The SDWG is a Working Group of the Arctic Council, the leading intergovernmental forum promoting cooperation, coordination and interaction among the Arctic States, Arctic Indigenous Peoples and other Arctic inhabitants on common Arctic issues, in particular on issues of sustainable development and environmental protection in the Arctic.
As the Arctic Council’s working group dedicated to the human dimension, the Sustainable Development Working Group (SDWG) is committed to advancing the well-being of Indigenous Peoples and Arctic communities. Its work focuses on enhancing the environment, economies, culture, and health of those who call the Arctic home.
Through collaborative, community-driven initiatives, the SDWG seeks to protect and strengthen the resilience of Arctic societies while supporting opportunities for sustainable development. At the heart of the SDWG’s work is a guiding commitment to generate practical knowledge and to build the capacity of Arctic communities and Indigenous Peoples, empowering them to meet the region’s evolving challenges and fully benefit from emerging opportunities.
By placing people and communities at the centre of Arctic cooperation, the SDWG plays a vital role in shaping a thriving and sustainable future for the region.
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The Social, Economic and Cultural Expert Group (SEC) supports work to advance social, economic and cultural research in the development of sustainable and integrated approaches emerging in the circumpolar region.
Arctic Council Working Group