Svalbard in a Changing World: Security, Sovereignty and Rising Tensions

Held on 5 March 2026, the event brought together researchers, journalists and other key voices for a timely conversation on how major geopolitical shifts are shaping Svalbard, Norwegian sovereignty and international obligations.

At a time of growing militarisation in the Arctic, rising security concerns and shifting global power dynamics, Svalbard has become more relevant than ever. The discussion explored what these developments mean for Norwegian policy, security and cooperation in the region, and how national interests can be balanced with international agreements while supporting the continued development of local and family communities on Svalbard.

The evening opened with short presentations by explorer and expedition leader Børge Ousland, who brought a first-hand perspective on the Arctic as a lived and changing environment, and Kari Aga Myklebost, Professor at UiT The Arctic University of Norway, who placed these developments in a broader historical and geopolitical context.

This was followed by a panel discussion moderated by investigative journalist Amund Trellevik, joined by:

Grete K. Hovelsrud – Professor Emerita, Nordland Research Institute / Nord University
Line Nagell Ylvisåker – Editor, Svalbardposten
Tone Sofie Aglen – Political commentator, NRK

Together, the speakers reflected on the increasing significance of Svalbard in a period of geopolitical tension, and the ways in which security policy, international cooperation, climate change and local community development are becoming ever more closely connected in the Arctic.