Arendalsuka 2024 – Norway’s Festival of Democracy

Introduction

Arendalsuka, Norway’s largest annual political gathering, took place this year from 12 to 16 August 2024. This unique event, attracting participants from all over the world, serves as a platform for open debates, exchange of ideas, and discussions on the most pressing issues of our time. Since its inception in 2012, Arendalsuka has become a symbol of democracy, civic engagement, and collaboration for a better future. Every year, the festival gathers politicians, representatives of NGOs, scholars, entrepreneurs, and citizens who come together to address key challenges facing global society.

The Polish Delegation at Arendalsuka 2024

This year’s edition of Arendalsuka held special significance for Poland, as a Polish delegation visited Arendal from 11 to 14 August. The delegation included representatives from cities such as Ostrów Wielkopolski, Jarocin, Konin, Przemyśl, Łomża, Cieszyn, and Hrubieszów, as well as members of the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy. The visit was part of bilateral cooperation between Poland and Norway, organized by the Association of Polish Cities. The delegation was invited by The Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities (KS), which represents all local governments in Norway and is the largest public sector employer in the country.

Festival Inauguration and Activities of the Polish Delegation

On 12 August 2024, the Polish delegation had the honour of attending the official festival inauguration, which was held in the presence of several hundred invited guests from around the world. The ceremony was opened by Masud Gharahkhani, the President of the Norwegian Parliament (Stortingspresident), with speeches also given by Harald Stanghelle, leader of the main Arendalsuka programme, and Robert C. Nordli, Mayor of Arendal. In their speeches, they emphasized the importance of democracy, open dialogue, and civic engagement in the face of contemporary global challenges.

During the street event accompanying the festival’s inauguration, the Polish delegation had the opportunity to promote Poland and its cities. Representatives from the cities and the ministry set up a booth showcasing Poland’s rich tourism, cultural, and economic offerings. Together with their Norwegian partners from KS, they organized quizzes and educational games with prizes for children and youth. This initiative was enthusiastically received by festival participants, making the Polish tent one of the most popular spots at Arendalsuka.

Key Themes Addressed at Arendalsuka 2024

Arendalsuka 2024 was a venue for addressing crucial global issues that are significant not only for Norway but for the entire world. Over the course of the five-day festival, more than 200 lectures, panel discussions, workshops, and meetings with experts from various fields took place. Key themes included:

• Climate Change and Sustainable Development: In the face of growing challenges related to the climate crisis, many discussions focused on strategies for sustainable development. Experts, politicians, and environmental activists discussed ways to combat climate change, promoting green technologies and environmental protection policies.

• International Security: Global threats such as cybersecurity, terrorism, and geopolitical tensions were the subject of numerous debates. Participants discussed challenges related to ensuring international security and the role of cooperation between nations in addressing these threats.

• Education and Innovation: The future of education in the digital age was another important festival topic. Discussions focused on the role of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, in education and the need to adapt educational systems to the changing demands of the labour market.

• Human Rights: The protection of human rights, equality, and social justice were central to many panel discussions. The necessity of global solidarity in defending human rights and the importance of diplomacy in promoting them was emphasized.

Ambassadors' Round Table Discussions

One of the most important events on the festival’s second day was the Ambassadors' Round Table Discussions. This meeting brought together diplomats from various countries to jointly discuss global challenges and prospects for international cooperation. Topics addressed during the discussions included:

• Climate Change: Ambassadors discussed strategies for combating climate change and the need for closer international cooperation in this area.

• International Security: The conversation covered threats related to cybersecurity, terrorism, and armed conflicts, as well as joint actions for peace and stability.

• International Trade: Debates revolved around trade agreements, tariff barriers, and opportunities for closer economic cooperation between countries.

• Human Rights: In this context, the significance of diplomacy and international cooperation in promoting and protecting human rights globally was discussed.

The Significance of Arendalsuka 2024 for Strengthening Democracy

Arendalsuka 2024 was not only a place for debating the most important issues of the modern world but also a festival that conveyed many important messages. The key ideas highlighted at this year’s edition included:

• Strengthening Democracy: The festival promoted open debate and civic engagement as the foundations of a healthy democracy. Participants emphasized the importance of active public participation in democratic processes.

• Sustainable Development: The necessity of taking action to protect the environment and promote sustainable development that considers the needs of future generations was underscored.

• International Cooperation: In the face of global challenges such as climate change or security threats, cooperation between countries plays a crucial role. Arendalsuka was a place where bridges between nations were built.

• Education and Innovation: The future of education and the role of technological innovation were topics shaping many discussions. Innovation is essential for economic and social development.

• Human Rights: The protection of human rights and the fight for equality and social justice were central to the festival. The need for global solidarity in defending fundamental human values was emphasized.

• Youth Engagement: The festival encouraged young people to actively participate in social and political life, which is key to the future of democracy.

This festival, a true celebration of democracy, once again highlighted the importance of open discussion and dialogue in the face of contemporary challenges. Topics such as climate change, international security, education, innovation, and human rights were discussed in a global context, showing that these problems know no borders and require a collective, coordinated response.

The presence of the Polish delegation at Arendalsuka 2024 was a testament to the growing cooperation between Poland and Norway and demonstrated that such events provide an excellent opportunity to forge new contacts and strengthen existing ties. Joint activities by Poles and Norwegians, such as organizing booths promoting Poland, quizzes and games for children, and participation in panel discussions, contributed to mutual understanding and the strengthening of relations between the two countries.