Since its establishment in 2012, Arendalsuka has become a symbol of democracy, social engagement and collaboration for a better future. Every year, the festival brings together politicians, NGO representatives, academics, entrepreneurs and citizens to address key challenges affecting the global society.

Polish delegation to Arendalsuka 2024

This year's edition of Arendalsuka had a special significance for Poland, as a Polish delegation visited Arendal from 11 to 14 of August, as part of the continuation of bilateral cooperation from Bilateral Initiative 2024-25. This delegation included representatives of cities such as Ostrów Wielkopolski, Jarocin, Konin, Przemyśl, Łomża, Cieszyn and Hrubieszów, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy. The visit of the Polish delegation was part of the bilateral cooperation between Poland and Norway, and its organisation was supervised by representatives of the Association of Polish Cities. The delegation came at the invitation of The Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities (KS), an organisation which brings together all local governments in Norway and is the largest public employer in the country.

Inauguration of the Festival and activities of the Polish delegation

On August 12, the Polish delegation had the honour of participating in the inauguration ceremony of the festival, which was attended by several hundred invited guests from all over the world. The ceremony was opened by Masud Gharahkhani, President of the Norwegian Parliament (Stortingspresident), and speakers included Harald Stanghelle, leader of the Arendalsuka main programme, and Robert C. Nordli, Mayor of Arendal. In their speeches, they emphasised the importance of democracy, open dialogue and civic engagement in the face of the current challenges in the modern world.

During the street event that accompanied the inauguration of the festival, the Polish delegation had the opportunity to promote Poland and Polish cities. Representatives of the cities and the Ministry organised a stand where they presented Poland's rich tourist, cultural and economic offer. Together with their Norwegian partners from KS, they also provided quizzes and educational games with prizes for children and youth. This initiative was enthusiastically received by festival participants, and the Polish tent became one of the more popular spots on the Arendalsuka map.

Key topics covered at Arendalsuka 2024

Arendalsuka 2024 was the venue for key global topics that are relevant not only to Norway, but to the world as a whole. Over the five days of the festival, there were more than 200 lectures, panel discussions, workshops and meetings with experts from various fields. Key topics included:

• Climate Change and Sustainability: With the growing challenges of the climate crisis, much discussion was devoted to strategies for sustainable development. Experts, politicians and environmental activists discussed ways to mitigate climate change, promoting green technologies and environmental policies.

• International Security: Global threats such as cyber security, terrorism and geopolitical tensions were the subject of numerous debates. Participants discussed the challenges of ensuring security at an international level and the role of cooperation between states in the face of these threats.

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

• Human Rights: The protection of human rights, equality and social justice were topics that played a central role during many panel discussions. The need for global solidarity in protection of human rights and the importance of diplomacy in promoting them were emphasised.

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.