Description

The development of a structure for improved international coordination of Arctic oceanography, such as an Arctic GOOS (Global Ocean Observing System) Regional Alliance (GRA), has been recommended in various fora in recent years, including during the development of the Arctic Action Plan for the UN Ocean Decade and at various editions of the Arctic Observing Summit (most recently in 2022). A concept and framework for a Sustained Arctic Ocean Observing System was also developed in detail by Lee et al. (2019).

A Task Team was formed in February 2023 to lead a process that results in an Arctic GRA or similarly structured organisation being designed and realised. This process includes engagement of a diverse range of stakeholders and rights holders, including representatives of Arctic Indigenous and Local communities and organisations. The Task Team and the process it co-develops are formally recognised by both Sustaining Arctic Observing Networks (SAON) and the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS). The Task Team has adopted the name ‘Arctic Ocean Regional Alliance’ (ArORA) as a working title for the future regional alliance.

Goals

The Task Team currently works on a proposed design for ArORA that unites the diversity of sustained ocean observing initiatives in the Arctic through a single entity or structure. The future system will span the whole ocean observing value chain, from observations to benefits for users, and include all sustained ocean and sea ice observing activities in the Arctic (research, operational oceanography, monitoring, community-based monitoring, etc.). 

The proposed design of ArORA will be inclusive of the needs of different rights holders, stakeholders and actors, including Arctic Indigenous Peoples and coastal communities.

Governance

The Task Team is open to all, with members serving on a voluntary basis. Task Team members should be willing to represent the needs of broad cross-sections of the Arctic community. The Task Team has two Co-Chairs, who lead its activities, and a Coordinator, who supports the Task Team activities in close collaboration with the Co-Chairs. A Steering Group, drawn from the Task Team members, works to coordinate the activity toward completion of the objectives stated above.

Individuals wishing to join the Task Team should indicate interest by self-nomination, please contact the Co-Chair or coordinator.

Associated Organizations

Others