Rovaniemi Arctic Spirit 2025 brought Arctic security into focus
15.5.2025
The Rovaniemi Arctic Spirit Conference took place on 5–7 May 2025, bringing together around 300 participants from across the Arctic and beyond. With the theme “Elements of Arctic Security”, the conference offered a broad perspective on resilience, preparedness, and cooperation in the region.
The conference opened on Tuesday at the Korundi House of Culture with an Arctic Council update from Norwegian and Danish representatives, followed by keynote speeches from Sámi Parliament Acting President Tuomas Aslak Juuso and Finnish Institute of International Affairs Director Hiski Haukkala.
Throughout the day, high-level discussions explored Arctic transportation, infrastructure, and regional security from both civil and military viewpoints. Sessions also focused on Nordic cooperation, climate and environmental change, and the resilience of Arctic communities. The conference design encouraged dialogue and networking, culminating in an evening reception that provided space for informal exchange among participants.
On Wednesday, the event continued at Arktikum House with a diverse programme of parallel sessions. Topics addressing the elements of security included climate security, Sámi and Indigenous perspectives, biodiversity, business, hybrid threats, Arctic governance, seabed mining, mental health, youth engagement, and the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Arctic.
– In the midst of global turbulence, we aimed to keep the Arctic’s own voice – its people, challenges and potential – at the heart of the conversation, says Markku Heikkilä, Head of Science Communications at the Arctic Centre.
Pre-events on Monday featured thematic discussions, a documentary screening, and publication launches. Topics ranged from Finland’s Arctic policy and Arctic–Baltic connections to climate futures and personal journeys through the North. The welcome reception provided a relaxed setting to meet fellow participants and begin conversations ahead of the main conference.
Organized biennially by the Arctic Centre at the University of Lapland and the City of Rovaniemi, the Rovaniemi Arctic Spirit Conference is Finland’s leading platform for international Arctic dialogue. The next event is planned for spring 2027.
Additional information:
Markku Heikkilä
Arctic Centre Head of Science Communications
+358404844300, markku.heikkila(at)ulapland.fi