The Arctic Circle Podcast

The New Arctic Investment Era

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000

What is the present and future of Arctic investment?

Joining the conversation are:

Jeanette Vitasp, CFA, Vice President, and Head of Lending at the Nordic Investment Bank;
Benedikt Gíslason, CEO of Arion Bank.

The Session is moderated by Friðrika Geirsdóttir, Director of the Arctic Circle Business Forum.

This discussion was recorded live at the Arctic Circle Business Forum, held October 16th to 17th during the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, in Reykjavík, Iceland.

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.org

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The Arctic Circle Rome Forum - Polar Dialogue

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000

What is Italy’s connection, role, and engagement in the Arctic across research, science, diplomacy, security, and education?

The session is introduced by Ásgerður Ólöf Ásgeirsdóttir, Managing Director of Arctic Circle, and continues with a speech by Isabella Rauti, Deputy Minister at the Italian Ministry of Defence, introducing the Arctic Circle Rome Forum – Polar Dialogue, taking place on March 3rd and 4th, 2026, in Rome, Italy.

This speech was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Indigenous Innovation & Economic Leadership

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 02:00:00 +0000

How can business know-how and Indigenous knowledge be combined to create better solutions, taking the Canadian Arctic as an example?

Joining the conversation are:

Ethan Lavallée, Business Development Officer at Da Daghay Development Corporation (DDDC), Canada;
Benjamin Scott, Director of EntrepreNorth and Chairperson of Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation, Canada;
Xina Cowan, Co-Director of EntrepreNorth, Canada.

The Session is moderated by Xavier Rodriguez, Senior Trade Commissioner and Public Affairs Officer at the Embassy of Canada to Iceland.

This discussion was recorded live at the Arctic Circle Business Forum, held October 16th to 17th, during the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The 5th International Polar Year

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 02:00:00 +0000

What are the key priorities for the 5th International Polar Year, 2032–33? And why is this process so crucial for the polar regions and the world?

Joining the conversation are:

Herb Nakimayak, Vice Chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Council International and President of Inuit Circumpolar Council Canada;
Salvatore Aricò, Chief Executive Officer of the International Science Council;
Amanda Lynch, Chair of the Research Board at the World Meteorological Organization and Lindemann Distinguished Professor at Brown University;
Gary Wilson, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research at the University of Waikato, New Zealand and President of the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research.

The session is moderated by Henry Burgess, Head of the NERC Arctic Office at the British Antarctic Survey, President of the International Arctic Science Committee, and Vice-Chair of the Arctic Circle Polar Dialogue.

This discussion was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Greenland’s Business Future

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:00:00 +0000

What does the future of energy and natural resources hold for Greenland? And how can differing expectations be managed to ensure that business opportunities benefit local communities?

Joining the conversation is Naaja H. Nathanielsen, Greenland’s Minister for Business, Energy, Natural Resources, Justice and Equality. This session includes an open Q&A with the audience moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the Arctic Circle Business Forum, held October 16th to 17th, during the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Energy Security in a Resilient Arctic

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 02:00:00 +0000

What does a resilient Arctic look like? What are the challenges and opportunities when it comes to energy security in the region? And how are Arctic nations navigating these transformations in communities, industries, and ecosystems?

The conversation is introduced by H.E. Karen Ellemann, Secretary General of the Nordic Council of Ministers, and continues with a panel discussion featuring:

H.E. Naaja H. Nathanielsen, Greenland’s Minister for Business and Energy
H.E. Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson, Iceland’s Minister of the Environment, Energy and Climate
Honor. Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs & Minister Responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
Claude Véron-Réville, EU Special Envoy for Arctic Matters

Moderating is Patti Bruns, Secretary General of the Arctic Mayors’ Forum.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Arctic Intelligence 101

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 02:00:00 +0000

What is the nexus between geopolitics, deep tech innovation, strategic security, and markets? And how do these dynamics shape the future of the Arctic region, including when it comes to business opportunities?

Joining the conversation is Pippa Malmgren, CEO and Founder of the Geopolitica Institute and Strategic Advisor at C10 Labs, USA.

This Session was recorded live at the Arctic Circle Business Forum, held October 16th to 17th, during the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The Future of Science

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 02:00:00 +0000

What does the future of science look like in a rapidly changing Arctic? And how can global scientific collaboration advance climate resilience and sustainable solutions?

Joining the conversation are:

Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, President, World Meteorological Organization
Professor Dame Angela McLean, UK Government Chief Scientific Adviser
Professor John Holdren, Co-Chair of the Harvard Kennedy School's Arctic Initiative; and Science Advisor for President Obama & Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (2009-2017)

Moderating was Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Prime Minister of Iceland 2017-2024; and Chair of the Arctic Circle Polar Dialogue.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Viability and Vulnerability in Arctic Opportunities

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 02:00:00 +0000

What factors determine the viability and vulnerability of Arctic opportunities? And how should these considerations shape investments, planning, and operations in the region?

Joining the conversation are:

Niels Clemensen, CEO of Royal Arctic Line
Seong-Yeob Jeong, Principal Researcher at the Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering (KRISO)
Margaret D. Williams, Senior Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School's Arctic Initiative
James Davies, CEO of Davie Shipbuilding

Moderating was James Gamble, Senior Director of the Arctic Program at Pacific Environment, USA.

This Session was recorded live at the Arctic Circle Business Forum, held October 16th to 17th, during the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, in Reykjavík, Iceland.

H.I.H. Princess Takamado of Japan

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 02:00:00 +0000

What does it mean to live responsibly on this planet? How can we, as humans, nurture a lasting relationship with nature and protect our environment for future generations?

Joining the conversation is Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado of Japan. Her remarks are followed by an open Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Glacial Resonance by Nefúr - Live performance at ACA25

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Today, we take a throwback to Glacial Resonance by Nefúr, which transported the audience through immersive soundscapes inspired by the Arctic’s beauty and fragility.

This performance was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Gaskačázis by iDJa - Live performance at ACA25

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 02:00:00 +0000

Today, iDJa takes over the Arctic Circle Podcast to present Gaskačázis (“Middle of the Sky”), a fusion of traditional Sámi music and contemporary electronic sounds.

This performance was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Flight of Fancy by Kali Armstrong & Friends - Live performance at ACA25

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 02:00:00 +0000

Today, Kali Armstrong & Friends offer a moving musical break in this podcast series. Flight of Fancy evokes the spirit of exploration and the human drive to reach beyond the known.

This performance was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Norway in the High North

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What are Norway’s foreign and defense policy priorities in today’s Arctic? And what role does Norway play in Arctic relations and governance?

Joining the conversation are Maria Varteressian, then State Secretary at the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Andreas Flåm, State Secretary at the Norwegian Ministry of Defence. The open Q&A with the audience is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

The Faroe Islands at the Arctic Crossroads

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What does it mean to be at the geographic and geopolitical crossroads of Europe, North America, and the Arctic? And what role do the Faroe Islands envision playing in the Arctic and the world?

Joining the conversation is Aksel Vilhelmson Johannesen, Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands. His remarks are followed by an open Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Finland in the Arctic

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

What is Finland’s vision for a peaceful, stable, and sustainable Arctic amid the current geopolitical and strategic tensions in the region? And how is Finland working to integrate Arctic perspectives into Europe’s and NATO’s collective security, defense, and deterrence strategies?

Joining the conversation is Elina Valtonen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland. Her remarks are followed by an open Q&A with the audience moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Iceland’s Role in Arctic Security and Stability

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What role does Iceland have to play in Arctic security and stability? And how is the country addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in the region?

Joining the conversation is Kristrún Frostadóttir, Prime Minister, Iceland. This Q&A with audience is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

The Canadian Arctic

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What is Canada’s approach and policy in the Arctic, and how important are partnerships in advancing these priorities?

Joining the conversation is Hon. Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs & Minister Responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency. Her speech is followed by an open Q&A with the audience moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This speech was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

The Arctic-Space Connection

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What is the role and importance of space in and for the Arctic? How are the Arctic and space sectors connected, and what opportunities does the growth of the space industry present for the region?

Joining the conversation are:

Nettie La Belle-Hamer, Deputy Director for Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, USA
Troels Sandreid, President of Andøya Spaceport
Pippa Malmgren, CEO and Founder of Geopolitica Institute; and Strategic Advisor at C10 Labs, USA
Martin Skedsmo, Key Account Manager at KSAT - Kongsberg Satellite Services
Josef Wiedemann, Sales Director at ISAR Aerospace, Germany

Moderating was Daniel Leeb, Executive Mission Director of the Iceland Space Agency and Managing Director of Iceland Research Institute of Space Science.

This Session was recorded live at the Arctic Circle Business Forum, held October 16th to 17th, during the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Greenland in the Arctic and the World

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What are Greenland’s vision and priorities in the Arctic and the world? And how is the government addressing opportunities and challenges in the region?

Joining the conversation are:

Vivian Motzfeldt, Greenland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Research
Naaja H. Nathanielsen, Greenland’s Minister for Business, Energy, Natural Resources, Justice and Equality
Nivi Olsen, Greenland’s Minister for Education, Culture, Sports and Church

Moderating is Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Denmark in the Arctic

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What are Denmark’s vision and priorities in the Arctic? And how is the country addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in the region?

Joining the conversation is Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark. His remarks are followed by an open Q&A with Jonas Bering Liisberg, State Secretary for European Affairs and the Arctic of Denmark, and moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

The Chairship of the Arctic Council 2025-2027

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 02:00:00 +0000

How is the Arctic Council functioning in today’s geopolitical context? And what is the blueprint under the Kingdom of Denmark’s Chairship for 2025–2027?

Joining the conversation are:

Kenneth Høegh, Arctic Ambassador, Kingdom of Denmark; Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials, Arctic Council
Gunn-Britt Retter, Head of Arctic and Environmental Unit, Saami Council

Moderating is Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Prime Minister of Iceland 2017–2024; Chair, Arctic Circle Polar Dialogue.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

The Future of Mining in Greenland

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What opportunities and challenges does mining in Greenland present, and how can the interests of local communities, industry, and the environment be balanced?

Joining the conversation are:

Sara Olsvig, International Chair, Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC); Head of Delegation to the Arctic Council
Naja Dyrendom Graugaard, Assistant Professor, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
Nauja Bianco, Member of the Board of Directors, Greenland Resources Inc., Canada; Director, Isuma Consulting, Greenland
Nick Bæk Heilmann, Senior Associate, Kaya Partners
Edward Westropp, Head of Business Development and Corporate Affairs, Amaroq Minerals

Moderating is Damien Degeorges, Director of Degeorges Consulting.

This Session was recorded live at the Arctic Circle Business Forum, held October 16th to 17th, during the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, in Reykjavík, Iceland.

NATO’s Arctic Priorities

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What are NATO’s strategic priorities in the Arctic, and how is the Alliance responding to evolving security challenges in the region?

Joining the conversation is Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, Chair of the NATO Military Committee. His remarks are followed by an open Q&A with the audience moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

Arctic Shipbuilding & Icebreakers

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 02:00:00 +0000

How will shipbuilding - and the next generation of icebreakers - help keep the Arctic open, safe, and connected for research, trade, security, and the people who call the region home?

Joining the conversation is James Davies, CEO of Davie Shipbuilding, with Friðrika Geirsdóttir, Director of the Arctic Circle Business Forum, as moderator.

This Session was recorded live at the Arctic Circle Business Forum, held October 16th to 17th, during the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The American Vision

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 02:00:00 +0000

What should be the United States’ priorities, responsibilities, and engagement in the Arctic?

Joining the conversation are U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski and U.S. Senator Angus King who share their insights on United States’ role in the rapidly evolving Arctic landscape. Their remarks are followed by a Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This Session was recorded live at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly, held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

The 2025 Arctic Circle Business Forum

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 21:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Friðrika Geirsdóttir, Director of the Arctic Circle Business Forum, and H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, officially kickoff the 2025 Arctic Circle Business Forum - held at the Reykjavík EDITION Hotel, Iceland, from October 16th to 17th, during the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Along with the previous episode, this opening address marks the beginning of the 10th season of the Arctic Circle Podcast, which will feature discussions from the 2025 Business Forum on how innovation, technology, and international collaboration can drive economic growth and support sustainable development across the Arctic region.

The 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 21:00:00 +0000

In this episode, H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, opens the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly - held at the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 16th to 18th.

This opening address sets the stage for the 10th season of the Arctic Circle Podcast, featuring inspiring and thought-provoking speeches, Sessions, and discussions from the 2025 Assembly.

Whether you’re joining us for the first time or returning as a long-time listener, we invite you to be part of the ongoing conversation about the future of the Arctic and our planet.

The Geopolitical, Geoscientific, and Geoeconomic Arctic

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we bring you an open dialogue on the Arctic’s growing geopolitical, geoscientific, and geoeconomic importance. The Session was co-moderated by H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, and Mihir Sharma, Director of the Centre for Economy and Growth at the Observer Research Foundation.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

Polar Connections

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we discuss how the polar regions serve as bridges connecting Asia with the global community, highlighting collaborative efforts and partnerships that address urgent challenges and drive scientific discovery and innovation.

Moderating the session was Loulia AlKhatib, Researcher at the UAE Presidential Court and Emirates Polar Program Secretariat.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

Climate Action for Arctic Biodiversity

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we focus on Arctic biodiversity, which supports food security and the livelihoods of Arctic communities. Yet today, with climate change accelerating, these ecosystems are under threat of irreversible loss.

