Indigenous Perspectives of Climate Change with Young Voices from the Arctic during One Ocean Week

ClimateNarrtives hosted event titled “Indigenous Perspectives of Climate Change with Young Voices from the Arctic” unfolded on the 18th of April, 2024, as part of the One Ocean Week. This gathering served as a platform for Arctic indigenous youths to articulate their experiences, concerns, and proposed solutions regarding climate change. Invited speakers included Nivi Rosing (Arctic Youth Network), Anja Márjá Nystø Keskitalo (Saami Council), Ragnhild Freng Dale. The conversation was moderated by Julia Morales-Aguirre (Arctic Frontiers).

Panel discussion during One Ocean Week. Photo: UiB

During the event, narratives passed down through generations were discussed. They elaborated on how climate change affects their cultural traditions, integral to their cultural identity.

Moreover, the Arctic youth articulated a sense of urgency, emphasizing the need for immediate and decisive action to mitigate the impacts of climate change. They highlighted the importance of incorporating indigenous knowledge into climate policies, recognizing the value of traditional ecological knowledge in fostering resilience and adaptation strategies.