Arctic policy
Finland is an Arctic country and one of the eight permanent members of the Arctic Council. All activities in the Arctic must be tied in with the carrying capacity of the natural environment, the need to protect the climate, sustainable development principles and respect for the rights of indigenous populations.
The Prime Minister’s Office is responsible for coordinating Arctic policy and has appointed an Arctic Advisory Board and a working group of officials responsible for Arctic policy to carry out this work. The Arctic Advisory Board brings together the key Finnish stakeholders involved in activities in the Arctic.
Finland’s Strategy for Arctic Policy
The Strategy for Arctic Policy (2021) highlights Finland’s key objectives in the Arctic region and outlines the main priorities for achieving them. The strategy extends until 2030.
The priorities
The Arctic region is warming up faster than other areas. The direction of climate change in the Arctic region depends on global emissions reductions. While the drivers of climate change are mainly at work outside the Arctic region, major emissions are also generated by some Arctic countries.
Good living conditions and possibilities for participation in cooperation and decision-making on the Arctic must be safeguarded for the population living in this region. In particular, cross-border cooperation and dialogue between people and NGOs should be facilitated and promoted.
The indigenous peoples living in the Arctic should be able to preserve and develop the vitality of their cultures, languages and traditions and obtain the capabilities needed to adapt to the challenges created by the changes affecting the region. Finland promotes gender equality and non-discrimination in all Arctic cooperation.
Finland’s Arctic expertise is a key part of our country’s Arctic profile. Biodiversity and the carrying capacity of nature, protecting the climate and the environment, the principles of sustainable development, the welfare and participation of the local population as well as indigenous peoples’ rights will be addressed in all economic activity in the Arctic region.
While all business is not harmful for the environment, unsustainable business is. Circular economy, other new principles of economic activity and new technological solutions may also create entirely new business opportunities.
Finland’s position and attraction as an international top expert in the Arctic will be strengthened by investments in education and research. The knowledge and expertise produced by Arctic research will be utilised widely. Research evidence will underpin high-quality and timely decisions in different sectors and fields and promote the Arctic population’s wellbeing.
Infrastructure and logistics in the Arctic region will be developed to serve businesses and the needs of the region’s population through sustainable and low-emission methods and modes of transport. Digitalisation will be promoted in the services of the region and in transport system development. The accessibility of telecommunications will be improved to meet the needs of the authorities, businesses and citizens.
Inquiries
Maiju Ranta, Senior Specialist
Prime Minister's Office, Government Strategy Department, Policy Planning Unit Telephone:0295160277 Email Address: [email protected]