Moderating the session was Archana Singh, Scientist D at the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, India.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

Interpolar Knowledge Exchange Program

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we discuss knowledge exchange between the Arctic and the Hindu-Kush Himalaya. The conversation emphasizes two-way interactions between the regions, and stresses the need for an interdisciplinary network of scholars to study both their commonalities and differences.

Moderating the session was Kamrul Hossain, Research Professor at the Arctic Centre of the University of Lapland.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

The Evolving Arctic Order

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the role of non-Arctic states in Arctic governance, and how broader shifts in the global order are affecting the region.

Moderating the session was Larry Ibrahim Mohammed, PhD Research Scholar at UiT - The Arctic University of Norway and Coordinator of the Afro Polar Initiative.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

How Arctic Climate Change Affects Asian Climate

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we talk about how changes in the Arctic region are influencing Asian climate patterns, including monsoons, and the effects on communities in some of the world’s most populated regions.

Moderating the session was Manish Tiwari, Scientist F at the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

Unlocking the Arctic potential

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the importance of global cooperation in responding to the challenges facing the Arctic. As the region transforms, questions of sustainability, governance, and shared responsibility are becoming central to its future and to the global community.

Moderating the Session was Sameer Patil, Director of the Centre for Security, Strategy, and Technology at the Observer Research Foundation.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

The Arctic and the Hindu-Kush Himalaya – Part 2

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we continue our series on the Arctic and the Hindu-Kush Himalaya — this time turning from science to policy and action. What do recent findings mean for decision-making? And how can the concept of a cryosphere corridor guide interregional collaboration between these two vital regions?

Moderating the session was Santosh Kumar Rauniyar, Project Advisor at the Ocean Policy Research Institute of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

The Arctic and the Hindu-Kush Himalaya – Part 1

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we begin a two-part series on the links between the Arctic and the Hindu-Kush Himalaya. We start with the science: how research in these two regions, together described as a cryosphere corridor, reveals shared challenges of melting ice, water security, and climate change.

This episode is introduced by H.E. Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Chair of the Arctic Circle Polar Dialogue and former Prime Minister of Iceland.

Moderating the session was Mohd. Farooq Azam, Senior Cryosphere Specialist and Intervention Manager for Cryosphere Intervention at ICIMOD.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

The Arctic from Outer Space

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look up to the Arctic sky. Connectivity has always been a challenge in the North: for shipping routes, for scientific research, and for the daily lives of Arctic communities. Now, with new ground stations being built in the region, opportunities are opening for advanced Earth observation, for monitoring geomagnetic activity, and with it, new implications for international law in the regulation of outer space.

Moderating the session was Chaitanya Giri, Fellow at the Centre for Security, Strategy and Technology at the Observer Research Foundation.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

Towards A Global Arctic Science Policy Initiative

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we explore the growing involvement of the Global South in Arctic research and why it matters.

This session discusses the possibility of creating a Global Arctic Science Policy Initiative as a collaborative research network linking scientific institutions, universities, and think tanks from both the Global North and South. The goal: to strengthen shared understanding and joint research efforts in the face of global climate challenges.

Moderating the session was Ramcharan Vijayaraghavan, Executive Committee Member at Polar Educators International.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

Blue Economy and Maritime Security

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we turn our attention to how Nordic countries and India are engaging with the questions of blue economy and maritime security in the context of the Arctic and beyond.

As Arctic waters open and interest in ocean resources grows, new challenges and opportunities are emerging around sustainable development, marine governance, and strategic cooperation.

Moderating the session was Maria Elizabeth Joseph, Assistant Director of the Ananta Centre.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

The New Emirates Polar Program

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we take a closer look at the United Arab Emirates’ new polar program.

As global interest in the Arctic continues to grow, countries beyond the region, including those in the Middle East and South Asia, are stepping up investments in polar science, climate research, and international cooperation.

To explore this emerging landscape, the conversation brought together:

Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates
Jan-Gunnar Winther, Pro-rector for Research and Development, UiT The Arctic University of Norway
Thamban Meloth, Director, National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), India
Wassim Said, Advisor to the UAE Presidential Court and member of the Emirates Polar Program Steering Committee

Moderating the Session was Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Chair of the Arctic Circle Polar Dialogue and former Prime Minister of Iceland.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

The Future of the Arctic (Part-2)

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we continue our look at the changing Arctic, this time from the perspectives of Arctic and European states.

The region is undergoing rapid transformation. While this brings challenges for Arctic communities, it also raises broader questions: about international cooperation, environmental responsibility, and the Arctic’s growing geopolitical and scientific importance.

As large parts of the Arctic Ocean open, the region is emerging as a new frontier: economically, scientifically, and politically. So, what does the future of the Arctic look like?

This conversation brought together:

Petteri Vuorimäki: Arctic Ambassador, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland
Piotr Rychlik: Ambassador for Arctic and Antarctic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Poland
Agostino Pinna: Special Envoy for the Arctic, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy

Moderating the Session was Samir Saran, President of the Observer Research Foundation.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

The Future of the Arctic (Part-1)

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the Arctic from the perspective of Asia. As the Arctic changes, it’s becoming a space of global concern, not only for the Arctic states, but also for countries around the world.

The region is emerging as a new frontier: economically, scientifically, and politically. And with that, new questions are arising around how Arctic and non-Arctic states can work together.

So, what does the future of the Arctic look like?
This conversation brings together voices from across Asia:

Byung-ha Chung, Ambassador for Polar Affairs, Republic of Korea
Sam Tan Chin Siong, Special Envoy for Arctic Affairs, Singapore
Rear Admiral TVN Prasanna, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Government of India

Moderating the Session was Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

Arctic Biodiversity

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we turn to Arctic biodiversity and planetary health. How have plants, animals, and people adapted to life in the North? And what can those adaptations teach us about resilience in a rapidly changing world?

This conversation brings together diverse perspectives: from human physiology and hydrology to ecology and Indigenous health research. You will learn about the plasticity of biological systems and the critical role the Arctic plays in understanding both environmental changes and global health.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

Greenland's Green Energy Opportunities

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, H.E. Kalistat Lund, then Greenland’s Minister of Agriculture, Self-Sufficiency, Energy, and Environment, discusses opportunities for green energy development in Greenland.

This conversation was recorded live at the 2024 Arctic Circle Business Forum, and is part of our new Spotlight series.

The $1 Trillion Arctic Question

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 02:00:00 +0000

Should we invest in one of the world’s most remote and resource-rich regions?

The Arctic has the potential to feed the world with healthy, nutritious seafood, provide the raw materials essential to the sustainable transition, and power societies with both conventional and renewable energy. But unlocking that potential requires closing a massive infrastructure gap. From roads and ports to energy facilities and digital connectivity, more than $1 trillion is estimated to be needed to fully develop the region. Done right, this could create quality jobs, boost local economies, and strengthen Arctic communities.

In this panel discussion, we ask: is it worth it?

At the table are:

Heidar Gudjonsson, CEO of Ursus Investments
Constance Chalchat, Chief Sustainability Officer, BNP Paribas CIB & Global Markets
Mikki Jensen, Director of South Innovation Greenland

This session is moderated by Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Executive Director of the Arctic Economic Council, and was recorded live at the 2024 Arctic Circle Business Forum.

An Arctic Transformed: Potentials and Politics

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the Arctic as a region in transformation - one that’s evolving due to shifting geopolitics, changing economies, and the growing impact of climate change. A panel of distinguished guests shares their insights on how the strategic imaginary of the Arctic is changing and what new possibilities and political realities are emerging as the world’s attention turns more toward this region.

Joining us today are:

Sanjay Chaturvedi, Director of the Institute of South Asian Studies; and Dean of the Faculty of International Studies at the South Asian University
May-Elin Stener, Ambassador of Norway to India
Pankaj Saran, Convenor at NatStrat
Stuti Banerjee, Senior Fellow at the Indian Council of World Affairs
Torsten Kjølby Nielsen, Senior Arctic Official of the Kingdom of Denmark
Harsh V. Pant, Vice President of the Observer Research Foundation, and moderator of this panel.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

The Indian Parliament’s Vision for Ice-Covered Regions

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Milind Deora and Anurag Thakur, Members of the Parliament of India, join H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, to share their vision for the ice-covered regions of our planet.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

Science Diplomacy in the Age of Division

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we reflect on how science diplomacy can bridge divides and build trust across regions. Today’s crises, characterized by rising conflicts, climate change, mass displacement, and growing science denial, are deeply interconnected, with ripple effects felt across the globe, from the Arctic to the Himalaya–Third Pole. In this age of division, collaboration across borders and disciplines is more important than ever.

Joining us for this conversation are:

M Ravichandran, Secretary at the Ministry of Earth Sciences of India
Jean Lemire, Envoy for Climate Change and Northern and Arctic Affairs of the Government of Québec
Jan-Gunnar Winther, Pro-rector for Research and Development at UiT The Arctic University of Norway
Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD - International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development
H.E. Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Chair of the Arctic Circle Polar Dialogue, former Prime Minister of Iceland, and moderator of this panel.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue.

A Conversation with the Minister of External Affairs of India

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, H.E. S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of India, joins Samir Saran, President of the Observer Research Foundation, and H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, to discuss India’s engagement in the Arctic.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025, and is part of the Polar Dialogue Series.

The Kingdom of Denmark’s Chairship of the Arctic Council

Tue, 27 May 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Kenneth Høegh, Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials and Arctic Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark, presents the priorities and mission of the Kingdom of Denmark's chairship of the Arctic Council 2025–2027. He’s joined by Torsten Kjølby Nielsen, Senior Arctic Official of the Kingdom of Denmark, for a Q&A with the audience.

This conversation was recorded live at the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025.

Welcome to the India Forum

Tue, 20 May 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we take you to the opening session of the Arctic Circle India Forum, held in New Delhi on May 3–4, 2025.

Kicking off the event were H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland, and Samir Saran, President of the Observer Research Foundation.

The Forum was co-hosted by Arctic Circle and the Observer Research Foundation, in collaboration with India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Earth Sciences.

The India Forum underscored the growing importance of the Arctic beyond its immediate region, and how developments across Asia are shaping global politics, trade, and sustainability, including in the Arctic.

Let’s roll the tape.

Sailing for Science in the Polar Seas

Tue, 13 May 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we explore how small, low-impact research platforms are changing the way science is conducted in the polar regions. As research activity in the Arctic grows, so does the need to reduce its environmental footprint—while increasing the value it brings to both the natural world and the communities who call it home.

We’ll hear why collaboration between scientists and infrastructure experts is essential, and how smart design, efficient logistics, and shared values are making polar research more effective, sustainable, and respectful. From practical field strategies to rethinking the way research stations are built, this conversation highlights how teamwork and innovation are shaping the future of science in fragile environments..

Joining us are:

Patrick Aebischer: Founder of the Forel Heritage Association
Cornelius Eich: Head of Partnership & Sustainability at Boris Herrmann Team Malizia
Arved Fuchs: Expedition Leader at OCEAN CHANGE
Morten Rasch: Polar Scientist at Activ Expeditions
Romain Troublé: CEO of the Tara Ocean Foundation
Danièle Rod: Executive Director of the Swiss Polar Institute

The conversation is moderated by Antje Boetius, then-Director of the Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, and Co-Chair of the Polar Dialogue.

This panel was recorded live at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly, as part of the Polar Dialogue.

Forging Joint Climate Action: Accelerating Global Energy Transition

Tue, 06 May 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we assess the status of the global energy transition needed to address climate change and its impacts on ecosystems and societies.

Joining the discussion are:

H.E. Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of the People’s Republic of China
Oran Young, Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University of California, Santa Barbara
Sanna Kopra, Research Professor at the Arctic Centre, University of Lapland
Yang Jian, Vice President & Senior Research Fellow at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (SIIS)
H.E. Adnan Amin, CEO of COP 28 and Director General Emeritus of IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency)

The conversation and Q&A with the audience are moderated by H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This panel discussion originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

The Nippon Foundation’s Call for the Oceans

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Hon. Sasakawa Yōhei, Chairman of The Nippon Foundation, calls for unity and collective action to tackle the urgent challenges facing the world’s oceans, both in the Arctic and globally, in order to secure peace and prosperity for all of humanity.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Singapore and the Arctic

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Hon. Sim Ann, Singapore’s Senior Minister of State, returns to the Arctic Circle Assembly to discuss Singapore’s shared future with the Arctic in the face of melting ice and rising sea levels.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly

Innovating Ocean Data: Arctificial Intelligence and Business Investments

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 02:00:00 +0000

You’re listening to the Arctic Circle Podcast.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into how ocean data and analysis are enabling technologies that can support better decision-making across the Arctic - socially, environmentally, and economically.

We’ll explore the ocean data value chain, and take a look at both established and emerging use cases, from aquaculture and commercial operations to government and defense. We’ll also talk about how ocean and climate data are being used in dynamic risk management, and how they’re helping drive innovation in insurance.

Joining us today are:

Blaine Grimes, Chief Ventures Officer at Gulf of Maine Ventures, Gulf of Maine Research Institute
Ólavur Gregersen, CEO of Ocean Rainforest
Steve Woll, COO and Head of Business Development at Ocean Data Network
Dan Bookham, Senior Vice President for Business Development and Commercial Lines at Allen Insurance & Financial

The conversation and the audience Q&A are moderated by Dan Berger, Director of the Maine North Atlantic Development Office at the Maine International Trade Center.

