Arctic science diplomacy of Norway: A case study of svalbard

Abstract

Svalbard has undergone a major transformation since 1960s upon the Norwegian government's shifting focus from mining town into scientific activities. While the Spitsbergen Treaty provides a common ground for international scientific collaboration, the installation of satellite ground station by European Space Research Organization (ESRO) in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard Satellite Station in Longyearbyen, and research activities propelled by Norwegian Polar Institute (NPI) has transformed Svalbard into one of the most prominent Arctic science diplomacy cases. Owing to its unique location and easy access opportunities for researchers, research facilities and substantial infrastructures well connected to international networks, professional and social research environment assuring safety routines and regulations as well as an assisting research strategy, the region is currently perceived as an international hub for Arctic research. On the other hand, Svalbard is expected to undergo further structural changes due to its international and transient population. This article aims to outline the Arctic science diplomacy of Norway based on the Svalbard case. Accordingly, the evolution of scientific communities in Svalbard is examined from a science diplomacy perspective. The future implications of structural changes within these communities are also discussed in the conclusion part.