Annex 1

ARCTIC PARLIAMENTARIANS

THE STANDING COMMITTEE OF PARLIAMENTARIANS OF THE ARCTIC REGION

Conference of Parliamentarians of the Arctic Region

20th – 23^rd March 2024, Kiruna, Sweden

CONFERENCE STATEMENT

In this time of complex global dynamics, the Standing Committee of Parliamentarians of the Arctic Region convenes to address the multifaceted challenges in the Arctic. Our considerations center on topics of both current and future relevance to the Arctic and its people: climate, research, and employment, with continued commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, security and the well-being of Arctic residents, including indigenous peoples. As elected representatives from Canada, Denmark/Greenland, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and the United States of America, and in collaboration with the Indigenous peoples of the Arctic, we highlight the following:

Climate and Waste Management

Acknowledging the existential threat posed by climate change, we advocate for joint efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, preserve biodiversity, and combat pollution in the Arctic region.

We urge Arctic governments to embrace renewable energy solutions, implement stringent waste management policies, promote circular economy and sustainable practices that minimize ecological footprint.

We call on the Arctic governments to improve the infrastructure for management and transportation of waste from Arctic communities and tourism facilities, strengthen cooperation between Arctic states to minimize waste and increase the levels of collection and recycling.

We further urge the Arctic governments to increase joint efforts to minimize marine plastic pollution and call upon non-Arctic states to intensify their effort to minimize marine littering which by forces of nature ends up having severe negative impacts on the ecosystems and wildlife of the Arctic region.

Indigenous voices must be amplified in decision-making processes, empowering local communities to lead initiatives for environmental conservation.

Business and employment

Recognizing the economic imperatives of Arctic development, we emphasize the importance of fostering a competent business environment that balances economic growth with social responsibility and environmental consideration. We treasure the close cooperation with Arctic Economic Council to promote sustainable business development in the Arctic. We call for the promotion of inclusive economic policies and workforce development strategies that prioritize business development, local employment, housing, empower indigenous enterprises, and ensure equitable distribution of benefits derived from Arctic resources and industries.

Research and Education

Emphasizing the role of research and education in fostering resilience and innovation, we underscore the imperative of investing in science, technological advancement, and knowledge exchange within the Arctic. We treasure the close cooperation with the University of the Arctic and highlight the importance of continued collaboration with Arctic research institutions. We advocate for the establishment of interdisciplinary research platforms and academic partnerships that equip Arctic residents, including indigenous youth, with the skills and expertise necessary to address emerging challenges.

Security and preparedness

As the Arctic experiences increasing geopolitical attention and resource interests, maintaining the region as an area of low tension is essential for numerous reasons including continued stability, cooperation, and focus on environmental protection. Recognizing the imperative of safeguarding Arctic territories, we underscore the necessity for cohesive security frameworks that prioritize collaboration and information exchange among the Arctic nations. Ensuring food security is an important factor for health among the Arctic residents, including Indigenous Peoples. We advocate for the reinforcement of search and rescue capabilities, infrastructure development, and disaster response mechanisms tailored to the Arctic's unique environment. Emphasis should be placed on fostering partnerships with indigenous communities to integrate traditional knowledge into emergency preparedness plans.

In conclusion, we, the delegates of the Standing Committee of Parliamentarians of the Arctic Region, urge Arctic governments to take our recommendations into account and translate collective aspirations into concrete actions that safeguard the Arctic's environment, uphold the rights and interests of Arctic residents, including Indigenous Peoples, and foster sustainable development for generations to come.

Respectfully submitted,

Francesco Sorbara, MP

President, Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association