Arctic Initiative 2022-2023 Year in Review

Friends and colleagues,

As we reflect on the past academic year, we are honored to share the progress we have made addressing some of the biggest challenges facing the Arctic region. Starting six years ago as a small project, the Arctic Initiative at the Harvard Kennedy School has grown into one of the world’s top academic programs on the Arctic. 

The Arctic has become a crucible of climate change impacts, economic and social challenges, and geopolitical uncertainties, all of which necessitate thoughtful and collaborative responses. Serving as a pivotal convener of Arctic thought leaders, the Arctic Initiative has focused on comprehending and communicating the local and global impacts of permafrost thaw, developing strategies to enhance community resilience, and navigating the intricacies of the future of Arctic governance. 

In this moment of dynamic change and lingering uncertainties in the region, fostering constructive dialogue among diverse experts and practitioners remains paramount to assess and inform the future of the Arctic. We remain steadfast in our dedication to comprehending and responding to the region’s pressing challenges. Leveraging our interdisciplinary strengths and extensive global networks, we continue to elevate Arctic policy dialogue and underscore the significance of inclusive governance. 

Beyond our commitment to addressing the pressing Arctic challenges, we embrace the profound responsibility of helping to nurture the next generation of Arctic leaders. Our commitment to education and mentorship manifests in initiatives such as the Policy and Social Innovation for the Changing Arctic Course, the transformative Indigenous Youth Leadership in the Climate Crisis Workshop, active participation in the ARCADE program for young Arctic Leaders, and the perennially successful annual Innovation Lab at the Arctic Circle Assembly. 

As we emphasize the significance of inclusive Arctic governance, dynamic dialogue, and fruitful cooperation for a sustainable and harmonious future, we are unwavering in our pursuit to actively engage with Indigenous communities, promote sustainable practices, and advocate for robust norms and institutions. 

The following pages highlight notable activities from the 2022–2023 academic year, organized by our five focus areas. We are grateful to all of the faculty, fellows, staff, students, advisors, and partners whose insights and dedication have been instrumental in advancing our Initiative’s mission.

John Holdren
Co-Chair, Arctic Initiative

Henry Lee
Co-Chair, Arctic Initiative

Download the 2022-2023 Year in Review