusses a transformative approach to security that is often overlooked yet crucial to the region's future.

Session conveners: Nadezhda Filimonova (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland) and Anngelica Kristoferqvist (Arctic Centre, Umeå University)

Panelists:

• Katariina Vuori (PhD student, University of Oulu, Finland): Cultural heritage and well-being: Exploring the therapeutic potential of cultural heritage through creative participatory workshops
• Francis Joy (Postdoctoral researcher, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland, Finland): Engaging with trees and forest landscapes as a method for exploring cultural heritage and building resilience. Examples of different forms of communication with the powers of nature
• Åsa Andersson Martti (Master student, University of Gävle, Sweden): The relocation of Kiruna City: An Exploration of Community Resilience
  
  

The Impacts of High Geopolitical Tensions on Arctic Security / Research

In a region with growing interest, increasing tensions, and with the impact of climate and environmental change accelerating, we look to explore the impacts recent events are having on Arctic research and what conclusions we can draw on future science and research policies and better support research and policy outcomes.

Session conveners: Megan Richmond and Anna Hayes (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, UK)

Confirmed panelists:

• Gareth Rees (Professor of Polar Geoinformatics)
  
• Rolf Rødven (Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme AMAP Executive Secretary)
• Gosia Smieszek (UiT Arctic University of Norway)
  

Future-Proofing the North: Agile Innovation in the Northern Nordics

While large-scale infrastructure projects dominate Arctic development discussions— offshore wind, oil and gas, railroads, harbors, and defense; They often require decades to materialize, if they succeed at all. Meanwhile, demographic challenges and centralization pressures risk turning many Arctic regions into economic and social "cemeteries."

This session explores an alternative approach: the power of agile, innovation-driven ecosystems. Finland has demonstrated remarkable success in fostering dynamic entrepreneurial environments, and the phrase "Look to Finland" is increasingly heard in Norway. What lessons can be drawn from Finland’s approach? How have they built and sustained a thriving innovation ecosystem? What practical steps can the Northern Nordics take to replicate these successes?

Featuring leading experts from business, policy, and innovation, this panel will offer actionable insights for policymakers and regional stakeholders eager to accelerate growth and resilience in the north.

Session convener: Ronni Fawaz-Pinstrup (Business Advisor at the Norwegian Barents Secretariat)

Moderator: Dr. Kenneth Stålsett (CEO of the Norwegian Barents Secretariat)

Panelists:

• Kustaa Valtonen (Finest Bay Area)
• Toni Pienonen (Crazy Town)
• Erica Roiko (Founder and CEO of Kipinä Event Oy)
• Kristina Torbergsen (County Mayor of Troms)
• Hans Jacob Bønå (County Mayor of Finnmark)
• Svein Eggesvik (County Council Leader of Nordland)

Arctic Foresight: Future Lessons from the Past and from Beyond the Region

This session aims to inspire a vision for the future of Arctic governance from the perspective of non-Arctic states, utilizing various theoretical approaches and enriched by empirical insights from interactions with representatives of the Arctic Council Observer States. The session's exploration seeks to unveil how historical lessons, experiences, and interests from beyond the Arctic - particularly from the Observer States of the Arctic Council and the European Union - can illuminate the path for future decision-making and policy development within the international Arctic framework. Additionally, the session will delve into the significance of the Pact for the Future in Arctic governance, highlighting the transformative power of evolving global and multilateral cooperation. By weaving together diverse multidisciplinary perspectives, this session will emphasize the vital role of historical insights in shaping a resilient and proactive Arctic governance landscape for generations to come.

Session convener: Pavel Tkach (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Moderator: Adam Stepien (Researcher, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Panelists:

• Pavel Tkach (Researcher, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland): Arctic Directions: Interests Overview from Series of Interviews with Senior Arctic Officials of the Arctic Council Observer States
• Emilie Canova (PhD candidate, Harding Scholar, Scott Polar Research Institute, University of Cambridge): A Historical Perspective on Arctic-Europe Relations (1970s-2008)
• Alexandra Middleton (Postdoctoral Researcher in Financial Accounting, Oulu Business School, University of Oulu): The Pact for the Future: Implications for Arctic Governance and Cooperation in a Changing Global Landscape
• Elena Kavanagh (Research Affiliate, Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, University of Cambridge, UK; Advisor to the Board of Directors, Arctic Youth Network, Canada): Navigating Arctic Governance Through Multipolar World: Role of Non-Arctic States

China in the Arctic

The session analyses China’s Arctic involvement from various perspectives.

Session convener: Sanna Kopra (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Panelists:

• Liisa Kauppila (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland and FIIA): Visions in Flux: China's Evolving Arctic Engagement
• Marco Volpe (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland): China's Science Diplomacy Navigating the Changing Arctic Order
• Matti Nojonen (University of Lapland): What Is the State and Projections of Sino-Russian Relations in the Emerging New World Order?
• Matti Puranen & Juha Kukkola (National Defence University, Finland): China-Russia Arctic Axis?
  

