Partners

The Norwegian Centre for Geopolitics is a research collaboration between five leading research environments in Norway: the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) (lead), the Fridtjof Nansen Institute (FNI), the Norwegian Institute for Defence Studies (IFS), the University of Oslo (UiO) as the education partner, and UiT The Arctic University of Norway as the Arctic partner.

Published: April 7, 2025

The Centre aims to strengthen Norwegian research on the causes and consequences of geopolitical competition and rivalry, with a particular focus on China's growth and international role. For example, what does increased rivalry between the United States and China mean for Norwegian foreign investments, for security in the Arctic, or for the future of the multilateral system? The Centre also examines how new alliances are emerging—such as the BRICS+ cooperation—and how economic and technological collaboration is becoming part of political rivalry. The research will explore such questions across different issue areas, including security, trade and investment, energy, and development aid, and across different regions. The Centre will deliver high-quality academic research and carry out targeted dissemination of research and analysis to decision-makers in both the public and private sectors, Norwegian organizations, and the broader public through regular seminars, op-eds, media appearances, and podcasts. The Centre will also invest in long-term capacity building through the establishment of new university courses.

The Norwegian Institute of International Affairs:

The Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) is a leading research institute on international politics and global governance. We conduct independent, cutting-edge research and communicate research-based knowledge to academics, policy practitioners, and the general public. NUPI’s activities are funded by Norwegian and international organisations, including the Research Council of Norway, the European Union, and various government ministries. Established by the Norwegian Parliament in 1959, NUPI operates as a government agency with special authorisation under the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research.

The Norwegian Institute for Defence Studies:

The Norwegian Institute for Defence Studies (IFS) is a leading research environment in security and defence policy, conducting academically free and independent research on issues affecting international and Norwegian security and strategy. This includes developments in Russia and the High North, security cooperation in NATO and Northern Europe, shifts in global power distribution, threats, and technology. The Norwegian Institute for Defence Studies is part of the Norwegian Defence University College.

The Fridtjof Nansen Institute:

The Fridtjof Nansen Institute (FNI) is an independent foundation engaged in research on international environmental, energy and resource management politics and law. FNI's sources of funding include the Research Council of Norway, various Norwegian public bodies, business associations and private companies, the European Commission and international research foundations. FNI is the research arm of The Fridtjof Nansen Foundation at Polhøgda, established in 1958.

The University of Oslo:

The University of Oslo (UiO) is a leading European university. As Norway’s oldest of its kind, UiO has been engaged in education, research, innovation, and dissemination since 1811. The university aims to promote independent, ground-breaking, and long-term research; to educate students with the knowledge, ability, and determination to create a better world; to strengthen dialogue with society; to work towards putting knowledge to use; and to be an innovative organization and an attractive place to work and study.

UiT The Arctic University of Norway:

UiT The Arctic University of Norway is a medium-sized research university that contributes to knowledge-based development at the regional, national and international level. We aim to leverage our central location in the High North, our academic breadth and quality, and our interdisciplinary strengths to meet future challenges. UiT The Arctic University of Norway is the leading institution in polar and High North research in Norway, with 130 full-time equivalents dedicated to polar research.

The Board

The Norwegian Centre for Geopolitics Board consists of the following representatives from the partner institutions:

Ole Jacob Sending (NUPI, Centre Director)
Wrenn Yennie Lindgren (NUPI)
Morten S. Andersen (NUPI)
Gørild Heggelund (FNI)
Henrik Stålhane Hiim (IFS)
Heidi Østbø Haugen (IKOS, University of Oslo)
Alf Håkon Hoel (UiT – The Arctic University of Norway)