WWF congratulates the Kingdom of Denmark on its upcoming Chairship of the Arctic Council

[Stockholm, Sweden]—WWF congratulates the Kingdom of Denmark on its upcoming Chairship of the Arctic Council and the appointment of Kenneth Høegh as Chair and Arctic Ambassador. We welcome the continuity in the Council’s work on its chosen priorities: true engagement of Indigenous Peoples, sustainable economic development, ocean conservation, climate change, and biodiversity.

As one of the longest-serving Observers to the Arctic Council, WWF stands ready to support the Chairship, Member States, and Permanent Participants, contributing our expertise to concrete projects and the shaping of Arctic policies.

A critical moment for the Arctic

Nations have committed to important targets to combat climate change and protect global biodiversity by 2030. The Arctic Council plays a critical role in meeting these ambitions in the Arctic.

This new Chairship comes at a critical moment, and by advancing the priority areas in the Arctic Council Strategic Plan, the Kingdom of Denmark has the opportunity to catalyze global momentum.

The plan envisions: “a region where it is firmly established that healthy ecosystems and habitats are of critical importance and the uniqueness and fragility of the Arctic environment is respected by all in the region and beyond.”

To realize this vision, the Arctic Council must renew its commitment to the conservation of Arctic biodiversity, ecosystems, and species habitats by strengthening marine protection and advancing ecosystem-based management. This will not only benefit the people and nature of the Arctic but also reaffirm the Arctic Council’s continued strength and leadership.

Championing collaboration in uncertain times

“WWF strongly supports the Kingdom of Denmark’s Arctic priorities, particularly those focused on climate action, biodiversity, and Indigenous Peoples,” says Vicki Lee Wallgren, Director, WWF Global Arctic Programme.

“In the face of growing geopolitical uncertainty, it is essential that these priorities remain at the forefront of the Arctic Council’s agenda. While security concerns are undoubtedly important, we must not lose sight of the Arctic’s fragile environment and the need for collaborative, long-term solutions to protect it. These priorities are crucial for ensuring a sustainable future for both the Arctic ecosystems and its communities” says Wallgren.

WWF calls on all stakeholders to remain committed to these crucial priorities and stands ready to support the Arctic Council in ensuring a well-managed, biodiverse, and resilient Arctic that benefits the well-being of people in the Arctic and beyond.

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For further information:
Andrea Norgren | Sr. Manager Communications, WWF Global Arctic Programme | andrea.norgren@wwf.se

About WWF: For 60 years, WWF has worked to help people and nature thrive. As the world’s leading conservation organization, WWF works in nearly 100 countries. At every level, we collaborate with people around the world to develop and deliver innovative solutions that protect communities, wildlife, and the places in which they live.