Advancing Arctic Agency to Foster a Secure and Just Green Transition

The green transition is a crucial strategy for advancing emission reduction and energy independence through cost- and energy-efficient technological innovations. However, social justice issues remain unresolved, particularly for nature-based livelihood practitioners, Indigenous peoples, youth, children, the elderly, and low-income households. Vulnerable groups are disproportionately affected by climate change and geopolitical unrest, facing risks such as land use changes and economic marginalization. This session explores the intersection of social justice and human and environmental security in advancing a just green transition. It emphasizes inclusive solutions that combine sustainable development goals with the security, rights, and welfare of vulnerable populations.

Session conveners: Mia Landauer (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland, REBOUND project) and Pasi Rautio (Natural Resources Institute (LUKE), REBOUND project)

Panelists:

• Johanna Ohlsson (University College Stockholm): Issues of injustice in the green transition: perceptions from Indigenous communities
• Rauni Äärelä-Vihriälä (University of Lapland): Navigating sustainability and justice in the green transition through intergenerational dialogue
• Jonna Häkkilä (University of Lapland): Arts and virtual reality as tools in illustrating environmental and landscape changes 
• Taru Rikkonen (Natural Resources Institute, LUKE): Local communities' views on justice in energy developments based on a map-based questionnaire (PPGIS) survey

Shared Sovereignties, Contested Securities, and Militarization in Sápmi

As a result of geopolitical tensions and changing security architecture, militaries and military interests now exercise strong command over political decision-making and land use planning across Sápmi and the Nordic “High North”. Although militarization and various forms of military land use have potentially wide and far-reaching impacts on Sámi livelihoods, cultures and societies, so far the Nordic states have largely bypassed Sámi sovereignty and rights and disregarded their legal responsibilities to the Sámi, instead hastening decision-making and military land use justified by the discourses of security, secrecy and urgency.  In this panel, we consider the challenges that the current conjuncture poses for Sámi self-determination, security and futurity, approaching the topic from the conceptual perspectives of shared sovereignty, settler vs. Indigenous time, and geographies of militarization.

Session conveners: Laura Junka-Aikio (University of Lapland) and Rauna Kuokkanen (University of Lapland)

Panelists:

• Rauna Kuokkanen and Juha Karhu (University of Lapland): Shared Sovereignties in the Arctic
• Emma Kaskinen and Hidefumi Nishiyama (University of Oulu): Settler time in the Finnish security policy-making
• Laura Junka-Aikio (University of Lapland): Geographies of Militarization in Sápmi: On the impact of military land use on Sámi livelihoods, culture and society
  

Transportation, Infrastructure and Logistics in the European Arctic “Mini Conference” in Three Parts

Part 3: Infrastructure and Logistics Options
Novel transport, infrastructure and logistics solutions in the European Arctic and the Arctic – an overview of needs plus examples of ongoing activities and recent research findings (BEAR project).

Session conveners: Centre for High North Logistics, Bodø and Kirkenes / UArctic Thematic Network on Arctic Transport and Logistics

Panelists:

• Johanne Aadde (Kunnskapsparken Bodø)
• Gunnar Stefansson (UArctic Vice President for Research)
• Paula Qvick (Planning Director at the Regional Council of Lapland)
• Mikko Tervo (New North Project)

Moderators: Kjell Stokvik and Jan Dietz (Centre for High North Logistics, Bodø and Kirkenes)

Everyday Security in the North: Role of Food, Land and Knowledge Systems of Arctic Communities

Arctic communities and livelihoods are facing rapid environmental changes and new weather-related risks, as well as various land-use conflicts in their everyday life. In this session, we highlight the local perspectives and research findings on the elements of everyday security in the North. Talks on climate security, food security and consolidation between land users will emphasize the roles of scientific, local and Indigenous knowledge systems in the sustainability transformation, for example their contribution to food security in the circumpolar Arctic region.

Session conveners: Dele Raheem (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland) and Sirpa Rasmus (Arctic Centre, University of Lapland)

Panelists:

• Emma Hakala (Leading Researcher, Finnish Institute of International Affairs, Finland): Climate Change and Everyday Security of Supply: Energy and Logistics
• Heli Kukkurainen (Doctoral Student, University of Oulu, Finland): Climate-Induced Disruptions to Sámi Food Systems: Navigating Challenges to Land, Knowledge, and Food Security
• Iida Melamies (Researcher, University of Lapland, Finland and Sattasniemi herding district): Grazing Peace? Reindeer Herding and Other Land Users on the Same Pastures
• Ulla-Maija Poranen (Doctoral Student, University of Turku, Finland): Food Security and Long Preserving Food Stuff
• Ben Sonneveld (Professor, Vrije University, Amsterdam, Netherlands): Food in the Cold: a Research Agenda for Food Security in Arctic Regions