Kullerud's speech will address the current state of affairs in the Arctic, including the main drivers of economic, social and strategic external interest in the region. This will highlight that despite a history of “southern driven” demand for development of the North, many cooperative structures currently in place are strengthening northern leadership and governance - giving northerners a strong voice in determining their own future.
UArctic is one such initiative, along with the Arctic Council and the new circumpolar business forum - the Arctic Economic Council. The address will illustrate the strong contributions that joint educational cooperation can make in forging strong ties across the region while meeting its social and economic development needs.
Participation in the Gaidar Forums includes the governors of many of the Russian Federation's northern regions, distinguished scholars, indigenous leaders from RAIPON and the World Reindeer Herders Association, and the famous explorer and hero of Russia and Soviet Union Professor Arthur N. Chilingarov.