🇳🇴 High level conference in Tromsø takes the temperature of an Arctic close to boiling point

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Global attention is fixed on the Arctic as Arctic Frontiers 2026 takes place in Tromsø from February 2nd–5th, gathering more than 1100 participants, including international political leaders and 120 accredited journalists from 17 countries.

The conference, themed “Turn of the Tide,” focuses on a historic turning point for the Arctic, addressing shifting relations between Arctic states, pressure on established frameworks for cooperation, and an increased emphasis on national priorities, defense, and security.

The conference opens with the Big Picture session Arctic State of Affairs on Tuesday, February 3rd, featuring:

  • Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada
  • Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway
  • Vivian Motzfeldt, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greenland
  • Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Vice-President of the European Commission
  • Christian Danielsson, State Secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office of Sweden
  • Professor Åsa Rennermalm, Professor of Geography at Rutgers University and President of AGU’s Cryosphere Section

“The Arctic has become a geopolitical ‘hot spot,’ and the growing interest is felt both at global and local levels. We must ensure that we are not only talked about but are part of the conversation. We have the potential to supply the world with energy, protein, and minerals, and we are custodians of some of the most strategically important land and sea areas in today’s geopolitical landscape. The backdrop for this year’s conference is somber, but the title gives reason for optimism. The turn of the tide is a window of opportunity, even if it’s a narrow one. We can influence the outcome if we act with wisdom and speed,” says Anu Fredrikson, Executive Director of Arctic Frontiers.

    On Wednesday, February 4th, the session The Ebb & Flow of Economies will address how rising protectionism, security concerns, and shifting trade patterns are affecting Arctic economies. Participants include:

    • Ben Mallott, President, Alaska Federation of Natives
    • Håkon Haugli, CEO, Innovation Norway
    • Miki Jensen, Director, Innovation South Greenland
    • Joanna Kuntonen-van’t Riet, Corporate Affairs Manager, AA Sakatti Mining Oy

    Later that day, the session Building up the Arctic will focus on infrastructure, societal preparedness, and local ownership, featuring:

    • Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Norway
    • Baiba Braže, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Latvia
    • Silje Karine Muotka, President of the Norwegian Sámi Parliament
    • Natan Obed, President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami

    In addition, there will be 15 free events open to the public throughout the conference week. The program is continuously updated and available at: Arctic Frontiers Conference Program.

    Arctic Frontiers is one of the leading international platforms for dialogue on Arctic issues. Established in 2007, the conference annually brings together participants from more than 30 countries, representing policy, research, business, as well as local and Indigenous communities. Arctic Frontiers is held in Tromsø, both physically and digitally, and works to promote knowledge-based development in the Arctic.

    Originally published on January 29, 2026 by Arctic Frontiers.

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