The Arctic Circle Podcast

In this episode, Maria Varteressian, State Secretary at the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, advocates for the irreplaceable role of the Arctic Council in promoting regional cooperation amid climate change and geopolitical tensions, emphasizing its function as the only forum representing the shared interests and concerns of Arctic communities.This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, Admiral Rob Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, responds to questions from participants at the Arctic Circle Assembly.The Q&A is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.This discussion originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, we analyze and assess the effectiveness of current legal protection frameworks under international law in safeguarding the rights of Indigenous peoples and the security of Arctic communities, amidst climate change-driven security challenges and growing global interests in the region.Our panelists include: Pirita Näkkäläjärvi: President of the Sámi Parliament in FinlandKate Mackintosh: Executive Director of the UCLA Law Promise Institute EuropeThe discussion is moderated by Dalee Sambo Dorough, Senior Scholar & Special Adviser on Arctic Indigenous Peoples at the University of Alaska Anchorage.This panel originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, Iris Ferguson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Arctic and Global Resilience, presents the U.S. Department of Defense’s 2024 Arctic Strategy, expanding on its core message of stability, common cause, and the importance of collective security in the Arctic.Following her remarks, Iris Ferguson is joined by Sharon Hudson-Dean, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, for a discussion and Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.This discussion originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, we revisit one of our most impactful and thought-provoking discussions from past Assemblies and Forums. Enjoy this insightful throwback as we continue to explore the critical issues shaping the future of the Arctic and our planet. Let’s open the archive!Today, we hear from Tara Sweeney, Principal and CEO of Tack-71 Strategies, and Heiðar Guðjónsson, CEO of Ursus Investments, both former Chairs of the Arctic Economic Council, as they discuss investment opportunities in the Arctic.The discussion is moderated by Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Executive Director of the Arctic Economic Council.This panel originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