This panel was organized by the Maine International Trade Center and NORA – North Atlantic Cooperation, and it was recorded live at the 2024 Arctic Circle Business Forum.

The United Kingdom and the Arctic

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, MP Stephen Doughty, the United Kingdom’s Minister of State for Europe, North America, and Overseas Territories, responsible for relations with the Polar regions, reflects on the UK’s engagement in the Arctic amid rising global challenges.

The discussion 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 was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Polar Dialogue: Why Ice Matters

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we invite you to engage in the Polar Dialogue, a new initiative within the Arctic Circle framework aimed at fostering constructive discussions on the Arctic, Antarctic, the Himalaya - Third Pole region, and other ice-covered areas, with a focus on scientific and research cooperation.

Our panelists include:

H.E. Pascal Lamy: Vice President of the Paris Peace Forum and former Director-General of the World Trade Organization
Henry Burgess: Head of the NERC Arctic Office (UK) and President of the International Arctic Science Committee
Jefferson Cardia Simões: Professor of Glaciology & Polar Geography at the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
Pema Gyamtsho: Director General of the ICIMOD
Miyuki Qiajunnguaq Daorana: Youth Delegate from Greenland and Master’s student in Anthropological-Inughuit studies at UiT-The Arctic University of Norway

The discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Chair of the Polar Dialogue and former Prime Minister of Iceland, along with Antje Boetius, Co-Chair of the Polar Dialogue and Director of the Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research in Germany.

This panel originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly as part of the inaugural Polar Dialogue.

Is the Arctic the Key to Europe’s Energy Future?

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, H.E. Kadri Simson, EU Commissioner for Energy, outlines the European Union’s commitment to a fair and green transition in the Arctic. She emphasizes the role of renewable energy in advancing energy independence and economic competitiveness, while reaffirming the EU’s dedication to supporting sustainable development in the region, as outlined in the 2021 Arctic Strategy.

The following Q&A with the audience is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski receives the 2024 Arctic Circle Prize

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we honor Lisa Murkowski, U.S. Senator from Alaska and Vice Chair of the Standing Committee of Parliamentarians of the Arctic Region, as she receives the 2024 Arctic Circle Prize for her leadership in Arctic affairs in the United States and globally. As one of the foremost experts on Arctic policy in the U.S. Congress, she plays a key role in shaping national policies and fostering international cooperation to maintain the Arctic as a peaceful and sustainable region.

The Arctic Circle Prize recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to securing a sustainable and prosperous future for the Arctic. Join us as we discuss Senator Murkowski’s impact and ongoing efforts in this critical region.

The 2024 Arctic Circle Prize was awarded during the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

The Faroe Islands' Arctic Policy

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Herálvur Joensen, Permanent Secretary of the Faroese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Industry, introduces the Faroe Islands’ New Arctic Policy. He outlines the nation’s vision as an active partner in the Arctic and emphasizes its commitment to international cooperation and engagement in key forums, including the Arctic Council.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Inuit: The Future We Want

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 02:00:00 +0000

Today, four Inuit representatives share their expert insights on economic, social, cultural, and political issues, and how these challenges shape the future of the Inuit Peoples.

The panelists included:

Verner Hammeken, then CEO of Royal Arctic Line A/S, Greenland
Valerie Davidson, former Lieutenant Governor, Alaska, USA
Sara Olsvig, then Director UNICEF Greenland
Aluki Kotierk, President of Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.

This Session originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly and was moderated by Dalee Sambo Dorough, Chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Council.

UNESCO and the Arctic

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, H.E. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, discusses UNESCO’s contributions to Arctic issues and dialogue. She highlights how its approach offers a unique perspective and innovative solutions to Arctic challenges, emphasizing the importance of its scientific mandate, the protection of vital sites, and the support of traditional knowledge.

The following Q&A with the audience is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Greenlanders at a Crossroads: Shaping Tomorrow

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 02:00:00 +0000

Today, we’re listening to a panel discuss Greenland’s role and perspective in tackling the challenges ahead.

The panelists included:

Jacob S. Isbosethsen, Head of Representation in Beijing, Government of Greenland
Malik Peter Koch Hansen, Board Member of Nunanut Allanut Politikkeqarnermut Peqatigiiffik, The Greenland Foreign Policy Society
Qivioq Løvstøm, Assistant Professor, Ilisimatusarfik/University of Greenland; Chair, Human Rights Council of Greenland
Ulrik Pram Gad, Senior Researcher, Danish Institute for International Studies
Klaus Georg Hansen, then Senior Analyst, Danish Institute for International Studies

The panel was chaired by Minori Takahashi, Associate Professor, Hokkai-Gakuen University, Sapporo.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized in association with the Government of Greenland, Representation in Beijing; and the Danish Institute for International Studies.

Climate Change in the Arctic

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we reflect on the 20th anniversary of the Arctic Climate Impact Assessment. This landmark report, created through the collaboration of scientists, experts, and Indigenous representatives, remains to this day the most comprehensive, multidisciplinary analysis of climate change in the Arctic, examining its far-reaching impacts on ecosystems, communities, and the planet as a whole.

Our panelists include:

Ambassador David Balton: Executive Director of the Arctic Executive Steering Committee at the White House’s Office of Science & Technology Policy, and former Senior Fellow at the Wilson Center’s Polar Institute.
Morten Høglund: Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials at the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Herb Nakimayak: Vice President of the Inuit Circumpolar Council Canada, and Executive Council Member of the Inuit Circumpolar Council International.
Petteri Taalas: Director General of the Finnish Meteorological Institute.
Gunn-Britt Retter: Head of the Arctic and Environmental Unit at the Saami Council.

The discussion is introduced by Mike Sfraga, U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs and Former Chair of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission, and moderated by Heidi Sevestre, Deputy Secretary at AMAP - the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme.

This panel originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Greenland on the World Stage

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Today, we listen to H.E. Múte B. Egede, Prime Minister of Greenland, speaking of the role of Greenland on the world stage. The speech is followed by a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Greenland, the U.S. (and Canada): What’s the Deal?

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000

You’re listening to the Arctic Circle podcast.

In this episode, you are invited to join a dialogue about the emerging trade routes connecting Greenland, Canada, and the United States. Listen in as experts unpack the opportunities for economic growth and strengthening of North American ties, but also discuss the challenges at hand.

The panelists include:

Thomas 'Tyt' Mogensen, CEO of Nalik Ventures, Greenland
Karl Inuk Faurschou, Advisor, Ministry of Independence and Foreign Affairs, Greenlandic Representation in Reykjavík
Mark Hopkins, COO of Hancock Lumber, USA
Niels Clemensen, CEO of Royal Arctic Line, Greenland

This dialogue was hosted by the Maine International Trade Center and took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Business Forum.

Iceland, A Land of Solutions

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, H.E. Halla Tómasdóttir, President of Iceland, addresses the Arctic and global community, calling for bold and urgent action to tackle environmental disruptions, inequality, discrimination, misinformation, and rising conflicts. She underscores Iceland's commitment to becoming a hub of solutions for solving the world’s most pressing challenges.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

China’s Climate Vision for the Arctic

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, H.E. Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of the People’s Republic of China, outlines China’s priorities in Arctic climate governance. He highlights the importance of scientific research, clean energy and transport development, and the strengthening of economic and scientific cooperation.

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.

A Message from the Norwegian Chairship of the Arctic Council

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 02:00:00 +0000

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.

NATO in the Arctic

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 02:00:00 +0000

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.

Indigenizing International Law

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 02:00:00 +0000

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 Finland
Kate Mackintosh: Executive Director of the UCLA Law Promise Institute Europe

The 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.

The U.S. Department of Defense's 2024 Arctic Strategy

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 02:00:00 +0000

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.

Should You Invest in the Arctic?

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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.

Inuit Strength and Peace - Pertujaassuseq Eqqisseqatigiinnerlu

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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 Council
Lisa Koperqualuk: President of ICC Canada
Kuupik V. Kleist: former President of ICC Greenland
Dalee Sambo Dorough: former International Chair of ICC
Doreen Fogg-Leavitt: Inupiat Community of the Arctic Slope, ICC Alaska Alternate Board Member

The 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.

Italy in the Arctic

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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!

The AMOC Shutdown 101: A Crash Course with Prof. Stefan Rahmstorf

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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.

The New Role of India in the Arctic and the Poles

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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!

The U.S. & the Arctic: A Conversation with Senator Lisa Murkowski and Ambassador Mike Sfraga

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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.

Greenland's New Foreign, Security and Defense Policy

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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.

The Arctic at Critical Crossroads

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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.

Admiral Rob Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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.

Welcome to the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

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 Berlin Forum Wrap-up

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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.

Is Non-Arctic Europe an Asset for the Arctic?

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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 Iceland
Carmine Robustelli: Special Envoy for the Arctic at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy
Claire Buckley: Irish Ambassador to Iceland & Norway
Piotr Rakowski: former Senior Advisor for Arctic Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Poland
Clara Ganslandt: EU Ambassador to Iceland; former EU Special Envoy for Arctic Matters

The 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.

What’s Next With and Without Russia?

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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, Germany
Rasmus Bertelsen: Professor at UiT - The Arctic University of Norway
Olena Podvorna: Senior Researcher at the Peace Research Institute Frankfurt
Christoph Humrich: Assistant Professor, Centre for International Relations Research at the University of Groningen, Netherlands
Michael Paul: Senior Fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs

The 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.

Co-Creation and Two-Eyed Seeing

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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 Council
Naja 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 States
Nina Döring: Research Group Leader at the Research Institute for Sustainability – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam, Germany
Evie Morin: Research Associate at the Research Institute for Sustainability – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam, Germany
Anne Chahine: Research Associate at the Research Institute for Sustainability – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam, Germany

The 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 Geopolitics 201

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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 Assembly
Hon. Bryndís Haraldsdóttir MP: President of the Nordic Council
Michael Paul: Senior Fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP)
Rasmus Bertelsen: Professor at UiT - The Arctic University of Norway

The 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.

Green Energy from the Arctic

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 02:00:00 +0000

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 Government
André Küüsvek: CEO & President of the Nordic Investment Bank
Robert Howe: Managing Director of Bremenports, Germany

The 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 Geopolitics 101: Germany’s Perspective

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Tjorven Bellmann, Political Director of the German Federal Foreign Office, shares Germany’s perspective on the implications of geopolitics for Arctic governance and cooperation.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.

The Global Arctic: Security & Cooperation

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we engage in an insightful conversation between two distinguished members of the Arctic Circle Mission Council on the GlobalArctics:

Heather Exner-Pirot: Managing Editor of the Arctic Yearbook and Senior Fellow & Director of Energy, Natural Resources, and Environment at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, Canada.
Lassi Heininen: Professor Emeritus and Visiting Researcher at the Aleksanteri Institute, University of Helsinki, Finland.

Heather and Lassi discuss the evolving dynamics of Arctic cooperation amidst shifting regional and global geopolitical tensions. Their exchange focuses on the role of international functional cooperation as a means to enhance security in the Arctic. The conversation also opens up to audience questions.

This event originally aired as the inaugural Arctic Circle Webcast Session in April 2022.

The Arctic Circle Mission Council on the GlobalArctic, which was formally launched at the 2019 Arctic Circle China Forum in Shanghai, aims to interpret the globalized Arctic, encourage research and uphold dialogue on these various developments. Its members have in their professional capacities spearheaded the discussion on the GlobalArctic and will continue through the Mission Council to encourage dialogue and explore the concept and implications of the GlobalArctic.

Turned to Stone - How to Permanently Store CO₂

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we learn more about CarbFix, the Icelandic company that has pioneered a method to permanently store CO₂ by transforming it into stone deep underground. Our special guest, Edda Sif Pind Aradóttir, CEO of CarbFix, will introduce this groundbreaking technology and discuss its role as a crucial tool in the fight against the climate crisis. She will also take questions from the audience.

This event originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Lava, Space and the Arctic too

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we explore the new perspectives that research on seismic activity offers on the interplay between the Arctic and space. We will specifically examine the broader implications of studying the eruption of Iceland’s Fagradalsfjall volcano, which began on March 19, 2021, and continued for six months, for both Earth and space sciences.

Our panelists include:

Shay Strong, Vice President of Product + Engineering
Freysteinn Sigmundsson, Research Professor, Nordic Volcanological Center, Institute of Earth Sciences, University of Iceland
Vincent Drouin, Geophysicist, Icelandic Meteorological Office
Daniel Leeb, Executive Mission Director & CEO, Iceland Space Agency

The discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Tero Vauraste, Senior Business Development Advisor, ICEYE; Senior Advisor, IQM Quantum Computers.

This panel originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Arctic Security Spotlight: Greenland and Iceland

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we examine the emerging security concerns in Greenland and Iceland amidst growing international attention to the Arctic region. Our discussion spans geopolitical strategies, defense policies, environmental challenges, and international collaboration.

Our panelist include:

Aaja Chemnitz Larsen: Member of the Danish Parliament
Sara Olsvig: International Chair of Inuit Circumpolar Council; Ph.D. Candidate, Ilisimatusarfik - University of Greenland; Former Vice Premier & Minister of Social Affairs, Families, Gender Equality and Justice, Government of Greenland; Member, Constitutional Commission of Greenland
Marc Lanteigne, Professor, Political Science Department, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway
Egill Níelsson, Senior Advisor, Rannís - The Icelandic Center for Research

The discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Halla Hrund Logadóttir, Director General, Icelandic National Energy Authority.

