The Arctic Frontiers conference reinforces collaborative approaches to resolving Arctic security issues. ARCTIC FRONTIERS
MAYA JOHNSON
The 2024 Arctic Frontiers conference, held in Tromsø, Norway, brought together a global assembly of leaders, policymakers, researchers and experts to discuss the future of the Arctic region. The January 29 to February 1, 2024 conference served as a crucial nexus for addressing regional issues. The annual conference’s location in Tromsø – as far north as the most northern points in Alaska and Russia – is apt. The city serves as a key Arctic hub, providing a fitting backdrop for discussions that bridged policy, science and business. The 2024 conference was the 19th iteration of Arctic Frontiers.
This year’s overarching theme was “Actions and Reactions,” which emphasized discussions on how to proactively take control and ensure deliberate actions rather than solely reacting to the challenges in the Arctic region. Central to the conference were the big picture sessions, addressing diverse Arctic issues such as geopolitics, climate change, energy transition and ocean-related policies. These sessions provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions, fostering collaboration and innovative solutions. The conference underscored the need for strategic planning in the face of geopolitical shifts, increased military activities, and NATO evolution. According to the Arctic Frontiers website, major themes focused on dynamic changes in the Arctic, shaped by political, economic and environmental factors, emphasizing proactive responses and collaboration for sustainable solutions.
The discussions emphasized the crucial role of local communities and Indigenous people in shaping the Arctic’s future. Sessions delved into specific themes, such as “Global Actions/Arctic Reactions,” which examined how global actions influence the region, and “Arctic Security – Local Resilience,” focusing on geopolitical shifts, such as NATO expansion. “Navigating Arctic Realities” emphasized the evolving Arctic shipping landscape, sustainable practices and international cooperation. The session on “Rethinking Arctic Development” explored embracing sustainability, human rights, environmental concerns and local benefits in order for business actives to succeed in the region, according to the website.
At the core of the conference was the science program, showcasing the latest research on the Arctic. This aspect aimed to enhance collaboration among researchers, scientists and experts. By bridging interdisciplinary gaps, the conference aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the Arctic’s trajectory, ensuring that actions taken are informed by the latest research and collective expertise.
The Arctic Frontiers Conference is open to the public and hosts events for future generations of Arctic leaders. The group hosts other events throughout the year and markets itself as a medium of Arctic knowledge for scientists, policymakers, business and local Arctic communities. Notable partners include the Norwegian Polar Institute, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, the Institute of Marine Research, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, and the University of Bergen.
Noteworthy attendees at this year’s conference included Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and many other Norwegian ministers. The United States, Canada, Sweden, Finland and other Arctic allies and partners were well represented, with a diverse delegation of military and political leaders, including leading generals and politicians. Notable U.S. personal who attended included President Joe Biden’s Arctic advisors and Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska. The conference showcases the Arctic community’s commitment to solving Arctic challenges collectively. Allies and partners are vital for a stable and peaceful Arctic, representing the shared responsibility and collaboration needed to navigate the complex dynamics of the region.
Longtime advocate of cooperation among Arctic allies and partners, Gen. Glen D. VanHerck, former commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command, has long emphasized the importance of security collaboration in the region. In a Pentagon press briefing reported by the Department of Defense, Gen. VanHerck recognized the benefits of a stable, rule-based international order in the Arctic for the United States and all Arctic nations. According to Gen. VanHerck, allies and partners are the greatest strategic advantage for the United States. The Arctic Frontiers conference is just one engagement that reinforces the collaborative approach for addressing challenges in the Arctic and beyond.
Maya Johnson is a graduate student at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver and an intern at the United States Northern Command.