UiT - The Arctic University of Norway
WP5 Lead: Jan Erik Henriksen , Professor, UiT
jan.e.henriksen@uit.no
WP5 Co-Lead: Ida M. Hydle, Professor emerita, UiT
ida.m.hydle@uit.no
Indigenous knowledge-informed coastal resources management
Overview & Objectives
WP5 co-develops future approaches to marine resource management by bringing together Sámi, local, and scientific knowledge. Building on WP2, it supports Sámi coastal communities in shaping relational ecosystem-based management and stewardship of resources in their traditional territories. Two policy papers will be developed that can inform Sámi rightsholders, local stakeholders, and policy makers in relational environmental decision-making processes.
Co-develop future marine resource management and governance options informed by Indigenous Knowledge, scientific and local knowledge through multi-stakeholder dialogue.
Empower Sámi coastal communities to actively participate in and advocate for Sámi needs in ecosystem-based management processes and stewardship of seal populations and marine resources in their traditional territories.
Develop a policy paper on seal that can inform Sámi rightsholders and policy makers in environmental decision-making processes on marine environments.
Co-develop future marine resource management and governance options informed by Indigenous Knowledge, scientific and local knowledge through multi-stakeholder dialogue.
Empower Sámi coastal communities to actively participate in and advocate for Sámi needs in ecosystem-based management processes and stewardship of seal populations and marine resources in their traditional territories.
Develop a policy paper on seal that can inform Sámi rightsholders and policy makers in environmental decision-making processes on marine environments.
Activities & Relational Methods
In WP5 we bring Sámi communities, local stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers together to co-design future approaches to marine resource management in the Varangerfjord and Porsangerfjord. Through participatory workshops and dialogue, our work in WP5 combines Sámi Indigenous Knowledge, local expertise and scientific knowledge to explore sustainable management of red king crab, pink salmon, and seals, while responding to changing ecosystems. The results will inform inclusive marine management and provide practical policy recommendations for relational ecosystem restoration and seal conservation.
Expected Outcomes & Impact
A policy report with recommendations for sustainable pink salmon management, supporting sustainable fisheries and marine conservation in the Varangerfjord, complemented by accessible audiovisual content.
Policy brief on seal-related knowledge in coastal Sápmi to inform decision making regarding seal management.
WP5 team members
Research Areas
Click each place to read more
Várjjat / Varanger is a vital Birgejupmi site facing climate, ecological, and green transition challenges. It supports Sámi marine knowledge, inclusive governance, and local empowerment through Indigenous-led resilience efforts.
Porsáŋgu / Porsanger is a key Birgejupmi site facing climate-driven ecological shifts. With Mearrasiida as a knowledge hub, the community revitalizes seal practices through workshops, supporting Sámi traditions, resilience, and sustainable coastal stewardship.