This panel originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Arctic Renewable Energy: A Regional and Global Game Changer

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Francesco La Camera, Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), discusses the critical role of renewable energy for the Arctic and its global significance.

The event and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Guðni A. Jóhannesson, Former Director General of the National Energy Authority of Iceland.

This session originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Arctic Tipping Points

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we will explore Arctic Tipping Points, discussing, among other things, the loss of the Greenland Ice Sheet, the impacts on the Arctic ecosystem, and changes in atmospheric circulation.

Our panelists include:

Stefan Rahmstorf: Professor of Physics of the Oceans at the University of Potsdam, Germany
Antje Boetius: Director, Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Germany
Halldór Björnsson: Head of the Atmospheric Research Group at the Icelandic Meteorological Office

The discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Brynhildur Davíðsdóttir, Professor of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Iceland.

This panel originally took place the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly.

The Arctic Film Industry Storms Hollywood

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we will explore the growing Arctic Film Sector, examining its place in the film industry.

Our panelists include:

Baltasar Kormákur Baltasarsson: Director & Producer, Iceland
Anne Lajla Utsi: Managing Director of the International Sámi Film Institute
Laufey Guðjónsdóttir: Former Director of the Icelandic Film Centre

The discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Liisa Holmberg, Film Commissioner at the International Sámi Film Insitute.

This panel originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly.

But Why the Arctic Blue Economy?

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we listen to four distinguished experts discussing concrete examples of actions within the Blue Economy, both in the private and public sector and how the Blue Economy affects the Arctic Region.

Our panelists include:

Bryndís Björnsdóttir, Head of Industry Solutions at Matis, Iceland
Leslie Canavera, CEO of PolArctic, USA
Patrick Arnold, Co-Founder & CEO of the New England Ocean Cluster, USA

The discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Executive Director of the Arctic Economic Council.

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Germany’s Environmental Policy and the Arctic

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, H.E. Steffi Lemke, German Federal Minister for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection, presents the guiding principles of Germany’s environmental policy and its connection to Arctic issues.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.

Satellite and Remote Sensing

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we will explore how satellite and remote sensing technologies are paving the way for a new era of collaboration between research and industry, emphasizing the crucial role of private sector involvement in research and development.

Our panelists include:

Guido Grosse: Head of Permafrost Research Section at the Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Center for Polar and Marine Research, Germany;
Mads Qvist Frederiksen: Executive Director of the Arctic Economic Council;
Ashley Morris: Remote Sensing Officer at the Svalbard Integrated Arctic Earth Observing System (SIOS), Norway;
Anica Huck: Earth Observation Liaison for European Organisations at Planet;
Nina Soleng: Head of Communications at Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT), Norway.

The discussion and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Franz Immler, Head of the Environmental Observation Sector, Directorate-General for Research & Innovation at the European Commission

This event originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.

Decolonizing Knowledge

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Áslat Holmberg, President of the Saami Council, addresses the Arctic and international community, explaining that thriving ecosystems and regional peace depend on the decolonization of knowledge production, locally sensitive and sustainable resource management, and ongoing cooperation at all levels.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.

Polar Dialogue

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we will look into the next steps and recommendations for advancing polar cooperation and dialogue, building on the momentum from the One Planet - Polar Summit in Paris and the Polar Symposium in Monaco.

Our panelists include:

Pascal Lamy: Vice-President of the Paris Peace Forum and former Director-General of the World Trade Organization (2005-2013)
Frederik Paulsen: Chair of the Board of the University of the Arctic
Antje Boetius: Director of the Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research in Germany

The 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 Polar Dialogue will be convened at the upcoming 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly, taking place from October 17 to 19 in Reykjavík, Iceland.

H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco: Collaborative Solutions for Arctic Challenges

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

You’re listening to the Arctic Circle Podcast.

In this episode, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco addresses the Arctic and international community, reaffirming the need for collective action and collaboration in overcoming the multifaceted challenges faced by human societies.

This speech was originally delivered at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.

Scientific Contributions of Arctic Council Observers

Mon, 27 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we will explore and discuss the scientific contributions of Arctic Council Observers.

Our panelists include:

Gabriela Schaepman-Strub: Swiss Observer Representative to the Conservation of the Arctic Flora and Fauna Working Group of the Arctic Council;
Volker Rachold: Head of the German Arctic Office at the Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Center for Polar and Marine Research;
Annette Scheepstra: Dutch Observer Representative to the Sustainable Development Working Group of the Arctic Council
Morten Høglund: Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials of the Arctic Council;
Sam Tan: Special Envoy for Arctic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore.

The panel and following Q&A with the audience are moderated by Henry Burgess, Head of the NERC Arctic Office at the British Antarctic Survey and President of the International Arctic Science Committee.

This event originally took place at the 2024 Arctic Circle Berlin Forum.

Critical Minerals in the Arctic

Wed, 08 May 2024 15:00:00 +0000

You’re listening to the Arctic Circle Podcast, in this episode we listen to a panel of experts discussing Critical Minerals in the Arctic.

Panelists are:

Karen Hanghøj, Director, British Geological Survey
Josephine Nymand, Director, Greenland Institute of Natural Resources & Chair, Greenland Research Council
Øystein Rushfeldt, CEO, Nussir ASA

The panel is moderated by Jane Francis, Director, British Antarctic Survey.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

The Success of the Arctic Circle Japan Forum

Wed, 01 May 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Atsushi Sunami, President, Sasakawa Peace Foundation, speak on the success of the Arctic Circle Japan Forum.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Protection of our Oceans: The Historic Central Arctic Ocean Fisheries Agreement

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to short presentations from various partners to the Historic Central Arctic Ocean Fisheries Agreement.

Panelists are:

David A. Balton, Ambassador; Executive Director, Arctic Executive Steering Committee, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, USA
Nadia Bouffard, Director General, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Canada
Antje Boetius, Director of the Alfred Wegener Insitute
Gao Feng, Special Representative for Arctic Affairs, China
Alan Haynie, General Secretary, International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES)
Guðmundur Kristjánsson, CEO Brim
Joji Morishita, Professor, Tokyo University of Marine Science
Herb Nakimayak, Executive Council Member, Inuit Circumpolar Council
Park Chong-Suk, Ambassador for Arctic Affairs, Korea
Myeong-dal Song, Deputy Minister for the Marine Policy Office, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of the Republic of Korea
Miguel Roncero, International Relations Officer, Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE), European Commission
Rolf Rødven, Executive Secretary, Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Program (AMAP)
Hyoung Chul Shin, Vice President, Korea Polar Research Institute of Marine Research (KOPRI)
Vicki Lee Wallgren, Director of the Arctic Programme, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)

The panel is moderated by Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Executive Director, Arctic Economic Council.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly and was organized in collaboration with the Arctic Economic Council and the Korean Polar Research Institute (KOPRI).

Asian Countries in the Arctic: Lessons from the last 10 years

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to representatives of five Asian countries discuss the lessons from the past 10 years of Asian participation in the Arctic.

Panelists are:

GAO FENG, Special Representative for Arctic Affairs, China
TAKEWAKA KEIZO, Ambassador for Arctic Affairs, Japan
REAR ADMIRAL MONTY KHANNA (Retd), Joint Secretary, National Security Council Secretariat, India
PARK CHONG-SUK, Ambassador for Arctic Affairs, Korea
SAM TAN, Special Envoy for Arctic Affairs, Singapore

The panel is moderated by H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland and Evan T. Bloom, Senior Fellow, Wilson Center Polar Institute; Former Senior U.S. Diplomat in Charge of Polar Affairs.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

What is Science Diplomacy?

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to five experts discuss Arctic Science Diplomacy.

Panelists are:

Mark Myers, Director, US Geological Survey; Commissioner, U.S. Arctic Research Commission
Victoria Qutuuq Bushman, Environment and Climate Advisor, Inuit Circumpolar Council; Indigenous Fellow, International Arctic Science Committee (IASC)
Melody Brown Burkins, Director, Arctic Center, Dartmouth College, USA
Henry Burgess, President, International Arctic Science Committee (IASC); Head, NERC Arctic Office, United Kingdom
Rachel Tiller, Chief Scientist, SINTEF Ocean, Norway

The panel is moderated by Corine Wood-Donnelly, Associate Professor of International Relations and the High North, Nord University, Norway; Uppsala University, Sweden

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

H.E. Høgni Høydal, The Faroe Islands in the Arctic

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Høgni Høydal, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Industry and Trade; Deputy Prime Minister, the Faroe Islands, speak on the Faroe Islands in the Arctic.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly. The speech is followed by a Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

Green Hydrogen: The Energy Future of the North?

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Panelists are:

H.E. Gillian Martin, Minister for Energy and the Environment, The Scottish Government
Tove Søvndal Gant, Head of the Greenlandic Representation in Reykjavik
Frank Yu, Global Vice President of Envision Energy and Head of Envision Hydrogen
Tryggvi Þór Herbertsson, Head of Hydrogen Strategy and Partnership, Qair Group

The panel is moderated by Össur Skarphéðinsson, Former Minister for Foreign Affairs, Iceland.

Andrew Light: The U.S. Energy Mission

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 15:00:00 +0000

You’re listening to the Arctic Circle Podcast, in this episode we listen to Andrew Light, Assistant Secretary of Energy for International Affairs, U.S. Department of Energy, discuss the U.S. Energy Mission.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Security and Defense

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a dialogue on Security and Defense, with four experts in the field.

Panelists are:

Iris Ferguson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Arctic and Global Resilience, United States
Louise Calais, Ambassador for Arctic Affairs, Sweden
Inga Nyhamar, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Norway
Petteri Vuorimäki, Ambassador for Arctic and Antarctic Affairs & Senior Arctic Official of Finland

The panel is moderated by Matthew Hickey, Associate Director, Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly and was organized in collaboration with the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies.

The New Arctic Vision of the United States: Dialogue with Senator Lisa Murkowski

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Lisa Murkowski, United States Senator from Alaska, speak on the New Arctic Vision of the United States.

The Senator's speech is followed by a Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

The Mãori Come to the Arctic

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a dialogue with three Mãori representatives discussing Climate Change and our shared future. Opening remarks are provided by Andé Küüsvek, CEO, Nordic Investment Bank.

Panelists are:

Aperahama Edwards, Ambassador, Hinemoana Halo Initiative, Ngāti Wai, New Zealand
Lisa Tumahai, Chairperson, Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, New Zealand
Mere Takoko, Vice President, Conservation International Aotearoa, Ngāti Porou, Rongowhakaata, New Zealand

The panel is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Honourable Dan Vandal, Canada's Arctic: Challenges and Opportunities

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Government of Canada, speak on Canada's Arctic, it's challenges and opportunities.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

The First Arctic Marine Biotech Unicorn

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a dialogue between Fertram Sigurjónsson, Founder and CEO of Kerecis and H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle as they discuss the success of Kerecis, the first Arctic Marine Biotech Unicorn.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

The Future of Arctic Investment

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a dialogue between three financial experts, discussing the future of Arctic Investment. Opening remarks are provided by André Küüsvek, CEO, Nordic Investment Bank.

Panelists are:

André Küüsvek, CEO Nordic Investment Bank (NIB)
Iða Brá Benediktsdóttir, Deputy CEO Arion Bank
Hugh Short, Co-Founder, Chairman/CEO Pt Capital

The panel is moderated by Danielle Bochove, Toronto Bureau Chief & Senior Reporter for the Arctic, Bloomberg News

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

H.E. Katrín Jakobsdóttir: Climate Change and Global Challenges

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Prime Minister of Iceland, speak on
climate change and global challenges.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Morten Høglund: The Vision of the Norwegian Chairship of the Arctic Council

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Morten Høglund, Chair, of the Senior Arctic Officials, speak on the Vision of the Norwegian Chairship of the Arctic Council.

Indigenous Peoples in Global Solutions

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a dialogue between five leaders of Indigenous Organizations. Opening remarks are provided by Sara Olsvig, International Chair, Inuit Circumpolar Council.

Panelists are:

Sara Olsvig, International Chair, Inuit Circumpolar Council
Edward Alexander, Director and Co-Chair, Gwich’in Council International
Chief Bill Erasmus, Arctic Athabaskan Council
Jessica Veldstra, Executive Director, Aleut International Association
Tonje Johansen, Sami Council

The panel is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Admiral Rob Bauer: The NATO Perspective on the Arctic

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Admiral Rob Bauer, Chair of NATO Military Committee, speak on NATO's Perspective on the Arctic.

H.E. Sim Ann: Climate Vulnerabilities and the Arctic: a View from the Equador

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Honorable Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of National Development, Singapore, speak on Climate Vulnerabilities and the Arctic: A View from the Equator.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Climate Ministers Panel: Leading up to COP28

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a dialogue between three distinguished Climate Ministers.

Panelists are:

H.E. Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarson, Minister for the Environment, Energy, and Climate, Iceland
H.E. Gillian Martin, Minister for Energy and the Environment, Scotland
H.E. Mariam Bent Mohammed Saeed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, the United Arab Emirates

The panel took place following the speech and dialogue with Minister Almeiri and is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

H.E. Mariam Almheiri: Global Climate Change and COP28

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, the United Arab Emirates, speak on global climate change and the objectives for COP28.

