The European Commission has decided to designate Jyrki Katainen as Special Adviser for the EU-Arctic relations. In this capacity, he will report to Commissioner for International Partnerships Síkela and will support the Commission in enhancing its strategic presence and effectiveness in the Arctic region.
In the current geopolitical and geoeconomic context, the strategic importance of the Arctic region for the EU is clear, with challenges and opportunities that EU policies should address. This designation underlines the Commission's strong commitment to reinforcing the EU's strategic engagement in the Arctic, as confirmed by President Ursula von der Leyen at the in January 2026. On such occasion, the President announced an upcoming revision of the EU's Arctic strategy, in close alignment with the broader European security framework.
Drawing from his extensive political and policy expertise, Mr Katainen will provide advice on the implementation of the EU's Arctic priorities, including economic security, connectivity, sustainable development, and climate and energy. He will also contribute to the preparation of the updated EU Arctic policy. He will work closely with the Commission services, as well as with the EEAS, Member States, Arctic partners, and relevant stakeholders, the Commission's Representation in Denmark, Finland, Sweden and the EU office in Nuuk.
Jyrki Katainen, a Finnish national, served as Vice-President of the European Commission responsible for Jobs, Growth, Investment and Competitiveness from 2014 to 2019. Prior to his work at European level, he was Prime Minister of Finland from 2011 to 2014, as well as Minister of Finance from 2007 to 2011. He was also a Member of the Finnish Parliament from 1999 to 2014.
