“Gives a Feeling of Powerlessness”: Final Essay in Artica Writings Series Now Available

Photo: Ángel Valiente

The Artica Writings series concludes with its sixth and final essay, featuring long-time resident Malte Jochmann. A trained geologist from Germany, Jochmann first came to Svalbard in 2001 as a student — the same year local democracy was introduced in Longyearbyen. Over two decades later, he reflects on how much the community has changed, and how recent policy shifts are shaping its future.

In conversation with journalist Elida Høeg, Jochmann shares his journey from geology student to local council representative, and his experience of building a life — and raising a family — in the High Arctic. After years of feeling deeply integrated into the town, he lost his right to vote in 2023 due to changes in national policy affecting non-Norwegian citizens. While he initially welcomed a break from political pressure, he admits the loss of democratic participation affected him more than expected.

“It gives a feeling of powerlessness,” he says.

Jochmann also reflects on past upheavals — including surviving the 2015 avalanche with his family — and contrasts that experience of collective solidarity with the increasing sense of transience in today’s Longyearbyen. As Svalbard transitions out of coal mining and into an uncertain economic and demographic future, he worries that long-term residents, both Norwegian and international, are being overlooked.

“Longyearbyen is not a place to be conservative — change is constant. But it’s paradoxical that the authorities want peace and stability, yet introduce measures that create uncertainty and turnover,” he says.

This final contribution offers a deeply personal and historically grounded perspective on life in Svalbard at a time of significant transition.

Read the full essay here: www.articasvalbard.no/artica-writings-2024/malte-jochmann

Through first-person interviews, the series has explored questions of identity, policy, belonging, and everyday life in the High North. As it concludes, we extend our sincere thanks to journalist Elida Høeg, photographer Ángel Valiente, and all the individuals who generously shared their time and experiences with us.