The Research Council is seeking input in connection with the preparation of a new version of the Research Strategy for the Arctic and Northern Areas (forskning.nord; Englisch Summary).
The underlying framework for cooperation in the north has changed significantly since the research strategy was first adopted five years ago. The world is focusing greater attention on the Arctic and northern areas than was previously the case.
Increased internationalisation
Russia is a far more open country today than it was five years ago. This makes cooperation between our two countries easier. Moreover, countries such as China and India have also come on board. Both have established research stations in Svalbard and are looking into opportunities to use the raw materials they think are to be found there. The possibility of large oil deposits in the northern areas is also attracting interested parties from other parts of the world," states Director General of the Research Council Arvid Hallén.
"Another important change is the melting of the sea ice in the Arctic, which is opening up opportunities for new shipping routes to the Pacific Ocean via the northern areas," Mr Hallén continues.
More knowledge needed
The Research Council's draft of the revised Research Strategy for the Arctic and Northern Areas (in Norwegian) is based on these new developments in the framework. A great deal of knowledge will be needed to exploit the new potential successfully and establish appropriate rules for activities in the northern areas.
"Research has a key role to play in how things unfold in these areas. Norway is a small country with vast sea areas and abundant natural resources. It is crucial that we have a knowledge base that makes it possible to manage these areas and make use of the resources in the soundest possible manner," says Mr Hallén.
Input
The deadline for submission of input to the revised strategy is 15 April. The current plan is for the new version to be completed during the month of June.
