TriArc

The aims of the research project

The aims of the research project The Arctic governance triangle: government, Indigenous peoples and industry in change (TriArc) are to examine how large development projects like mining, production of electric power, and aquaculture challenge traditional resource use and management, and the types of governance arrangements established to regulate the relationship between traditional land use and large industrial development.

Regional, national and international

The project includes a significant comparative component assessing the countries in the circumpolar area –  Canada, Finland, Norway, Russia, and Sweden –  as well as drawing upon Australian experiences where Indigenous peoples have experience with new projects on resource development. By comparing regions and nation states, the purpose is to clarify which conditions frame these processes; both regional and national, and elements at the international level (companies and international regulations).

Decentralized governance?

State, marked, and civil society are core components of the theoretical framework. The concepts of governability, accountability and legitimacy are central to the discussion about interaction and potential governance between actors within these sectors of society. How is the Indigenous involvement in processes of resource development informed by international and national political and legal realities, the behavior of various corporative actors, and Indigenous peoples’ own institutions? To what extent can we identify forms of governance that promote Indigenous engagement with resource development and management? TriArc will examine to what extent decentralized governance contribute to more appropriate, effective and legitimate governance solutions promoting Indigenous engagement in resource governance systems.