Arctic Connections: policy framework evaluation

Arctic Connections: Overview and delivery

Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of the development and implementation of the Arctic Connections Policy Framework (ACPF) and its associated Arctic Connections Fund (ACF). It outlines the rationale for their establishment, the process through which they were developed, and the ways in which they have been delivered to support Scotland’s international engagement with Arctic and sub-Arctic nations. The chapter also highlights the outputs and achievements of the ACF to date, demonstrating how the Fund has contributed to the objectives of the Framework.

The Arctic Connections Policy Framework

Development

The ACPF, Scotland’s first Arctic Policy Framework, was launched in 2019 and forms a part of Scotland’s broader strategic approach to international engagement and cooperation. Its development was driven by the recognition that Scotland and Arctic nations share many geographical, environmental and socio-economic characteristics, as well as a history of collaboration and cultural exchange. These shared experiences include the challenges of rurality, demographic change, connectivity, climate adaptation and sustainable economic development.

The Framework was designed to strengthen Scotland’s role as an active and responsible partner in addressing these global challenges while supporting domestic priorities. With the Arctic at the centre of geopolitical attention, the ACPF aims to place people back at the centre of Scottish-Arctic dialogue. The Framework highlights shared challenges, showcases Scottish expertise relevant to Arctic issues, and promotes mutual learning to enhance the resilience and wellbeing of communities. By focusing on areas within the Scottish Government’s devolved responsibilities, it serves as a prospectus for deepening Scottish-Arctic cooperation.

The development of the ACPF followed a period of growing engagement between Scotland and Arctic partners, including participation in the Arctic Circle Assemblies and Forums in Reykjavik and Edinburgh, as well as bilateral discussions with governments and organisations across the region.

This engagement was supported by the Scottish Government’s Nordic Office, which manages Scotland’s diplomatic, economic and cultural relationships with Nordic countries, strengthens Scotland’s presence in regional networks, and acts as a key point of contact for Scottish organisations seeking collaboration in the region.

The Scottish Government also drew on its long-standing involvement in European programmes such as Horizon 2020, Interreg and LEADER which, until the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, have facilitated cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, marine management, rural innovation, and research partnerships.

The ACPF’s development was informed by Scotland’s Global Affairs Framework and International Strategy, which set out a values-based approach to international engagement, as well as the aim of contributing internationally as a good global citizen. It was conceived as a practical platform for cooperation and policy exchange and identifies several priority themes where Scotland and the Arctic can work together, including climate action and renewable energy, science and research, the sustainable marine economy, rural healthcare and digital connectivity, and the promotion of indigenous languages and cultural heritage. The Framework allows Scotland to position itself as a constructive and outward-looking partner in the region, fostering dialogue, collaboration and innovation across these shared policy areas.

The ACPF also demonstrated that Scotland could contribute meaningfully to international dialogue on sustainability, inclusion and resilience, particularly within the context of devolved powers. Within the scope of developed powers, the Framework shows how values-led international engagement can be translated into practical action, enabling Scotland to seize opportunities for collaboration, learning and influence that deliver tangible benefits for the people of Scotland, such as strengthened policy capacity, economic opportunities, and shared solutions to global challenges with local impact. In doing so, the Framework supports Scotland’s wider international ambitions by promoting knowledge exchange while enhancing Scotland’s visibility, credibility and reputation on the global stage.

Implementation

The ACPF has been implemented through a range of policy, partnership and knowledge exchange activities designed to embed collaboration between Scotland and Arctic nations. Its delivery has been supported by the Scottish Government’s international presence, including the Nordic Office in Copenhagen as part of the Scottish Government’s wider network of overseas hubs, alongside Scottish Development International offices whose primary focus is on trade and investment. Working together, these networks have helped facilitate links with Arctic governments, research institutions and community organisations, and supported Scotland’s engagement in activities such as participation in Arctic Circle Assemblies, bilateral policy dialogues and international events that promote joint working and shared learning.

The ACPF has also been used as a tool to enhance domestic policy development. Lessons learned from cooperation with Arctic partners have informed Scotland’s approaches to rural development, sustainable energy, and the wellbeing economy. This reflects the Scottish Government’s recognition that international engagement and domestic policy are closely connected and that collaboration can generate shared benefits. This has created a sustained platform for Scotland’s engagement in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, supporting both international and domestic priorities.

The Arctic Connections Fund

Overview and development

The ACF was launched in July 2021 as a means of translating the policy ambitions of the ACPF into practical, funded activity by aiding Scottish organisations and communities to collaborate with partners in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. The Fund was designed to support third sector and community-based organisations in Scotland to strengthen their connections with partners across the Arctic region. It provided small-scale grants to projects that promote collaboration, innovation and shared learning across a range of thematic areas, including climate change, education, research, culture and sustainable economic development.

The development of the Fund was guided by the same principles that underpin the wider Framework, namely inclusivity, accessibility and a commitment to Scotland’s international values.

The application process was designed so that, as far as possible, the submission requirements were proportionate to the funding amount available. The Scottish Government also ran seminars to support the application process.

Delivery

Since its establishment, the ACF has awarded three rounds of grants, supporting 31 projects with a combined value of £280,000. The Fund’s design has encouraged participation from a diverse range of organisations, enabling community groups, universities, research bodies and cultural institutions to engage in Arctic-focused projects. Each project has been selected based on its alignment with the objectives of the ACPF and its potential to deliver meaningful outcomes.

There were a large number of applications in the first year due to the broad parameters in place. The criteria were further refined in years two and three to be more specific, helping to better manage the volume of applications. Additionally, the overall fund allocation decreased year on year, reflecting a gradual reduction in available resources. Table 2.1 shows the applications for the ACF funding, with details on applications received, successful applications and funding granted for each round of the ACF.

Details of successful projects for each round of funding are published here on the Scottish Government website, for years 2021/22, 2022/23, 2023/24. These will be further explored in more detail throughout this report.

Project outputs

Project outputs were manifold, covering a diverse range of materials and resources. The programme enabled collaborations between Scottish universities, cultural organisations, and community groups with counterparts in Arctic nations, fostering knowledge exchange and mutual learning. Projects ranged from creative initiatives such as intercultural storytelling, printmaking, and youth-led game design to research on climate change, food sovereignty, and sustainable tourism. Many projects delivered tangible outputs, including educational resources, workshops, exhibitions, and digital platforms, while others acted as catalysts for securing significant follow-on funding and establishing long-term partnerships. The majority of projects met or exceeded their objectives, contributing to Scotland’s international profile and strengthening networks in areas like renewable energy, indigenous knowledge, and cultural heritage. Annex 2 provides an exhaustive breakdown of project outputs.