Arctic Circle Assembly Convenes in Reykjavík with Focus on Geopolitics and Security

The annual Arctic Circle Assembly, a leading international gathering on Arctic affairs, convened in Reykjavík, Iceland, from October 17 to 19, 2024. The event attracted nearly 3,000 participants from more than 70 countries, fostering dialogue on critical issues facing the Arctic region and the globe. Held at the Harpa Conference Center and the Reykjavik EDITION, the assembly placed a significant emphasis on defense and security concerns, reflecting the evolving geopolitical landscape of the High North.

Key Discussions on Defense and Geopolitics

A central theme of the 2024 Assembly was the discussion surrounding geopolitics and security in the Arctic. Representatives from the U.S. government introduced a new Arctic defense policy, while the European Union's Energy Commissioner addressed Europe's energy security. The Chair of NATO's Military Committee also presented on NATO's expanding role in the Arctic, highlighting the region's strategic importance. Afternoon plenary sessions frequently featured heads of state and other dignitaries debating the Arctic policies of major powers like China and the United States.

Diverse Participation and New Initiatives

The assembly saw a wide array of participants, including international leaders such as U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, China's Special Climate Representative Liu Zhenmin, and UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay. President of Iceland Halla Tómasdóttir was also among the notable attendees. The event featured over 700 speakers across 250 seminars, covering a broad spectrum of topics. Two significant new initiatives were launched during the 2024 Assembly:

• The Polar Dialogue: A three-day series of sessions, workshops, and plenary meetings focusing on scientific and research cooperation across the Arctic, Antarctic, and the Third Pole region. This dialogue was moderated by former Icelandic Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir.
• The Arctic Circle Business Forum: A platform for business leaders to discuss opportunities and challenges in the Arctic, with a focus on sustainable business development.

Broader Arctic Challenges Addressed

Beyond defense and security, the assembly tackled numerous other critical issues pertinent to the Arctic's future. These included:

• The future of polar science diplomacy
• Arctic Indigenous youth leadership
• Sustainable energy and climate change
• Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Arctic
• Preservation of the Arctic environment
• Resilient food systems in a changing Arctic
• Collaborative research and education

The discussions underscored the urgent need to address the ongoing reductions in sea ice, land ice, and permafrost, emphasizing the global impact of Arctic changes.