Increased tensions in international affairs have had a significant impact on developments in the Arctic. States with interests in the region must both monitor the situation closely and be prepared to respond to rapid changes there.
While global warming threatens the environment and communities—and opens new shipping routes—the Russian invasion of Ukraine has greatly diminished hopes for peaceful cooperation in the Arctic.
To discuss the Arctic in a changing world, Varðberg, the Icelandic Arctic Cooperation Network, the University of Akureyri, and the Stefansson Arctic Institute invited the public to an open meeting on Monday, May 26, 2025, from 14:00 to 16:30. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs, addresses the conference.
The discussion focuses on the impact of sharply increased international tensions on Arctic affairs, particularly in light of rapid climate change, the region’s growing strategic and military importance, and Iceland’s interests.
Ministerial address: Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, Foreign Minister.
Presentation 1: Dr. Davíð Þór Björgvinsson, University of Akureyri
Titill erindis: VarnarsamningurÍslands og Bandaríkjanna í sögulegu ljósi.
Presentation 2: Dr. Rachael Lorna Johnstone, University of Akureyri and University of Greenland
Titill erindis: Norðurskautsráðið:vísindi og öryggi
Presentation 3: Soffía Guðmundsdóttir, PAME
Titill erindis: Auknar siglingará Norðurslóðum: Mikilvægi Norðurskautsráðsins
Presentation 4: Dr. Ólína Kjerúlf Þorvarðardóttir, University of Bifröst
Titill erindis: Hvað er aðóttast? Ísland og Norðurslóðir í nýjum heimi
Address by SAO: Bergdís Ellertsdóttir, Senior Arctic Official
Closing Remarks: Dr. Áslaug Ásgeirsdóttir, Rektor of the University of Akureyri
