As part of the Arctic Circle Assembly, Fenja Kroos, researcher at Ecologic Institute, participated as a speaker in the panel discussion “Can We Do Better? Skills for the Next Generation of Arctic Governance Experts.” The session brought together experts from academia, policy, and international networks to reflect on the skills and perspectives needed for the next generation of Arctic governance professionals.

In addition to Fenja Kroos, the panel featured Catherine Chambers, Andreas Raspotnik, Embla Eir Oddsdóttir, Anu Fredrikson, and Jihoon Jeong. The discussion was moderated by Romain Chuffart (University of Akureyri/The Arctic Institute).

The discussion focused on how research can better inform policy, how Indigenous and local communities can be meaningfully included in governance processes, and what skills and networks are needed for the next generation of Arctic governance experts to address the complex political, environmental, and societal challenges shaping the region. Fenja Kroos highlighted in particular the importance of inclusive governance approaches, systems thinking, and strong international research networks and boundary organisations for addressing Arctic governance challenges.

The panel was organised by The Arctic Institute – Center for Circumpolar Security Studies, the University of Akureyri, the Icelandic Arctic Cooperation Network, the High North Centre for Business and Governance at Nord University, and the Nansen Professorship in Arctic Studies.