SDWG Unveils New Arctic Projects

The SDWG is pleased to announce four new projects that will enhance knowledge sharing, support healthy and thriving Arctic communities, and promote inclusive economic development across the region. These new initiatives, approved under the Arctic Council's Norwegian Chairship (2023-2025), reflects a deep commitment to the well-being, resilience, and prosperity of Arctic peoples.

Spanning inclusive ocean-based economic development, regional business insight, substance use in healthcare settings, and support for those bereaved by suicide — these newly adopted initiatives underscore the SDWG’s steadfast focus on the human dimension—prioritizing the health, culture, livelihoods, and overall well-being of Arctic residents and Indigenous Peoples. They reaffirm the SDWG’s enduring commitment to addressing the Arctic’s complex challenges and diverse opportunities through collaborative, evidence-informed, and people-centred approaches grounded in respect for local voices and knowledge.

1. BlueConnect: An Ocean Economy Collaboration Platform for Inclusive Arctic Communities
This project aims to establish a knowledge-sharing platform that connects Arctic communities, researchers, and policymakers working on blue economy initiatives. BlueConnect will foster collaboration and support inclusive, sustainable ocean-based economic opportunities for Arctic Indigenous Peoples and coastal communities.

2. Arctic Business Index
The Arctic Business Index will serve as a data-driven tool to assess and compare business environments across Arctic regions. By providing region-specific insights and performance indicators, the index will support policymakers, investors, and local stakeholders in promoting responsible economic development and innovation tailored to Arctic realities.

3. SUScreen – Alcohol and Drug Use Among Hospitalized and Ambulatory Patients in Norway and Greenland
SUScreen will collect and analyze data on substance use among patients in healthcare settings in Norway and Greenland. The project seeks to better understand patterns of alcohol and drug use, inform public health strategies, and improve care and prevention efforts in Arctic healthcare systems.

4. Supporting Bereaved by Suicide in the Arctic Region: A Loss-Oriented Perspective
This project will explore culturally appropriate strategies for supporting those who have lost loved ones to suicide in the Arctic. Through community-based research and knowledge exchange, the initiative aims to strengthen mental health responses and promote healing within bereaved families and communities across the circumpolar North.

Under the Kingdom of Denmark’s Chairship (2025–2027), the SDWG will carry these new projects forward in a spirit of collaboration, inclusivity, and deep respect for the diverse voices and lived experiences that shape the Arctic. Together, they embody the SDWG’s multidisciplinary approach to sustainable development and align closely with the overarching priorities and values of the Arctic Council.

For more information on SDWG projects, visit SDWG - Projects.