Final Report of the Joint Working Group Between Finland and Norway on the Arctic Railway

Abstract

On 9 May 2018, the Ministry of Transport and Communications appointed a joint working group between Finland and Norway to examine how to proceed in the Arctic railway project and to determine its schedule. The working group examined the key issues in the railway routing, relating for example to the environment, permit procedures, costs, funding structure and finance model. Subgroups were established to focus on the finance issues, planning and permit procedures, environmental issues and questions relating to the Sámi. This is a preliminary report, which means that no decision on the construction of the railway or the choice of routing has been made.

A rail connection to the Arctic Ocean would improve Finland's logistical position, security of supply and Lapland's accessibility. At present, the Arctic railway is the only significant joint project between Finland and Norway. It is also the most significant land-use project ever that has direct impact on the Sámi Homeland in Finland, which is why certain special features have to be considered. The Arctic railway would affect in many ways the Sámi culture and livelihoods, for example reindeer husbandry and its structure, reindeer grazing, and pastures. That is why when the effects of the Arctic railway on the indigenous people, the Sámi, are being assessed, it is necessary to ensure real interaction and the statutory opportunities available to the Sámi for negotiations and hearings.

The working group's term ended on 14 December 2018.