Welcome to this special edition of the Arctic Circle Podcast! In this episode, we revisit one of our most impactful and thought-provoking discussions from past Assemblies and Forums. Enjoy this insightful throwback as we continue to explore the critical issues shaping the future of the Arctic and our planet. Let’s open the archive!Today, we listen to Indigenous leaders discuss the mandate of Inuit Circumpolar Council until 2026, and the importance of Indigenous participation in Arctic Governance. Our panelists include: Sara Olsvig: International Chair of the Inuit Circumpolar CouncilLisa Koperqualuk: President of ICC CanadaKuupik V. Kleist: former President of ICC GreenlandDalee Sambo Dorough: former International Chair of ICCDoreen Fogg-Leavitt: Inupiat Community of the Arctic Slope, ICC Alaska Alternate Board MemberThe dialogue and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Mininnguaq Kleist, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Statehood and Foreign Affairs, Greenland. This panel originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, Marcella Panucci, Chief of Cabinet at Italy's Ministry of University and Research, addresses the Arctic community, highlighting Italy’s commitment to the polar regions in the fields of science and research.This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly. The Arctic Circle Rome Forum will take place in December 2025. Stay tuned!Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, Stefan Rahmstorf, Professor of Physics of the Oceans at Potsdam University, breaks down the science behind the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), the main ocean current system in the Atlantic. He explains how global warming is causing the AMOC to slow, the impacts on the climate system, and the potential consequences of crossing its tipping point. Professor Rahmstorf ultimately emphasizes the urgent need for decisive climate action.The presentation begins with remarks from H.E. Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarson, Iceland’s Minister for the Environment, Energy, and Climate, and is moderated by Hildigunnur Thorsteinsson, Director General of the Icelandic Meteorological Office.This panel originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, Rear Admiral TVN Prasanna, Joint Secretary of the National Security Council Secretariat of the Government of India, joins Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, to discuss India’s connections with the Arctic and the Poles, and to respond to questions from the audience.This discussion originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly. The Arctic Circle India Forum will take place in April 2025, in Delhi. Stay tuned!Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska reflects on the evolving role of the United States as an Arctic nation. She discusses key developments, including the appointment of Dr. Mike Sfraga as the first U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs, the expansion of Arctic infrastructure, and the importance of strengthening regional partnerships and alliances.Following her remarks, Senator Murkowski is joined by Ambassador Sfraga for a Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.This speech and discussion originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, H.E. Vivian Motzfeldt, Minister for Statehood and Foreign Affairs, introduces Greenland's new Foreign, Security, and Defense Policy. Titled “Greenland in the World — Nothing About Us Without Us,” the strategy outlines Greenland's priorities, positions, needs, and concerns as an Arctic nation.The address is followed by a Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.This speech and discussion originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, H.E. Bjarni Benediktsson, Prime Minister of Iceland, shares his insights on what he sees as the way forward to address the pressing issues facing the Arctic region. He calls for rebuilding trust in international cooperation and the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of adapting partnerships and collaborative efforts to navigate a new security environment.This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, Admiral Rob Bauer makes his third and final appearance at the Arctic Circle Assembly as Chair of the NATO Military Committee. He addresses the rising strategic competition and ongoing geopolitical challenges in the Arctic, stressing the increasingly urgent need to ensure security and stability in the region.This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, officially kicks off the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly, which took place October 17-19 in Reykjavík, Iceland. This opening speech sets the tone for our new podcast season, which will feature a range of inspiring and thought-provoking speeches, Q&As, sessions, and discussions from this year's Assembly.Whether you're tuning in for the first time or are a long-time listener, we invite you to join the ongoing conversation on the future of the Arctic and our planet. To our new audience, welcome aboard; to our dedicated friends, we’re honored to have you with us once again.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, shares his reflections and final remarks on the 2024 Berlin Forum, where discussions centered on navigating Arctic issues at crossroads.This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, we explore the role that non-Arctic European countries play in addressing Arctic challenges, highlighting their commitment and the assets they bring to regional cooperation.Our panelists include:Clarissa Duvigneau: German Ambassador to IcelandCarmine Robustelli: Special Envoy for the Arctic at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of ItalyClaire Buckley: Irish Ambassador to Iceland & NorwayPiotr Rakowski: former Senior Advisor for Arctic Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of PolandClara Ganslandt: EU Ambassador to Iceland; former EU Special Envoy for Arctic MattersThe discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Marie-Anne Coninsx, Senior Fellow at EGMONT – Royal Institute for International Relations, and Former EU Ambassador for the Arctic.This panel originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, we will explore the future of Arctic governance with and without Russia, examining perspectives ranging from research collaboration and international law to security policy, and exploring potential avenues for renewed cooperation.Our panelists include:Anne Morgenstern: Senior Researcher at the Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, GermanyRasmus Bertelsen: Professor at UiT - The Arctic University of NorwayOlena Podvorna: Senior Researcher at the Peace Research Institute FrankfurtChristoph Humrich: Assistant Professor, Centre for International Relations Research at the University of Groningen, NetherlandsMichael Paul: Senior Fellow at the German Institute for International and Security AffairsThe discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Franziska Hagedorn, Head of Division for Arctic Policy at the Federal Foreign Office, Germany.This panel originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, we will explore the concepts of co-creation and two-eyed seeing, focusing on the perspectives of Indigenous and scientific knowledge in research endeavors.Our panelists include:Aslak Holmberg: President of the Saami CouncilNaja Dyrendom Graugaard: Postdoctoral Researcher at the Aarhus University, Denmark Vivi Vold: PhD Candidate at the University of Greenland and the University of California, Davis, United StatesNina Döring: Research Group Leader at the Research Institute for Sustainability – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam, GermanyEvie Morin: Research Associate at the Research Institute for Sustainability – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam, GermanyAnne Chahine: Research Associate at the Research Institute for Sustainability – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam, GermanyThe discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Jan-Erik Henriksen, Professor at UiT – The Arctic University of Norway.This panel originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, we will further examine and discuss the implications of geopolitics on Arctic governance and cooperation.Our panelists include:Rt. Hon. Mark Pritchard MP: Vice-President and Special Representative on the Arctic and High North of the OSCE Parliamentary AssemblyHon. Bryndís Haraldsdóttir MP: President of the Nordic CouncilMichael Paul: Senior Fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP)Rasmus Bertelsen: Professor at UiT - The Arctic University of NorwayThe discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Malgorzata Smieszek-Rice, Postdoctoral Researcher at UiT - The Arctic University of Norway.This panel originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org

In this episode, we will explore views and perspectives on the potential of Arctic clean energy for the European market.Our panelists include:H.E. Angus Robertson: External Affairs Secretary of the Scottish GovernmentAndré Küüsvek: CEO & President of the Nordic Investment BankRobert Howe: Managing Director of Bremenports, GermanyThe discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.This panel originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.The Arctic Circle Business Forum The Arctic Circle Business Forum, a new initiative, will be launched at the upcoming Assembly, 17-19 October.Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. Learn more about Arctic Circle at www.ArcticCircle.org or contact us at secretariat@arcticcircle.orgTWITTER:@_Arctic_CircleFACEBOOK:The Arctic CircleINSTAGRAM:arctic_circle_org