Dear friends,
It is a pleasure to open this Estonian panel today at the Arctic Circle Assembly – a conference that brings together scientists, practitioners and policy-makers –creating new synergies and providing fresh ideas.
Scientific cooperation for the Arctic brings us together as we face a task of planetary significance – ensuring sustainable development of this vulnerable region. Science has been loud and clear – humans are responsible for the climate crisis and the solutions to tackle the crisis lies also in our hands. So far, we have not listened carefully. And now we’ve come to the point when listening is not enough. We must take action.
When we take action, it is important that we are inclusive when designing our activities. The Arctic communities need to be involved, not only because it directly affects their future, but because there is a lot that we can learn from them.
Finno-Ugric peoples living in Russian Arctic and their way of life, has been our special focus for a very long time. In the University of Tartu you can find the highest number of experts on indigenous peoples of Russian Arctic outside of Russia. They form the Centre of Arctic Cultures. Our National Museum has a permanent display dedicated to Finno-Ugric people and the museum has contributed to research of these communities. Recently, in June 2021, we hosted in that Museum the 8th World Congress of the Finno-Ugric Peoples. The University of Tartu has the largest genetic database of Siberian peoples. We do all this, as we feel a special connection to the Arctic, it represents our roots and it has an impact on our future.
I started my career as a scientist, I appreciate facts and science-based solutions. I have learned that very often solutions need a supportive political framework to be implemented at the society. I am also convinced that preserving history, culture and knowledge is very important. Regarding the Arctic, Estonia is able to contribute in all these aspects, starting with excellent scientific research.
Estonian polar research traditions have a long history and we might even call this field our historic strength. Of course, science has developed significantly since the days of polar explorers. We always strive to provide a high standard in research and innovation. Because, as a small nation, we know that we can only punch above our weight using our intellectual capacity and through innovation.
Small states can and should be frontrunners in offering solutions to global problems. Quite often, a solution first developed or tested in a small nation can be scaled up globally. Today, you shall hear more about our achievements and goals from our distinguished panellists.
I am proud of what Estonian scientists have been doing in their research of Northern peoples and the Arctic climate. By engaging with the Northern Peoples we also able to make their voices heard.
Without further ado, I leave the floor to our panellists, enjoy the discussion!
