Geopolitics in the High North: Kirkeneskonferansen 2025

The conference has been held every year since 2008, bringing together politicians, researchers, business representatives and members from the civil society to discuss current topics. This year, the conference was held 21-22 May 2025, gathering people from various countries to Kirkenes to discuss geopolitics and development of the Nordics. Over the two days, panel discussions, keynote speeches and other conversations on stage addressed topics ranging from the Arctic, climate change and industrial development to matters of defence and total preparedness.

Throughout the conference, the audience got to hear from people with various backgrounds. One of the speakers at this year's conference was Oleg Orlov. He is the co-chair of Memorial, a Russian human rights organization that received a Nobel Peace Prize in 2022 for its efforts. In his speech, Orlov discussed Russia, Ukraine and the shifting power relations today.

The war in Ukraine was a topic referenced throughout the conference. Listening to a Ukrainian journalist, Anastasiia Lapatina, and the Ambassador of Ukraine to Norway, Oleksiy Gavrysh, discuss the ongoing war in their homeland was an important reminder to everyone about what is at stake there and how irrevocably the lives of everyone in Ukraine have changed due to their neighbour. Lapatina emphasized that the time of naivete is over, no one can afford being unprepared anymore. Ukraine is still fighting hard, but they need all the support they can get in their fight against Russia.

At the end of the main conference, IBS supported the Barents Regional Youth Council (BRYC) in the collaboration with Arctic Frontiers to host a side event aimed for local youth. At this event, young people on the panel got to discuss what life in a geopolitical hotspot has meant for them personally and how their lived experiences have been shaped by recent events. Through the panel discussion, young people were able to have their voices heard. Following the panel discussion and presentations, everyone got to enjoy some pizza and live music by Evgeny Goman.

Having events that highlight the experiences of the youth is an important way to make young people feel valuable in politics. Too often, it can feel like there is no room for younger generations in politics. Through this panel discussion, young people were able to have their voices heard and discuss important matters. A great way to finish off this year's Kirkeneskonferansen, until next time!