H.E. Dr. Sultan Al Jaber: The Mission of the Global Climate Conference COP28

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to President-Designate of COP28, H.E. Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, the United Arab Emirates; Special Envoy for Climate Change, speak on the Mission of the Global Climate Conference COP28.

H.E. Lars Løkke Rasmussen: The importance of Cooperation and Sustainable Future in the Arctic

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Denmark, speak on the importance of cooperation in the Arctic for a sustainable future.

The Paris Summit: One Planet and the Poles

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a discussion on the Paris Summit: One Planet and the Poles.

Opening remarks are provided by Olivier Poivre d'Arvor, Ambassador for Polar and Maritime Issues, Republic of France.

Panelists are:

Miriam Jackson, Programme Coordinator, Cryosphere Initiative, ICIMOD
Antje Boetius, Director, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Germany
Jerome Chappellaz, Research Director, Centre National de Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), France; Professor; Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL)

The panel is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Follow the One Planet Summit Live: https://oneplanetsummit.fr/en/events-16/one-planet-polar-summit-284

Mininnguaq Kleist: Greenland in the New Arctic

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Mininnguaq Kleist, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Greenland, speak on Greenland in the New Arctic.

H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson: 10 Year Anniversary of the Arctic Circle Assembly

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland speak at the opening of the 10 year Anniversary of the Arctic Circle Assembly.

Heating And Cooling Cities Is the Next Energy Revolution: Geothermal Is the Answer

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a discussion on geothermal energy as the solution for the heating and cooling of cities.

The Speakers are:

H.E. Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarson, Minister of the Environment, Energy and Climate, Iceland; Chairman of Arctic Council 2019-2021
Haukur Harðarson, Chairman and Founder, Arctic Green Energy
Eiríkur Bragason, COO Arctic Green Energy
Charlotte Zhao, CFO Arctic Green Energy – Beijing

The panel is moderated by Sigurður Atli Jónsson, CEO, of Arctic Green Energy.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized by: Arctic Green Energy.

UK Arctic Science: Research, Infrastructure and Opportunities

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to science and research leaders discuss opportunities for UK contributions to Arctic research.

Opening remarks are provided by Ambassador Julia Longbottom of the British Embassy in Tokyo.

The Panelists are:

Henry Burgess, Head, UK Arctic Office, British Antarctic Survey
Kelly Hogan, British Antarctic Survey
Alix Rommel, University of St Andrews
Jeremy Wilkinson, British Antarctic Survey
Takashi Kikuchi, Director, Institute of Arctic Climate and Environment Research, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC)

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized by: the British Embassy in Tokyo.

Knowledge for Governance and Diplomacy: Expertise and Dialogue

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to leading academics discuss the role of expert knowledge in governance and diplomacy in the Arctic.

The speakers are:

Merje Kuus, Professor, University of British Columbia.
Yang Jian, Vice-President, Shanghai Institute for International Studies.
Heather Nicol, Professor, Trent University.
Lassi Heininen, Professor, The Arctic Yearbook.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized by: the UArctic Thematic Network on Geopolitics and Security, and the Arctic Yearbook.

The Cryosphere: Legitimizing the Links Between the Arctic and the Third Pole

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to leading researchers discuss the cryosphere as a link between the Arctic and the Third Pole.

The speakers are:

Kamrul Hossain, Research Professor, NIEM, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland
Fu-Kuo Liu, Professor & Director, Centre for Security Studies, National Chengchi University
Albert van Wijngaarden, Visiting Researcher, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland
Aileen Aseron Espiritu, Researcher & Network leader, The Arctic University of Norway

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized by: The Northern Institute for Environmental and Minority Law (NIEM), Arctic Centre; in cooperation with UArctic Chair in Arctic Legal Research & Education and UArctic Law Thematic Network.

Asian Collaboration with the Nordic Arctic

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a discussion on Asian-Nordic collaboration in the Arctic.

The speakers are:

Aileen Aseron Espiritu, Researcher & Network leader, The Arctic University of Norway
Jacob Isbosethsen, Head of Representation in Beijing, Government of Greenland
Kristín Ingvarsdóttir, Assistant Professor, University of Iceland
Marc Lanteigne, Associate Professor, UiT The Arctic University of Norway
Wrenn Yennie Lindgren, Senior Research Fellow, NUPI, The Norwegian Institute of International Affairs; Associate Research Fellow, UI, The Swedish Institute of International Affairs

The discussions are moderated by Juha Saunavaara, Associate Professor, Arctic Research Center, Hokkaido University, Japan.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized by: the University of Iceland

Japanese Project for Bridging Science to Society

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to leading academics discuss a Japanese research project for bridging science to society, called Project of Arctic Challenge for Sustainability II.

The speakers are:

Hiroyuki Enomoto, Professor, ArCS II Directions, National Institute of Polar Research
Yuka Oishi, Lecturer, Kobe University
Naomi Harada, Professor, Tokyo University
Fujio Ohnishi, Associate Professor, Arctic Research Center/Hokkaido University

Comments on the discussions are provided by:

Hajo Eicken, International Arctic Research Center/UAF
Paul Arthur Berkman, President, Science Diplomacy Center™; Senior Fellow, United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized by: the Arctic Challenge for Sustainability II project; NIPR; JAMESTEC; and Hokkaido University.

Arctic Geopolitics on Thinning Ice

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel on the future of Arctic geopolitics.

The Panelists are:

Miyase Christensen, Professor, Stockholm University, Sweden
Atsushi SUNAMI, President, Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Japan
Jian YANG, Vice-President, Shanghai Institute for International Studies, China
Lassi Heininen, Chair, GlobalArctic Mission Council; Professor Emeritus, University of Lapland, Finland

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan forum and was organized in association with The Arctic Circle Mission Council on the GlobalArctic

Arctic and Asian Food Connections: Breaking Down Barriers

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel on food in the Arctic and in Asia, and the cultural and economic connections between these two regions when it comes to food.

The Panelists are:
Per Theodor Tørrissen, Director, North Norwegian Competence Center Food
Johan Kvalheim, Director, Japan & Korea Norwegian Seafood Council
Hide SAKAGUCHI, President of the Ocean Policy Research Institute (OPRI), Executive Director of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Japan
Chef Saori ICHIHARA, former Executive Chef, Ichi Restaurant, Japan
Jens Simon Ulvoy, CEO Aqua Azuri

The panel is chaired by Mads Frederiksen, Executive Director, Arctic Economic Council.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized with The Arctic Economic Council and the North Norwegian Competence Center Food; in association with Bodø 2024 European Capital of Culture; and with partnership from the Norwegian Seafood council and Korea Maritime Institute.

The Future Vision of Greenlanders: Cohesion and Contrasts

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel on Greenland’s role in and perspective on addressing the challenges of the future.

The Panelists are:

Jacob S. Isbosethsen, Head of Representation in Beijing, Government of Greenland
Malik Peter Koch Hansen, Board Member of Nunanut Allanut Politikkeqarnermut Peqatigiiffik, The Greenland Foreign Policy Society
Qivioq Løvstøm, Assistant Professor, Ilisimatusarfik/University of Greenland; Chair, Human Rights Council of Greenland
Ulrik Pram Gad, Senior Researcher, Danish Institute for International Studies
Klaus Georg Hansen, Senior Analyst, Danish Institute for International Studies

The Panel is chaired by Minori Takahashi, Associate Professor, Hokkai-Gakuen University, Sapporo.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized in association with the Government of Greenland, Representation in Beijing; and the Danish Institute for International Studies.

The Himalaya Third Pole Glaciers: Consequences for Weather and Seasons in Japan

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel on the glaciers of the Third Pole region, and the consequences of their melting for Japan.

The Panelists are:

Pema GYAMTSHO, Director General, ICIMOD
Rajesh Bahadur THAPA, Senior Remote Sensing and Geoinformation Specialist, ICIMOD
Hide SAKAGUCHI, President of the Ocean Policy Research Institute (OPRI), Executive Director of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Japan

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum

The Future of Arctic Science Collaboration

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel on Arctic science collaboration.

The Panelists are:

Larry Hinzman, Executive Director, Interagency Arctic Research Policy Committee; Professor, University of Alaska Fairbanks; Former President, of the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC), USA
Katarina Gårdfeldt, Director General, Swedish Polar Research Secretariat
Ágúst Hjörtur Ingþórsson, Director General, Icelandic Centre for Research
Hiroyuki ENOMOTO, Vice Director-General, National Institute for Polar Research, Japan
Hyoung Chul SHIN, Vice President, Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI)
Jian YANG, Vice-President, Shanghai Institute for International Studies, China

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is chaired by Henry Burgess, Head of the UK Arctic Office, British Antarctic Survey; and President of the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC), United Kingdom.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum.

Contributions of Observer States to the Future of the Arctic Council

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel on the interests and contributions of Observer States of the Arctic Council.

The Panelists are:

Ambassador Keizo TAKEWAKA, Ambassador for International Economic Affairs and Arctic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tokyo
Ambassador Youngki HONG, Republic of Korea Arctic Ambassador, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Evan T. BLOOM, Senior Fellow, the Wilson Center Polar Institute; Former Senior U.S. Diplomat in Charge of Polar Affairs
Ambassador Feng GAO, Special Representative for Arctic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China
Ambassador Sam TAN, Special Envoy for Arctic Affairs of Singapore, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore
Rear Admiral Monty KHANNA (Retd), Joint Secretary, of the Government of India, New Delhi

The Panel is chaired by Evan T. Bloom, Senior Fellow, at the Wilson Center Polar Institute; former Senior U.S. Diplomat in charge of Polar Affairs.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized in association with the Wilson Center Polar Institute.

Developing the Arctic Econonmy

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel on economic opportunities in the Arctic, with emphasis on the Asian perspective.

The Panelists are:

Mead Treadwell, Chair, US Arctic Research Commission, in 2006-2010; Lt. Governor of Alaska, 2010-2014; Chairman/CEO, Qilak LNG; Board Member, Pt Capital.
Natsuhiko OTSUKA, Professor, Arctic Research Center, Hokkaido University, Japan
Shoko NIREKI, Chairman, Icelandic Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ICCJ)

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is chaired by Mads Frederiksen, Executive Director of the Arctic Economic Council.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum.

Indigenous Knowledge in a Melting Arctic

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we hear from experts on the role of Indigenous knowledge, in the discussions on climate change in the Arctic.

The Panelists are:

Qivioq Løvstrøm, Assistant Professor of Culture and Social History, Ilisimatusarfik/University of Greenland
Mia OTOKIAK, Technical Advisor, at the Nunavut Impact Review Board, in Canada.

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is chaired by the Honorable Aaja Chemnitz, Member of the Danish Parliament, Inuit Ataqatigiit; and the Chair of Arctic Parliamentarians.

Global Consequences of Melting Arctic Ice

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a discussion on how the melting Arctic ice has consequences for the rest of the world.

Panelists in this session are:

H.E. Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarson, Minister of the Environment, Energy and Climate, Iceland; Chairman of the Arctic Council 2019-2021.
Hiroyuki ENOMOTO, Vice Director-General, National Institute for Polar Research, Japan

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is chaired by Volker Rachold, Head of the German Arctic Office, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Center for Polar and Marine Research, Germany.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum.

Dialogue on the Arctic: Japan, China, Korea

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a dialogue between the Arctic Ambassadors of Japan, China and Korea as they discuss their countries role in the Arctic.

They are:

Ambassador Keizo Takewaka, Ambassador for International Economic Affairs and Arctic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan
Ambassador Feng Gao, Special Representative for Arctic Affairs of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, People's Republic of China
Ambassador Youngki Hong, Arctic Ambassador, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea

The Panel includes a Q&A with the audience moderated by Hide Sakaguchi, President of the Ocean Policy Research Institute (OPRI), Executive Director of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Japan and H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman Arctic Circle; President of Iceland 1996-2016

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Japan Forum and was organized by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.

A video recording from the session may be found here

Collaboration Across Borders and Boundaries

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to five experts discuss collaboration accross borders and boundaries.

The Scientists are:

Ashok Kumar Byanju Shrestha, Mayor of Dhulikhel, Nepal
Madleline Redfern, COO, CanArctic Inuit Networks; Northern Director Arctic360, Iqaluit Nunavut, Canada
Crawford Patkotak, Chairman of the Board, Arctic Regional Slope Corporation, United States
David W. Lamm, Deputy Director, Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies, United States
Mead Treadwell, Chair of US Arctic Research Commission, 2006-2010; Lt. Governor of Alaska, 2010-2014; Chairman/CEO of Qilak LNG; Board Member, Pt Capital

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience moderated by Omair Ahmad, Managing Editor for South Asia, The Third Pole, India and Kathryn Friedman, North American Arctic Policy Advisor, Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security

Studies, United States

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum and was organized by the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies.

Arctic Green Energy – Third Pole Green Energy

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four experts discuss Green Energy in the Arctic and in the Himalaya Third Pole Region.

The Scientists are:

Haukur Harðarson, Chairman and Founder, Arctic Green Energy
Adnan Amin, CEO Emirates Climate Conference - COP28 UAE; Director-General Emeritus, International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
Andrew Hall, Chairman, Saxjo Limited; Executive Officer, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, 2017; Member of the Advisory Committee on Energy, ADSW
Benedikt Höskuldsson, Special Envoy for Climate and Permanent Representative of Iceland to IRENA

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience moderated by Nawal Al Hosany, Permanent Representative of the UAE to IRENA.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum.

