Young BRICS researchers explore Arctic tourism, indigenous heritage at Ugra Conference
Moscow, July 24
Young researchers, academics and policy experts from BRICS countries gathered in Russia's Khanty-Mansiysk for the International Scientific and Practical Conference "Youth Arctic: Science for the Future", where discussions focused on sustainable Arctic tourism, environmental conservation and preserving the region's cultural heritage.
TV BRICS served as the international information partner of the event.
Held for the third consecutive year in Ugra, the conference was organised by the Russian-Asian Arctic Research Consortium with support from the Russia-BRICS Project Office for International Youth Cooperation. This year's edition placed special emphasis on expanding collaboration among BRICS nations in areas including ecology, logistics, energy, tourism and responsible development of Arctic resources.
Speaking to TV BRICS, Roman Kuchin, Co-Chairman of the consortium and Rector of Ugra State University, said universities and research institutions from China had already joined the consortium, while representatives from India were also participating. He said expanding cooperation with Asian partners enables researchers to study Arctic issues from diverse perspectives and strengthens scientific collaboration.
A major focus of the conference was safeguarding the traditions and cultural identity of Indigenous communities living across the Arctic. Ugra, home to 139 ethnic groups, showcased initiatives aimed at improving opportunities for young people in remote settlements.
Among them was the "IT Nomadic Camp" project, which uses broadband internet connectivity to expand access to education, communication and cultural participation for residents of isolated communities. According to organisers, the initiative has encouraged greater social engagement while helping preserve native languages through online communities.
The conference also featured the International Youth Tourism Project Competition "DobroArktika", where students proposed sustainable tourism initiatives for Russia's Arctic zone. Winning projects focused on ecological, ethnographic and event tourism, along with improving natural sites and accessible infrastructure.
One highlighted initiative, "CHUMbuilding", offers visitors hands-on experiences with Indigenous traditions by introducing them to traditional dwellings, crafts, rituals and local culture.
Chinese researcher Yang Nan of Qingdao University said her understanding of the Arctic had shifted from policy and energy issues to prioritising people, tourism and environmental protection.
The conference formed part of the All-Russian Civil Society Development Forum "Dobrino", which attracted more than 500 participants.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While this is interesting, I hope our government is also focusing on practical aspects rather than just sending researchers abroad for conferences. We have our own Arctic research station in Svalbard, and our scientists should be leading, not just participating. The indigenous focus is commendable though – our own Adivasi communities could benefit from similar digital inclusion projects. But let's not forget the geopolitical angle: Arctic is strategic for India's interests too.
Amazing collaboration! BRICS is proving its worth beyond just economics. The "CHUMbuilding" project sounds fascinating – offering hands-on experience with indigenous crafts and traditions is exactly the kind of sustainable tourism we need. We have 705 tribes in India with unique cultures; imagine if we had similar programs in Bastar or the Andamans. Tourism that respects local heritage instead of destroying it. 👏
Interesting to see BRICS youth focusing on Arctic issues. From a Western perspective, we often view Arctic development through a security lens, but environmental and cultural aspects are equally important. The Chinese researcher's shift in understanding from energy to people and tourism is noteworthy. However, I hope Russia is transparent about environmental impacts – the Arctic is fragile. Good initiative overall.
The IT Nomadic Camp is brilliant! 🎯 We keep talking about digital divide in India, but here's a real solution. Using broadband to preserve native languages through online communities – that's innovative. Ugra has 139 ethnic groups, India has hundreds more. If Russia can do this in the Arctic, why can't we replicate it in our remote areas? Also, India should send more women researchers to such platforms. Representation matters!
R We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.