IGF 2025 Lightning Talk #148 Highway to North: digital transformation of the Arctic

    McGill University
    Nicole McNeil-Zelinska, McGill University, Technical community, Western European and Others Group (WEOG) David Okpatuma, Friends for Leadership, Civil Society, African Group Sindre Mørk, Steigan.no, Private Sector, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
    Speakers
    Bogdan Chernyshev, Rosatom, Technical Community, Eastern European Group Milos Jovanovic, OpenLink Group, Private Sector, Western European and Others Group (WEOG) Umirbek Abdullaev, Youth Envoy, ITU Generation Connect, Intergovernmental organizations, Asia-Pacific Group
    Onsite Moderator
    Sindre Mørk
    Rapporteur
    David Okpatuma
    SDGs
    3. Good Health and Well-Being
    4. Quality Education
    7.2
    8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
    9.1
    10. Reduced Inequalities
    11.4
    13.2
    17. Partnerships for the Goals


    Targets: This lightning talk is aligned with several Sustainable Development Goals in a sense that joint human oversight over the implementation of digital technologies and collaborative efforts among stakeholders are vital to ensure that digital innovations in the Arctic stay in line with environmental protection, climate action, and ecosystem conservation. The development of digital infrastructure in the Arctic must prioritise environmental stewardship. This includes implementing sustainable practices that minimise the ecological footprint, protect biodiversity and what is more respect and support the livelihoods of indigenous communities of the Arctic. Furthermore, digital transformation of the Arctic not only presents an opportunity to enhance connectivity while fostering inclusivity and reducing inequalities, it can also stimulate local economies, contributing to decent work and economic growth. Innovations such as telemedicine or virtual learning can also enhance educational opportunities and improve access to healthcare services in remote northern regions.
    Format
    Lightning Talk (5 minute presentation per each speaker) + Q&A session with the audience
    Duration (minutes)
    30
    Description
    Arctic has become a region where digital technologies are being harnessed across a multitude of sectors, from monitoring ice conditions and ensuring maritime safety along the Northern Sea Route & The Northeast Passage to establishing communication and rescue systems. These advancements extend to oil, gas & mineral extraction, cargo transportation, cybersecurity, science, education, and healthcare. The digital transformation of the Arctic presents a rather lucrative economic opportunity with the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants. However, introducing digital technologies into this unique environment is a complex and precarious endeavour. It is therefore absolutely vital to discuss and acknowledge the inherent risks and the Arctic's status as a vulnerable ecosystem, home to indigenous communities and unique wildlife. This session opts for the discussion of the transformative impact of digital technologies in the Arctic, emphasising the need for resilient and responsible introduction of infrastructure into the region with regard to environmental sustainability and climate change.

    Online audience will have the same opportunities to engage and ask questions, comment on the presentations, as it will be moderator's responsibility to facilitate an inclusive dialogue during the session.