Nordic Arctic Youth Summit Recommendations
28th of November 2024 over 70 youth representatives from Northern Norway, Northern Sweden and Northern Finland gathered for the youth summit in Tromsø
Julie-Helene
- 28. November 2024
The Tromsø Youth Council and the Regional Youth Council are hosting the youth meeting Nordic Arctic Youth Summit, which takes place as part of the Team Nordic Arctic project, initiated and led by ProTromsø in collaboration with Business Oulu and Umeå Municipality. The project is financed by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs with NOK 3, 700 000 over three years. Additional contribution to the social program for the summit has been financed by Samfunnsløftet, the Barentssecretariat and Troms County.
The Nordic Arctic Youth Program is a set of recommendations presenting a vision for the future of the northern regions as envisioned by young people. This program reflects the outcomes of discussions, workshops, and consultations conducted before the Nordic Arctic Youth Summit 28 November 2024 in Tromsø. Its purpose is to guide
policymakers at local, regional, and national levels in making
informed, youth-centric decisions that shape a vibrant and sustainable future for the north. The Nordic Arctic Youth Program was delivered to the politicians attending the summit and later formally sent to the mayors in all the municipalities and county governments in Northern Norway, Northern Finland and Northern Sweden as well as the governments of the three countries and the Arctic Council.
The Nordic Arctic Youth Summit was initated by Tromsø, Oulu and Umeå as a part of the project Team Nordic Arctic led by ProTromsø and financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
This program focuses on six key themes, each addressing
critical aspects of life in the northern regions. These themes
were identified as priorities by the northern youth and are
supported by concrete recommendations designed to address
current challenges and needs of the youth in the regio
1. AN ATTRACTIVE NORTH WISHLIST FROM A YOUNG PERSPECTIVE
A thriving life in the north requires more than just economic opportunities. The youth want vibrant communities that support well-being, cultural expression, and recreation.
Young people value access to healthcare, diversity of opportunities, and extracurricular activities that foster a connection between people.
Improving access to healthcare and mental health services. Strengthening cultural activities, events, and facilities. Expanding sports opportunities and extracurricular programs.
2. CLIMATE AND NATURE. A KEY TOPIC FOR THE YOUNG
The Arctic is at the forefront of the climate crisis, facing rising
temperatures, melting ice, and biodiversity loss. Young people
are committed to balancing growth with environmental conservation and leading the transition to a sustainable future.
Balancing conservation efforts with economic growth.
Accelerating the green transition and renewable energy
adoption. Promoting sustainable development practices.
3. THE INDIGENOUS VIEW
The northern regions are home to diverse indigenous communities whose perspectives are vital for shaping the future. This theme focuses on ensuring fair representation, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting inclusive collaboration in policymaking.
Preserving traditional livelihoods and fostering sustainable
growth. Promoting the use and teaching of indigenous languages.
Strengthening representation in decision-making processes.
4. YOUNG CONTRIBUTION TO A SECURE NORTH
The Arctic is gaining global attention due to its strategic
importance. This brings opportunities for development but
also challenges related to security. Young people in the north
seek policies that ensure stability and promote cooperation.
Addressing security challenges and promoting peace.
Building resilient and future-proof infrastructure.
Enhancing cross-border and international collaboration.
5. LIVING AND LEARNING
Education is the foundation for a thriving future. The
northern regions need equitable access to quality education,
from early childhood to higher education, with models that
address the unique challenges of remote communities.
Strengthening vocational and higher education pathways.
Developing decentralized education systems for remote areas.
Improving lower and secondary education standards.
6. EARNING AND CREATING FOR TOMORROW
Economic development is critical to retaining young people
in the north. Supporting youth entrepreneurship and
fostering sustainable industries can help build a resilient
economy that empowers the next generation.
Addressing barriers to entrepreneurship, such as funding
and mentorship. Encouraging youth to explore innovative
and sustainable industries. Building a robust economic
framework that supports young business owners.
CONCLUSION
The Nordic Arctic Youth Summit program is a testament
to the ideas and aspirations of young people living in the
north. By addressing these six themes, policymakers can
ensure that the northern regions remain vibrant, sustainable,
and attractive for future generations. The youth of today are
ready to partner with decision-makers to build a resilient
future that honors the unique character of the north while
embracing global challenges and opportunities.
Please read the full document in the link below:
