Attracting and Retaining International Talent in the Nordic Arctic

The Arctic regions in Finland and Norway face a significant demographic challenge, marked by declining youth and working-age populations and an increasing elderly demographic, trends projected to continue until at least 2060. This demographic shift poses a considerable strain on society and threatens economic growth. To address this demographic decline, attracting and retaining highly skilled migrants, particularly international university graduates, is crucial. Universities in the Arctic, such as the University of Oulu and University of Lapland in Finland and Nord University in Norway, play a crucial role in mitigating this challenge by attracting, retaining, and integrating young talents into the Arctic workforce.

National higher education strategies in both Finland and Norway, while emphasizing internationalisation, often adopt a top-down approach that may not adequately address the specific needs of their Arctic in their local regions. The introduction of tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students in Finland in 2016 and Norway in 2023 raises concerns about hindering recruitment and leading to brain drain.

National higher education strategies need to be regionally adaptive, considering Arctic demographics, local labour markets and cultural contexts. Re-evaluating tuition fees or offering redemption for graduates staying in the Arctic region could also incentivise retention. Educational offerings for international talent should include support services for integration to host country and employability pathways after graduation.