Reindeer Husbandry and Barents 2030

VOICES OF HERDERS AND INDIGENOUS LEADERS

JOHAN MATHIS TURI REINDEER HERDER AND SECRETARY GENERAL OF ASSOCIATION OF WORLD REINDEER HERDERS

Philip Burgess

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...Even though it can severely disrupt the livelihoods of reindeer herders, oil and gas development may not be the worst that can happen to reindeer husbandry: In con- trast to other alternative sources for energy supply that affect our animals, such as windmills and smaller hydro- electric power plants, oil and gas development will often prove to be very profitable. This means that there is at least a financial foundation for positive development of also reindeer herding societies. There is a saying that “the tide lifts all boats”. The de- velopment of the Arctic as the new energy region of the north truly represents a “tidal wave” for the indigenous peoples of the north. I believe the tide will lift all boats, that is to say, all boats that float. When the wave is com-

ing, it is important to also fix the small indigenous boats – not only so that they can ride safely on the flood, but also so that they can settle safely on the shore once the water ebbs away. Reindeer husbandry represents a circumpolar model for management of the barren Arctic areas, areas which have only recently become interesting for other interests such as the oil and gas industry. The petroleum age is just a snapshot in the history of the North. Reindeer hus- bandry has been an important livelihood for people in these areas from time immemorial, and must continue to exist also after the oil and gas have been exploited. To this end, local capacity building in indigenous reindeer herding societies is essential.

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