Science Diplomacy

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to three experts discuss various aspects of Science Diplomacy in the Arctic and in the Himalaya Third Pole Region.

The Experts are:

Eyjólfur Guðmundsson, Rector, University of Akureyri, Iceland
Marc Lanteigne, Associate Professor, UiT The Arctic University of Norway
Rasmus Gjedssø Bertelsen, Nansen Professor, UiT The Arctic University of Norway; University of Akureyri, Iceland

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience moderated by Rasmus Gjedssø Bertelsen.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum.

The Study of Ice: Arctic Science – Third Pole Science

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we hear from three scientists discussing the Study of Ice in the Arctic and in the Third Pole – Himalaya Region.

The Scientists are:

Þorsteinn Þorsteinsson, Glaciologist, Icelandic Meteorological Office
Eklabya Sharma, Senior Fellow-Policy Advisor, ICIMOD; Senior Advisor and Distinguished Fellow, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), India
Pema Gyamtsho, Director General, International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience moderated by Dagfinnur Sveinbjörnsson, Arctic Circle Emissary on the Third Pole, Climate and the Oceans.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum.

The Evolution of Arctic Cooperation: Lessons from the Arctic Circle and other venues

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we hear from three experts discussing the Evolution of Arctic Cooperation based on lessons learned from the Arctic Circle and other venues.

The Experts are:

H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman Arctic Circle; President of Iceland 1996-2016
Rasmus Gjedssø Bertelsen, Nansen Professor, UiT The Arctic University of Norway; University of Akureyri, Iceland
Hide Sakaguchi, President of the Ocean Policy Research Institute (OPRI), Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF), Japan
Pema Gyamtsho, Director General, International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)
Rupert Robinson, Managing Partner, Seven Glaciers

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience moderated by Ganesh Paudel, Joint Secretary and Deputy Director General, Department of Forests and Soil Conservation, Ministry of Forests and Environment, Nepal

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum.

The Evolution of Arctic Cooperation: Lessons from the Arctic Council

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we hear from three experts discussing the Evolution of Arctic Cooperation based on lessons learned from the Arctic Council.

The Experts are:

Ambassador Einar Gunnarsson, Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials, 2019-2021; Permanent Representative of Iceland in Geneva
Madeline Redfern, COO, CanArctic Inuit Networks; Northern Director Arctic360, Iqaluit Nunavut, Canada
Mead Treadwell, Chair of US Arctic Research Commission, 2006-2010; Lt. Governor of Alaska, 2010-2014; Chairman/CEO of Qilak LNG; Board Member, Pt Capital

The Panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience moderated by Kathryn Friedman, North American Arctic Policy Advisor, Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies, United States.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum.

The Himalayas and the Preservation of the Third Pole

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four experts discuss the Himalayas and the Preservation of the Third Pole.

The Panelists are:

Soumitra Das, Chairman and Executive Director, Healthy Climate Initiative, United States
Rituraj Phukan, Founder, Indigenous People's Climate Justice Forum; National Coordinator for Biodiversity, the Climate Reality Project, India; Member, IUCN
Subarna Bhattacharyya, Co-Founder and CEO of Climformatics, United States

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum and was organized by The Healthy Climate Initiative, USA.

Helsinki Security Forum

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we learn about the Helsinki Security Forum. First, a speech from H.E. Þórdís Kolbrún R. Gylfadóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Iceland, followed by a discussion between:

Samu Paukkunen, Deputy Director and Director of Administration, Finnish Institute of InternationalAffairs
Urmas Paet, Member of the European Parliament; Chair, EU Parliament Arctic Friendship Group

The Panel is chaired by Tero Vauraste, Senior BD Advisor ICEYE, Global Fellow Woodrow Wilson Center. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Arctic Investment Partnerships – Opportunities: Sustainable Progress and Trade

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four experts discuss Arctic Investment Partnerships and opportunities in sustainable progress and trade. First a keynote from H.E. Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, United Arab Emirates followed by panel discussions.

The Panelists are:

Benedikt Gíslason, CEO Arion Bank, Iceland
Hugh Short, Co-Founder, Chairman/CEO Pt Capital, Alaska
H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman Arctic Circle; President of Iceland 1996-2016

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum.

Finding Shackleton’s Endurance: Sea Ice & Floe Navigation

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we hear how earth observation data was used to find Earnest Shackleton‘s Endurance, during the Endurance22 Expedition. An introduction from Shay Strong, VP Analytics, ISEYE is followed by a panel discussion.

The Panelists are:

Shay Strong, VP Analytics, ICEYE
Lasse Rabenstein, Co-Founder, Drift+Noise
Captain David (Duke) Snider, CEO and Principal Consultant, Martech Polar Consulting

The Panel is chaired by Tero Vauraste, Senior BD Advisor ICEYE, Global Fellow Woodrow Wilson Center. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The Hindu Kush Himalaya Report and Scientific Perspectives from Himalayan Countries

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development discuss the role of ICIMOD and the Hindu Kush Himalaya Report. Following his speech representatives from three Himalayan Countries share Scientific Perspectives from their countries.

They are:

Ganesh Paudel, Joint Secretary and Deputy Director General, Department of Forests and Soil Conservation, Ministry of Forests and Environment, Nepal
Ghulam Muhammad, HKH High-Level Task Force Member; Chairman, the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council
Huzur Ali, HKH High-Level Task Force Member; Joint Secretary, Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs, Bangladesh

The Panel is chaired by by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum.

Canada's North and the Future of the Arctic

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Honorable Caroline Cochrane, Premier of the Northwest Territories, Canada discuss the changes in Canada‘s Arctic. The Premier‘s speech is followed by a youth panel discussing the future of Canada‘s Arctic.

The Youth Panelists are:

Alyssa Carpenter, Director, Western Arctic Youth Collective, Canada
Jacey Firth-Hagen, Project Coordinator, Western Arctic Youth Collective, Canada
Danielle Wendehorst, Board Secretary, Arctic Youth Network

The Panel is chaired by H.E. Whit Fraser, Author, Former Journalist; Founding Chair, Canadian Polar Commission; and Former Executive Director, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum Opening Session

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to three speeches from the Opening Session of the Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum in January 2023.

H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland
H.E. Mariam Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, UAE
H.E. Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarsson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Iceland and Chairman of the Arctic Council from 2019-2021.

Harvard's Arctic Initiative

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Douglas Elmendorf, Dean, Harvard Kennedy School; Don K. Price Professor of Public Policy discuss Harvard‘s Arctic Initiative.

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Flying Zero Carbon Global Aviation

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to five experts discuss Flying Zero Carbon Global Aviation.

The experts are:
Bogi Nils Bogason, CEO Icelandair
Sandra Karlsen, European GoGreen Head, DHL Global Forwarding
Jonathan Wood, Vice President Renewable Aviation, Neste
Kjartan Briem, CEO Isavia ANS
Lionel Cousseins, Head of ZEROe Market and Airlines, Airbus

The Panel is chaired by Christoph Wolff, CEO, Smart Freight Centre, Honorary Professor Economics & Social Sciences, University of Cologne; Special Advisor Climate Change, Institutional Investor Roundtable, Montreal. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

UK Interests in the Arctic

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Lord Offord of Garvel, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Scotland and Nick Bridge, UK Foreign Secretary’s Special Representative for Climate Change speak on UK's interests in the Arctic. Following their speeches is a Q&A with the Audience.

The Session is chaired by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Is the Arctic a Hub for Green Hydrogen?

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four experts discussing the rising demand for green hydrogen and the role of heavy industries

The experts are:

Julie Shuttleworth, Leader of Global Growth, Fortescue Future Industries
Hörður Arnarson, CEO The National Power Company of Iceland
Johannah Christensen, CEO Global Maritime Forum
Jonas Moberg, CEO GH2 – The Green Hydrogen Standard

Urgent Messages from Global Science Leaders

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a Urgent Messages from Global Science Leaders and their dialogue with the audience at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland

The Science Leaders are:

Antje Boetius, Director, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Germany
Dame Jane Francis, Director, British Antarctic Survey, United Kingdom
Roberta Marinelli, Director, Office of Polar Programs, National Science Foundation, United States

The Session is chaired by Henry Burgess, President, International Arctic Science Committee (IASC).

H.E. Dr. Sultan Al Jaber – Emerates Climate Conference, COP28

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Dr. SULTAN AL JABER, President, Emirates Climate Conference - COP28, speak on THE VISION FOR THE EMIRATES CLIMATE CONFERENCE - COP28 taking place in the United Arab Emirates in November 2023. H.E. Dr. Al Jaber also serves as Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology as well as Special Envoy for Climate Change for the United Arab Emerates.

This event originally took place at the 2023 Arctic Circle Abu Dhabi Forum that was part of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

The Arctic Circle Japan Forum: pre-forum discussions

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Atsushi Sunami, President, Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Japan and Keizo Takewaka, Ambassador in Charge of Arctic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, introduce and discuss the upcoming Arctic Circle Japan Forum taking place in Tokyo on the March 4th-6th, 2023.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Global Renewable Energy Transformation: Urban Solutions for The Climate

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel of experts discuss one of the most urgent challenges of climate change; the heating and cooling of cities.

The panelists are:

H.E. Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarsson, Icelandic Minister of the Environment, Energy and Climate, Iceland
Haukur Harðarson, Chairman, Arctic Green Energy
Erik Knive, CEO Aker Horizons

The New Arctic Policy of India

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Rear Admiral (Retd.) Monty Khanna, Assistant Military Advisor, National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), India, and M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, India, introduce and discuss the New Arctic Policy of India.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

China and the Arctic: Special Representative for Arctic Affairs, Gao Feng

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Gao Feng, Special Representative for Arctic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China discuss China and the Arctic after the gloabal pandemic.

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Arctic: The View from Asia

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel of representatives from China, Japan, India and the Republic of Korea discuss the Arctic from the viewpoint of Asia.

The representatives are:

Gao Feng, Special Representative for Arctic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China
Keizo Takewaka, Ambassador in Charge of Arctic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
M. Ravichandran, General Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, India
Youngki Hong, Ambassador for Polar Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea

The Session is moderated by Marie-Anne Coninsx, Former EU Ambassador for the Arctic.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The New Borgen TV Series on Netflix: Greenland's Perspective

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel on the new Netflix series Borgen, taking place in Greenland.

The panel members are:

Svend Hardenberg, playing Hans Eliassen, Greenlandic Minister of Foreign Affairs and Natural Resources in the Netflix Series.
Per Fly, Director of Netflix‘s Borgen
A Surprise Guest will join the panel half way through the Session.

The panel is chaired by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Bringing Arctic Food to the Table: Arctic Economic Council's Food Event

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Mads Frederiksen Director of the Arctic Economic Council interviewing three Arctic Chefs discussing Arctic Food and the challenges of introducing Arctic Food to the world.

The three Chefs are:
Sheila Flaherty, Chef and Entrepreneur, Nunavut, Canada
Rúnar Pierre Heriveaux, Head Chef, ÓX Restaurant, Iceland
Robert Kinneen, Tlingit, Outreach Director, NATIFS- North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems, USA

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland and was a part of a larger Food Event taking place at the Assembly, hosted by the Arctic Economic Council.

View more of the Food Festival on youtube: https://youtu.be/8uVcMivYYjs

Encouraging Bold Climate Action: The Arctic Basecamp Model

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel hosted by Arctic Basecamp on Encouraging Bold Climate Action.

The panelists are:

Gail Whiteman, Founder, of Arctic Basecamp; and Professor of Sustainability, at the University of Exeter's Business School
Gill Einhorn, Head, of Innovation and Transformation, at the Centre for Nature and Climate, at the World Economic Forum
Jan-Gunnar Winther, Director of the Center for the Ocean and the Arctic and Specialist Director at the Norwegian Polar Institute

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Archbishop Musa Filipus speaks on Christianity and Climate Change

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Musa Filipus, Archbishop of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria, LCCN; President, Lutheran World Federation (LWF) discuss Christianity and Climate Change.

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Gender Equality and Diversity in Arctic Leadership

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a panel of leaders from Arctic Governments discuss Gender Equality and Diversity in Arctic Leadership.

The leaders are:

H.E. Rt Hon. Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada
H.E. Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Prime Minister of Iceland
H.E. Naaja H. Nathanielsen, Minister of Finance and Gender Equality, Government of Greeenland

The Session is moderated by Patricia Johnson Castle, Youth Representative, Jane Glassco Northern Fellows.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Scottish involvement in the Arctic for the past 6 years: H.E. Angus Robertson, External Affairs Secretary

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen H.E. Angus Robertson, External Affairs Secretary, Scottish Government discusses how Scotland has strengthened their Arctic involvement in the past 6 years.

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

How does the Arctic Affect Singapore? H.E. Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State, Singapore

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen H.E. Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of National Development, Singapore, discuss how changes in the Arctic affects Singapore and how Singapore is involved in the Arctic.

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The New Arctic Policy of the Faroe Islands

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen H.E. Jenis av Rana, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Culture, introduce the new Arctic Policy of the Faroe Islands.

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The U.S. Arctic Vision

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Derek Chollet, Counselor of the U.S. Department of State and Lisa Murkowski, United States Senator for Alaska introduce the new Arctic Strategy of the United States. Following the introduction experts from across the U.S. Government will discuss the strategy in further detail and taking questions from the audience.

