The conference takes place he week 23-28 January in Norway’s Arctic capital Tromsø.
Arctic Frontiers celebrates its 5th anniversary in 2011 and marks the occasion by addressing the role of research for sustainable development of the Arctic.
Over the last five years Arctic Frontiers has developed to become a highly significant arena for discussions of Arctic issues
True to its mandate and name, Arctic Frontiers endeavours to facilitate dialogue and partnerships across sectors, generations and ethnic groups, the organizers write in a press-release.
Selected speakers from the Arctic and non Arctic countries are invited to present their perspectives on the future of the High North, followed by discussions on how upcoming challenges in the Arctic may be addressed to ensure sustainable development.
The conference theme of 2011 is Arctic Tipping Points, and will address the concept of tipping points as it applies to social, economic and ecological systems. Additional focus will be on how research can promote sustainable development and resource management in the High North.
The opening speech of the 2011 conference will be given by Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jonas Gahr Støre. “Arctic Frontiers is an important international event aimed at fostering open and independent dialogue on sustainable development in the Arctic”, Gahr Støre states in a commentary on the Arctic Frontiers webpage published today.
From Lomonosov to Nansen – and beyond
Arctic Frontiers 2011 is acting as organizer and main venue when Russia and Norway join forces and to celebrate the international dimension of science. In 2011 Russia is celebrating the 300th anniversary of the multitalented Russian scientist and writer, Michail Lomonosov, “the father of Russian science”.
In Norway 2011 will be celebrated as the Nansen – Amundsen Year, marking the 150th anniversary of the Norwegian scientist, diplomat and Nobel laureate, Fridtjof Nansen, and the 100th anniversary of the first Antarctic expedition to reach the South Pole, lead by the Norwegian explorer, Roald Amundsen. On this occasion Russia and Norway join forces to promote and celebrate the international dimension of science, arranging a joint exhibition and seminar on international research cooperation titled “From Lomonosov to Nansen – and beyond”.
Opening of both events will take place in Tromsø, on the opening night of Arctic Frontiers, Sunday 23 January 2011.
The conference program of 2011 was launched on the Arctic Frontiers webpage this week. At the launch, conference manger Reinhold Fieler said: “Arctic Frontiers is an international meeting place. The program addresses both state of the art science and policy issues concerning the High North. We are very excited about the fifth Arctic Frontiers conference, and look forward to welcoming former and new participants to Tromsø and Arctic dialogue”.
