The Arctic is strongly in focus at the moment because of the International Polar Year which takes place in 2007-2008. The Polar Year, which is being organised for the fourth time, was arranged for the first time back in 1882-1883. Several of the projects receiving funding from the Nordic Council of Ministers support activities in the International Polar Year.The Nordic Council of Ministers supports the Arctic in accordance with the guidelines of the Arctic Co-operation Programme 2006-08. The money granted to Arctic co-operation can be seen as an extra contribution, in addition to the work which is already being done by the relevant councils of ministers.
Funds for the Arctic were allocated by the Nordic Committee for Co-operation, NSK, the highest body of senior officials within the Nordic Council of Ministers, at a meeting just before Christmas.
Visit Nordic Arctic Co-operation for more information.