Artica Writings 2024: SVALBARD’S INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY
In 2024 Artica Svalbard’s Artica Writings series focused on the personal stories of international residents in Svalbard. Unlike many Arctic regions, Svalbard has no indigenous population, with its 2,500 residents representing over 50 countries. Recent changes in Norwegian policies, outlined in the Svalbard white paper, aim to make Longyearbyen more appealing to Norwegian families by improving housing and services. At the same time, voting rights for non-Norwegian residents in local elections are being restricted unless they have strong ties to mainland Norway. These changes signal a shift in Norway’s governance approach, aiming to reinforce its presence in the region while impacting Svalbard’s diverse international community.
Led by journalist Elida Høeg, known for her work on climate and migration, with photography by Ángel Valiente, the series explores how international residents navigate these evolving policies and cultural dynamics. The interviews took place in Longyearbyen at the end of 2024 and delve into the personal journeys, the challenges of adapting to Norwegian customs, and the broader implications of policy shifts. Coinciding with the centenary of the Svalbard Treaty, which upholds principles of shared access and equality, the essays culminate in a 2025 publication that offers an intimate and timely portrait of life in this unique Arctic community.
Due to Svalbard's tax-free status, selling and shipping items from here can be complex, so offering our books for free helps us avoid those issues. While we declare the book as having no commercial value, some countries may still apply customs fees based on local regulations. To order a book, please email us at books@articasvalbard.no, and we’ll calculate the shipping cost based on your location.
If you're based in Svalbard, you can purchase a copy for 100 NOK at the Artica Workshop—just drop by!
Designed by City Edition Studio
Typeset in STK Bureau Serif by Smuss Type Kiosk and Scatterplot by CAST Type Foundry
Printed on recycled paper by Taylor Brothers Ltd, Bristol, UK.
Published by Artica Svalbard, Postboks 321, Vei 608–3 9170 Longyearbyen, Svalbard
On the occasion of Artica Writings 2024 (published 2026) All rights reserved.
Photos above by City Edition Studio