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Summer School 2025 in Tromsø, Norway
In June 2025, the Arctic University of Norway held a summer school aimed at developing Arctic-related human resources for students and young researchers from Europe, America, and Japan. The program included lectures, discussions, and presentations across three fields — governance, security, and the climate and environment — to promote multidisciplinary learning and international exchange about the Arctic region. Two ArCS III Project Assistant Professors participated in the program; here, we report on their experience.
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Think of the Arctic in the Arctic
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Author: Tomoko Tanabe（NIPR）
I spent a valuable week to learn a lot about the Arctic challenges and the importance of the dialogue through the Arctic Summer School at 69°N latitude, Tromsø, Norway, organized by UiT the Arctic University of Norway and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation. It consisted of three modules―Governance, Security, and Environment. Participants selected an Arctic issue based on the lectures, then wrote up a policy proposal as a result of group discussions.
Hearing about ongoing issues from experts directly made each topic feel much more real than just reading or watching the news online. I learned that a given event can be seen differently depending on the cultural or historical background of each individual. I came to realize that there is no single correct answer that everyone can agree on, therefore, it is essential to continue dialogue on each Arctic issue. The experience of creating policy proposals was valuable in understanding that the realistic and effective proposals require diverse perspectives from various fields. I also learned from the attitude of other participants who maintained interest and asked questions, then sought a compromise point even when encountering differing opinions.
The hike during the excursion was a precious opportunity as well to sense the importance of maintaining the low tensions in the Arctic. I felt strange while seeing the peaceful sea from the top of the mountain in Sommarøy because it was just after learning the complex Arctic issues of security and mining, and the history regarding war. Overall, these experiences have encouraged me to think more deeply about how to contribute through my field of expertise to protecting the rights of indigenous communities and the sustainability of the Arctic and building a world with no war.
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Day1, the beginning of the lecture -
Feeling the beautiful Arctic nature on a Fløya hike in Tromsø