The experts are:

Ambassador David Balton, Executive Director, Arctic Executive Steering Committee, Office of Science and Technology Policy, Executive Office of the President, United States
Mike Sfraga, Chair, U.S. Arctic Research Commission
Maxine Burkett, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Oceans, Fisheries and Polar Affairs, Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, U.S. State Department
Randy “Church” Kee, Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies, United States

The Q&A section is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

EU Arctic Policy and New Dynamics in the Arctic

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen H.E. Joseph Borell, EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy and Charlina Vitcheva, Director-General, Directorate General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries at the European Commission introduce the EU Arctic Policy.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

H.E. Múte B. Egede, Prime Minister of Greenland speaks on Greenland at the World Stage

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Múte B. Egede, Prime Minister of Greenland speak off the role of Greenland on the world stage. The speech is followed by a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

H.R.H. Haakon, Crown Prince of Norway Speaks on the Interconnectedness of the Arctic

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000

You‘re listening to the Arctic Circle Podcast. In this episode we listen to H.R.H. Haakon, the Crown Prince of Norway address the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

H.E. Alar Karis, President of Estonia speaks on Climate Change, Estonia and Hard Security

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Alar Karis, President of Estonia speak on the escalation of climate change, the role of Estonia in the Arctic and how hard security is affecting region. The speech is followed by a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Sara Olsvig International Chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Council

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Sara Olsvig, International Chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Council speak on the importance of Indigenous involvement in Arctic discussion and decision-making. The speech is followed by a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Inuit Strength and Peace - Pertujaassuseq Eqqisseqatigiinnerlu

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to leaders of the Inuit Circumpolar Council discuss the mandate of Inuit Circumpolar Council for the next 4 years including the importance of Indigenous participation in Arctic Governance.

The five leaders are:

· Sara Olsvig, International Chair, Inuit Circumpolar Council

· Lisa Koperqualuk, President of ICC Canada

· Kuupik V. Kleist, President of ICC Greenland

· Dalee Sambo Dorough, Former International Chair of ICC

· Doreen Fogg-Leavitt, Inupiat Community of the Arctic Slope, ICC Alaska Alternate Board Member

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is moderated by Mininnguaq Kleist, Head, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Business and Trade, Government of Greenland.

This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

H.E. Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada address the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly. The Governor General‘s speech is followed by a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Admiral Rob Bauer: Nato and the Arctic

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 15:00:00 +0000

You‘re listening to the Arctic Circle Podcast. In this episode we listen to Admiral Rob Bauer, Chair of the Military Committee, NATO, speak on NATO‘s security interests in the Arctic. The Admiral‘s speech is followed by a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2022 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The Arctic and Third Pole - Himalaya

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Dagfinnur Sveinbjörnsson, Arctic Circle Emissary on the Third Pole, Climate and the Oceans speak on the Third Pole – Himalaya region, the Arctic Model of collaboration and the Arctic Circle-United Arab Emirates Third Pole Process.

Connecting the Dots: Conservation of Arctic Marine Life

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four distinguished experts exchange views on and discuss cooperation opportunities linked to Arctic Marine Conservation efforts and ArcNet – an Arctic Ocean Network of Priority Areas for Conservation.

The experts are:

Martin Sommerkorn, Head of Conservation WWF Arctic Programme
Lauren Devine, Director, Ecosystem Conservation Office at Aleut Community of St. Paul Island
Barnie Aggark, Senior Executive Director from Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut, Canada
Lauren Wenzel, Director, National Marine Protected Areas Center at the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

With John Morrison, Director of Conservation Planning and Measures at WWF-US serving as moderator.

The dialogue originally took place as an Arctic Circle Webcast Session. The Session was organised by WWF and was open for questions from the global audience.

Maritime Transportation and Arctic Communities

Wed, 04 May 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Thomas Mack, from the Aleut Corporation and Kirsti Merthi, from the Municipality of Tromsø discuss Maritime Transportation and Arctic Communities.

The discussion is moderated by Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Director of the Arctic Economic Council.

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland as part of the Arctic Economic Council‘s Nordic Talks Series.

Investment in the Arctic

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to two former Chairs of the Arctic Economic Council, Tara Sweeney, Principle and CEO of Tack-71 Strategies and Heiðar Guðjónsson, CEO of Sýn hf and Vice-Chair of the AEC, discuss Investment in the Arctic.

The discussion is moderated by Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Director of the Arctic Economic Council.

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland as part of the Arctic Economic Council‘s Nordic Talks Series.

Arctic Infrastructure and Investments

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Stein Gunnar Bondevik, Executive Director of Public Affairs at Troms Kraft in Norway and Jack Durkee, Manager, Arctic Infrastructure Inventory at the Wilson Center‘s Polar Institute, discuss Arctic Infrastructure and Investments.

The discussion is moderated by Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Director of the Arctic Economic Council.

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland as part of the Arctic Economic Council‘s Nordic Talks Series.

International Cooperation to Increase Arctic Security

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to members of the Arctic Circle Mission Council on Global Arctic, discuss the role of international, functional cooperation as means to increase security of the Arctic region.

The discussants are:

Prof. Lassi Heininen, Chair of the GlobalArctic Mission Council and Professor Emeritus at the University of Lapland
Dr. Heather Exner-Pirot, Managing Editor of Arctic Yearbook and member of the GlobalArctic Mission Council.

The dialogue originally took place as the first Arctic Circle Webcast Session in April 2022 and was open for questions from the global audience.

Faroe Islands in the New Arctic

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 15:00:00 +0000

You‘re listening to the Arctic Circle Podcast. In this episode we listen to H.E. Bárður á Steig Nielsen, Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands discuss the Faroe Islands in the new Arctic.

The Prime Minister‘s speech is followed by a Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Korea in the Arctic

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Jongmoon Choi, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea discuss Korea in the Arctic.

The Vice-Foreign Minister‘s speech is followed by a Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The Kingdom of Denmark in the Arctic

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Jeppe Kofod, Denmark‘s Minister for Foreign Affairs discuss the Kingdom of Denmark in the Arctic.

The Foreign Minister‘s speech is followed by a Q&A with the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The Success of the 3rd Arctic Science Ministerial

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Lilja Alfreðsdóttir, Iceland‘s Minister for Education, Science and Culture, and H.E. Ryotaro Suzuki, Ambassador of Japan to Iceland discuss the results from the 3rd Arctic Science Ministerial held in May 2021 in Tokyo, Japan, co-hosted by the two respective countries

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland and was organized in collaboration with the Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science and Culture and the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Sciences and Technology.

Arctic Cities Crisis Management: Lessons from Covid-19

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to three prominent experts discuss how Cities have dealt with the Covid-19 pandemic and related complications.

The three experts are:

Anders Josefsson, Deputy Mayor, City of Luleå, Sweden
Jaakko Simonen, Associate Professor, Oulu Business School, in Finland; and Member of Arctic 5 -Collaboration
Jennifer Spence, Executive Secretary of the Arctic Council’s Sustainable Development Working Group

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is moderated by Ásthildur Sturludóttir, Mayor, Municipality of Akureyri, Iceland.

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland and was organized in collaboration with the Arctic Mayors Forum.

The Arctic Public Square in Washington D.C.

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to five distinguished experts discuss the Arctic Public Square in Washington D.C.

The five experts are:

Lisa Murkowski, United States Senator from Alaska
Sheldon Whitehouse, United States Senator from Rhode Island
Mark Green, President, Director and CEO of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars
Mike Sfraga, the new Chair of the United States Arctic Research Commission (USARC)
Heiðar Guðjónsson, CEO, Sýn; Vice-chairman, Arctic Economic Council

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the audience and is moderated by Geir H. Haarde, Iceland’s Ambassador to the United States (2015–2019); Prime Minister of Iceland (2006-2009); Foreign Minister of Iceland (2005-2006).

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavik, Iceland and was organized in collaboration with the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.

Blue Economy: Solutions to the Challenges in our Food System

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 03:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four distinguished experts discuss concrete examples of actions within the Blue Economy, both in the private and public sector and how the Blue Economy affects the Arctic Region.

Speakers in this dialogue are:

Bryndís Björnsdóttir, Ph.D. Head of Industry Solutions, Matis, Iceland,
Leslie Canavera, CEO, PolArctic, Alaska US
Patrick Arnold, Co-Founder & CEO, New England Ocean Cluster, Maine, USA
Rupert Howes, CEO, of the Marine Stewardship Council

Moderated by Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Director Arctic Economic Council

The dialogue is followed by a Q&A with the Audience.

This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland and was organized in collaboration with the Arctic Economic Council.

Emerging Arctic Security Concerns - Greenland and Iceland

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four distinguished experts discuss the Emerging Arctic Security Concerns that Greenland and Iceland are facing with the growing international attention in the Arctic. The dialogue between Aaja Chemnitz Larsen, Member of the Danish Parliament, Sara Olsvig, Former Vice Premier, Minister in the Government of Greenland and current Member of the Constitutional Commission of Greenland, Marc Lanteigne, Associate Professor, Political Science Department at the Arctic University of Norway and Egill Níelsson, senior Advisor at The Icelandic Center for Research is moderated by Halla Hrund Logadóttir, Director General, National Energy Authority, Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland and was organized in collaboration with the Centre for Arctic Studies at the University of Iceland.

Why it is Important that Indigenous Peoples are Part of the Decision-Making Process

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a dialogue between five esteemed representatives of Indigenous Peoples sheding light on why it is important that Indigenous Peoples are part of any solution or decision making process. The dialogue between Anders Oskal, Secretary General, World Reindeer Herders, Executive Director, International Center for Reindeer Husbandry, Mandy Bayha, Director, Dene Ts’ı̨ lı̨ Dahk’ǝ́ (Department for Language, Culture, & Spirituality), Great Bear Lake, Canada, Catharyn Andersen, Vice-President, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Te Aomihia, Fellow, 2021 Sue Taei Ocean Fellowship is moderated by Gunn-Britt Retter, Head of Unit, Sami Council. Concluding remarks are made by Peter Seligman, Chairman, Conservation International, Chairman and Founder of Nia Tero.

The Future of Arctic Finance

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four experts discuss the Future of Arctic Finance. The dialogue between H.E. Bjarni Benediktsson, Icelandic Minister for Finance, Scott Minerd, Chief Investment Officer, Guggenheim Partners, Hugh Short, Co-Founder and CEO Pt CAPITAL and Benedikt Gíslason, CEO, ARION Bank is moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland and was organised in collaboration with Guggenheim Partners, Pt Capital and ARION Bank.

Arctic Youth Leaders speak about the Future of the Arctic

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to five leaders of Youth in the Arctic discuss the future of the Arctic. The panel consists of Eben Hopson, North Slope Liaison, Ukpeaġvik, Iñupiat Corporation, Daria Makhotina, Chairperson, Barents Regional Youth Council, Enni Similä, Project Worker, The Saami Council, Pétur Halldórsson, Founder, Arctic Youth Network and Victoria Qutuuq Buschman, Postdoctoral Researcher, International Arctic Research Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks; Greenland Institute of Natural Resources. The panel discussion is followed by a Q&A from the audience. The dialogue was moderated by Jack Durkee, Program Associate, Wilson Center‘s Polar Institute. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland and was organzed in collaboration with the Polar Institute, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.

Third Pole - Himalaya: challenges, collaboration and the Arctic Model

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to Director General of ICIMOD Dr. Pema Gyamtsho and Coordinating Lead Author of the Hindu Kush Himalaya Assessment Dr. Eklabya Sharma discuss the challenges facing the region and efforts to increase collaboration in recent years. The Dialogue is moderated by Mr. Dagfinnur Sveinbjörnsson, Arctic Circle Emissary on the Third Pole, Climate and the Oceans. This event originally took place on December 16th 2021 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform, Arctic Circle VIRTUAL.

The Russian Chairmanship of the Arctic Council

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to statements on the Russian Chairmanship of the Arctic Council, from H.E. Valery Falkov, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation and H.E. Nicolay Korchunov, Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials under the Russian Chairmanship of the Arctic Council. Following the statements will be a dialogue with Anton Vasiliev, Vice-President of the Russian Association of Polar Explorers, Russia‘s Former Senior Arctic Official and Russia‘s former Ambassador to Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland. The dialogue was moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

The Success of the Icelandic Chairmanship of the Arctic Council

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we learn about the success of the Icelandic Chairmanship of the Arctic Council in 2019-2021, from H.E. Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarsson, Icelandic Minister for Foreign Affairs and Mr. Einar Gunnarsson, former Chair of the Arctic Senior Officials. Following their speeches is a Q&A moderated by H.E. Marie-Anne Coninsx, Former EU Ambassador at large for the Arctic. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The Volcano is Erupting

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four experts discuss the Volcanic Eruption of Fagradalsfjall and how research on seismic activity connected the Arctic and Space. First is a keynote from Shay Strong, VP Analytics, Iceye, then speeches from Freysteinn Sigmundsson, Head, Faculty of Earth Sciences, Nordic Volcanological Center, University of Iceland, Vincent Drouin, Geophysicist, Icelandic MET office and Daniel Leeb, Founding Partner and Executive Mission Director, Iceland Space Agency followed by a Q&A from the audience. The dialogue was moderated by Tero Vauraste, Senior Advisor and Regional Director of Iceye, Global Fellow Woodrow Wilson Center. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland and was organzed in collaboration with Iceye.

