Arctic focus on Indigenous peoples conference
Kirkenes will be the venue for two indigenous peoples conferences in February, and both conferences are organized by the Norwegian Barents Secretariat. The first conference on February 4th will focus on the role of the Barents Euro Arctic Council for Indigenous Peoples. The second conference will focus on co-existence in the Arctic.
Barents Spektakel has chosen the slogan “Arctic Calling” for the 2010 festival. An important factor in the management of the area is the many different indigenous peoples groups living in or in the proximity of the Arctic area. The Norwegian Barents Secretariat’s has taken the initiative to hold two conferences during the festival, focusing on important issues for indigenous peoples.
On Thursday the 4th of February 50 indigenous politicians and parliamentarians from Russia, Norway, Sweden and Finland are invited to the discussions. The participants will share their views and experiences regarding the role and influence of indigenous peoples in the Barents Euro-Arctic Council. The aim of the Congress is to create a new mandate for the indigenous peoples’ representation in the BEAC and to form a political statement.
On Friday the 5th of February the conflict between industrial activities and indigenous peoples' needs will be debated. Modern activity in areas which traditionally have been used by indigenous peoples has become a severe challenge many places. Is it possible to develop the Arctic region and preserve it for future generations? All eyes are on the Arctic, and everybody wants a piece of the rich land – but isn’t it in fact a joint venture?
At the conference "Co-existence in the Arctic", indigenous peoples' representatives and others will gather to exchange experiences and discuss ways of working towards a joint development of the Arctic. Arctic resources are desperately wanted by the industrialized world.