Abstract:
The changing climate will require a global adjustment to the resulting environmental changes, as well as geopolitical and societal framework. Within this setting, different interests are drivers for policy development and international relations. Advancement in science will be critical to enable the development of new technologies providing resilience to the changes encountered and help society to adapt, overcome challenges, and explore new opportunities. On this background access to innovation, knowledge, and scientific advances will be of great importance, in particular with respect to economic and geopolitical interests.

The panel will discuss the impact that increased access to the north will have and how this impacts, for example, Canadas economic and territorial interests, as well the societal impact on indigenous communities. In this context the panel will reflect on the role that international relations and research security in a changing geopolitical context have. Although motivated through the impact of climate change on the Canadian north, the panel will provide insight into the global research security and international relation nexus, and how policy and regulation impact science, research partnerships, and society.

Summary of Conversations

The panel explored the intersection of research, security, and international relations amid climate change, particularly focusing on the Canadian North. Discussions highlighted the increasing accessibility of the Arctic due to melting ice, presenting both economic opportunities, like the reimagining of a seaway through Churchill and Hudson Bay, and security challenges. These challenges include monitoring increased shipping, ensuring data access for Northern communities, and addressing foreign interference. The importance of community-led research, integrating Indigenous knowledge, and addressing human and food security in the North was emphasized. The conversation also touched on balancing international research collaborations with national security concerns and the need for a cohesive national strategy.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of Challenges

• Increased access to the Arctic presents dual economic and security implications, including potential exploitation by foreign actors.
• Northern communities face unique vulnerabilities related to human and food security, which are exacerbated by climate change.
• Aerospace technology and data are crucial for monitoring climate change impacts and ensuring the safety and security of Northern communities, but accessibility remains a challenge.
• Existing research security policies may not adequately address the complexities of private sector partnerships and shell companies.
• Balancing academic freedom with national security concerns requires careful consideration, education, and awareness among researchers.
• Geopolitical tensions impact research collaborations, necessitating a strategic approach to trust and partnership selection.
• Climate change is significantly impacting the readiness and operational capabilities of the Canadian Armed Forces.
• A fragmented policy landscape, with varying provincial and federal rules, hinders effective research security implementation.

Recommendations/Next Steps

• Prioritize community co-development in research initiatives, recognizing Indigenous knowledge as integral to understanding and addressing Northern challenges.
• Develop a comprehensive national strategy that integrates economic, social, and security considerations related to the Arctic.
• Enhance domain awareness in the Arctic through investment in technology and collaborative efforts with local communities.
• Establish clear guidelines and resources for researchers regarding dual-use potential and risk assessment, promoting responsible research practices.
• Foster international research collaborations while implementing robust security protocols and carefully evaluating potential partners.
• Promote open communication and trust-building between researchers, security officers, and Indigenous communities to address concerns and mitigate risks effectively.
• Improve the integration of climate change considerations into national security strategies and research funding decisions.
• Streamline research security policies at the federal level to create a coherent and consistent framework across Canada.