The Arctic Goes to Hollywood and Cannes

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to three experts discuss the growing Arctic Film Sector and it‘s place in the film industry. The dialogue between Director and producer Baltasar Kormákur, Anne Lajla Utsi, CEO, International Sámi Film Institute and Laufey Guðjónsdóttir, Director of the Icelandic Film Centre is moderated by Liisa Holmberg, Film Commissioner, International Sámi Film Insitute. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Olivier Poivre d'Arvor on the Arctic Strategy of France

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Olivier Poivre d‘Arvor, French Ambassador for Polar and Maritime Issues, discuss the Arctic Strategy of France. The Ambassador‘s speech is followed by a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Michael Mann, EU‘s Special Envoy for Arctic Matters. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The New American Arctic Strategy

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to four distinguished experts discuss the New American Arctic Strategy: U.S. Senator from Alaska, Lisa Murkowski, Mr. David Balton, the new Executive Director of the Arctic Execuituve Steering Committee at the White House, Mr. Mike Sfraga, the new Chair of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission (USARC) and Mr. Jim Dehart, U.S. Coordinator for the Arctic Region. The dialogue includes a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

The New EU Arctic Strategy

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Virginijus Sinkevičius, EU Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries introduce the new EU Arctic Strategy. The Commissioner‘s speech is followed by a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

H.E. Naaja Nathanielsen's speech on the policies of the New Government of Greenland

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Naaja Nathanielsen, Greenlandic Minister for Housing, Infrastructure, Justice, Minerals and Gender Equality speak on the policies of the New Government of Greenland. The Minister‘s speech is followed by a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse on USA and Climate Challenge

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to U. S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse from Rhode Island, discuss measures being taken in Washington D.C regarding Climate Change. The Senator‘s speech is followed by a Q&A with the audience. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland. The Q&A was moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

Science Spotlight: MOSAiC - IPCC - COP26

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to a dialogue between three distinguished experts discuss MOSAiC, the largest Arctic Expedition in History and how Science is used to set benchmarks for our Future. The dialogue between Dr. Markus Rex, Expedition Leader of MOSAiC and Dr. Halldór Þorsteinsson, President, Climate Council of Iceland is moderated by Dr. Antje Boetius, Director of the Alfred Wegener Institute. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.

H.E. Nicola Sturgeon's speech on the importance of COP26

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland discuss Scotland‘s engagements in Arctic Cooperation and the importance of COP26 taking place in Glasgow. The First Minister‘s speech is followed by a Q&A with the audience. This event originally took place at the 2021 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland. The Q&A was moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

Dr. Stefan Rahmstorf on the Loss of the Greenland Icesheet

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to the world renown scientist Dr. Stephan Rahmstorf, Professor of Physics of the Oceans at the University of Potsdam discuss Arctic Tipping Points and how the loss of the Greenland Icesheet will effect the rest of the world. Dr. Rahmshorf‘s speech originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly as a part of a Session on Arctic Tipping Points. The full Session is available in the Arctic Circle Podcast Library.

Greenland in the Arctic: Pele Broberg, Greenland's Minister for Foreign Affairs

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

This episode marks the launch of a new Arctic Circle Mission Council on Greenland in the Arctic. In this episode Greenland‘s new Minister for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Pele Broberg, discusses Greenland‘s Foreign Policy and answers questions from the audience. The dialogue originally to place on June 7th 2021 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform, Arctic Circle VIRTUAL. The event was moderated by the co-chairs of the new Mission Council: Össur Skarphéðinsson, former Foreign Minister of Iceland and Sara Olsvig former Vice Premier of Greenland and Minister for Social Affairs, Families, Gender Equality and Justice.

Connecting the Arctic: Data Cables as Game Changers

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode we hear from Dag Kjetil Hansen, CEO of Bredbåndsfylket Ltd in Norway and Jukka-Pekka Joensuu, Attorney-at-law, Partner, Eversheds Sutherland discussing how Data Cables can be used as game changers when connecting the Arctic. The Session was moderated by Heiðar Guðjónsson, Chair, Arctic Economic Council. The Session originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly and was co-organized by the Arctic Economic Council.

The Future of Arctic Science: the Role of Japan and USA: Prelude to the Japan Forum II

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

This episode contains the second of two sessions of the Arctic Circle VIRTUAL Prelude to the Japan Forum held on May 7th 2021 in conjunction with the third Arctic Science Ministerial meeting in Japan. In the dialogue you will hear keynotes and discussions on the Role of Japan and USA in the Future of Arctic Science, from H.E. Lilja Alfreðsdóttir, Iceland‘s Minister of Science, Education and Culture, Mr. Kei Koizumi, Acting Director and Chief of Staff, Office of Science and Technology Policy, Executive Office of the President, USA, Dr. Larry Hinzman, Assistant Director for Polar Sciences, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy; Professor, University of Alaska Fairbanks and Dr. Atsushi Sunami, President of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.

The Role of Japan in Arctic Cooperation: Prelude to the Japan Forum I

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

This episode contains the first of two sessions of the Arctic Circle VIRTUAL Prelude to the Japan Forum held on May 7th 2021 in conjunction with the third Arctic Science Ministerial meeting in Japan. In the dialogue you will hear keynotes and discussions on the role of Japan in Arctic Cooperation, from H.E. Yoko Kamikawa, Chief Secretary, Parliamentary League of Arctic Frontier Study and Japan‘s Minister of Justice, H.E. Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland and Dr. Atsushi Sunami, President of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.

Sweden's New Arctic Policy

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode we learn more about Sweden‘s New Arctic Policy and it‘s geopolitical implications. The dialogue originally took place on November 16th 2020 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform, Arctic Circle VIRTUAL. In this event Sweden‘s Foreign Minister, Ann Linde discusses the groundbreaking Arctic Policy and answers questions from the audience. The event was moderated by Össur Skarphéðinsson, former Foreign Minister of Iceland.

Arctic Tipping Points

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode we learn about Arctic Tipping Points from three esteemed experts in the field: Dr. Stephan Rahmstorf, Professor of Physics of the Ocean at the University of Potsdam, Dr. Antje Boetius, Director of the Alfred Wegener Institute and Halldór Björnsson, Leader of Atmospheric Research Group at the Icelandic Meteorological Office. They will discuss the effects of Arctic Tipping Points such as the loss of the Greenland Ice Sheet, the Arctic Ecosystem and Atmospheric Circulation. This Session originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly and also includes a Q&A with the audience, moderated by Brynhildur Davíðsdóttir, Professor of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Iceland.

Reaction to the Greenland Report

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we hear the reaction from three experts belonging to different sectors in Greenland to the extensive report of the Icelandic Ministry for Foreign Affairs on how to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. The experts are Aki-Matilda Høegh-Dam, MP the Danish Folketing, Jacob Nitter Sørensen, CEO Air Greenland and Josephine Nymand, Head of Department, Greenland Institute of Natural Resources; Chair of Greenland Research Council. The dialogue originally took place on March 15th 2021 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform, Arctic Circle VIRTUAL. The event was moderated by Halla Hrund Logadóttir, co-founder and co-director of the Arctic Initiative at Harvard Kennedy School and includes remarks from Össur Skarphéðinsson, former Foreign Minister of Iceland.

The Future of EU in the Arctic

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we learn more about The Future of EU in the Arctic. The dialogue originally to place on December 1st 2020 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform, Arctic Circle VIRTUAL. In this event, EU‘s Ambassador at Large for the Arctic, Michael Mann discusses the updates to the EU Arctic Policy and answers questions from the audience. The event was moderated by Rachael Lorna Johnston, Professor of Law at the University of Akureyri and at Ilisimatursafik, the University of Greenland.

GlobalArctic Today

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we learn more about the GlobalArctic Today! The dialogue originally to place on November 11th 2020 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform, Arctic Circle VIRTUAL. In this event the Arctic Circle‘s Mission Council on GlobalArctic discusses geopolitical stability and power politics, fossil economy, science and the urgency of climate change mitigation. The event was moderated by Lassi Heininen, professor emeritus and chairman of the Arctic Circle Mission Council on the GlobalArctic.

How can Renewable Energy Save the Arctic

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode, titled „How can Renewable Energy save the Arctic“, we hear Francesco La Camera, the Director General of IRENA, the International Renewable Energy Agency, discuss the importance of renewable energy for the Arctic and the world. This session originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly and includes a Q&A from the audience, moderated by Guðni A. Jóhannesson, Director General of the National Energy Authority of Iceland.

U.S. Arctic Science Leadership

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode, titled „United States Arctic Science Leadership“, we hear France A. Cordova, Director of U.S. National Science Foundation discuss the role of the NSF in Arctic Research. This session originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly and includes Q&A from the audience moderated by Dr. Larry Hinzman, President, International Arctic Science Committee and an introduction by H.E. Jeffrey Ross Gunther, Ambassador of the United States to Iceland.

CarbFix: a revolutionary way to turn CO2 into stone

Tue, 04 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode we learn more about CarbFix the revolutionary way to premanently storing CO2 by turning it into stone. Edda Sif Pind Aradóttir, CEO of Carbfix will introduce this breakthrough technology and answers question from the audience. The Session originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Inuit: the Future We Want

Tue, 04 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, titled Inuit: The Future We Want, we hear from four Inuit representatives: Verner Hammeken, CEO Royal Arctic Line A/S, Greenland, Valerie Davidson, former Liutentant Governor, State of Alaska, Sara Olsvig, Director UNICEF Greenland and Aluki Kotierk, President of Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. The panelists share their expert views on economic, social, cultural and political issues and how those issues affect the future of the Inuit Peoples. This Session originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly and was moderated by Dalee Sambo Dorough, Chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Council.

Restoring Arctic Sea Ice to Mitigate Global Climate Devastation

Tue, 04 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

You‘re listening to the Arctic Circle Podcast. In this episode we learn more about the Ice911 Research (now Arctic Ice Project) and how they are already testing a way to restrore reflective Arctic Sea Ice a project that can make a significant difference in fighting Climate Change. We will hear from Ice911 experts: Leslie Field, Founter and CTO, Peter Wadhams, Emeritus Head of the Polar Ocean Physics Group in the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics at the University of Cambridge, Stepanie Lapensee, Consultant at Ice911 Resarch and Steve Payne, Governing Board Chair at Ice911 Research. The Session originally took place at the 2019 Arctic Circle Assembly.

Greenland in the New Arctic

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

This episode is titled Greenland in the New Arctic. The Icelandic Ministry for Foreign Affairs recently published an extensive report with a detailed analysis of the current relationship between Greenland and Iceland with 99 recommendations on how to strenghten the cooperation even further. In this event Iceland‘s Former Minister for Foreign Affairs and chairman of the committee that delivered the report, Össur Skarphéðinsson, discusses the publication and answers questions from the audience. The dialogue originally took place on February 22nd 2021 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform, Arctic Circle VIRTUAL and was moderated by Halla Hrund Logadóttir, co-founder and co-director of the Arctic Initiative at Harvard Kennedy School.

MOSAiC - Largest Arctic Expedition in History

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode we learn more about MOSAiC – the Largest Arctic Expedition in History. The dialogue originally to place in October 2020 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform, Arctic Circle VIRTUAL. It features two of the project leaders, Marcus Rex who‘s title is Expedition Leader and Dr. Antje Boetius who is the Director of the Alfred Wegener Institute which spearheaded MOSAiC. Dr. Jan Gunnar Winter, Director of the Center for the Ocean and the Arctic moderated the event.

How will the Arctic be Impacted by the U.S. Presidential Election?

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 13:00:00 +0000

How will the Arctic be impacted by the U.S. Presidential Election? This question was at the core of this episode with U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski from Alaska. This dialogue took place in October 2020 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform Arcitc Circle VIRTUAL when the Presidential elections were only 4 weeks away. Arctic Circle‘s own Chairman, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson moderated the event.

Estonia in the Arctic Council? What can it offer?

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode we learn more about Estonia‘‘s application to become an observer state in the Arctic Council. The dialogue originally to place on Januray 21st 2021 on Arctic Circle‘s online media platform, Arctic Circle VIRTUAL. In this event Estonia‘s President Kjersti Kaljulaid discusses the application, what Estonia can offer the Arctic and answers questions from the audience. The event was moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon at the 2017 Arctic Circle Assembly

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland discuss Scotland‘s efforts to fight climate change and how partnerships between Scotland and it‘s Arctic neigburs is key to achieving Scotland‘s ambitious plans to reduce carbon imissions. The First Minister‘s speech is followed by a Q&A with the audience. This event originally took place at the 2017 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland. The Q&A was moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon at the 2016 Arctic Circle Assembly

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode we listen to H.E. Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland discuss Scotland‘s efforts to fight climate change and seek Climate Justice. The First Minister‘s speech is followed by a Q&A with the audience. This event originally took place at the 2016 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland. The Q&A was moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland.

Ban Ki-moon receives the Arctic Circle Prize

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode we revisit the 2016 Arctic Circle Prize Ceremony when Ban Ki-moon, General Secretary of the United Nations was awarded the first Arctic Circle Prize. The episode includes the award ceremony and Ban Ki-moon‘s acceptance speech. The award ceremony was moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former president of Iceland.

John Kerry's speech on Climate Change: Receiving the Arctic Circle Prize

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode we revisit the 2019 Arctic Circle Prize Ceremony when John Kerry, the 68th U.S. Secretary of State was awarded the Arctic Circle Prize. The episode includes the award ceremony, Secretary Kerry‘s acceptance speech and a Q&A from the audience. The award ceremony was moderated by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former president of Iceland.