Digitisation project reconnects Russia with its Arctic voices

The article discusses a digitisation project aimed at preserving thousands of tape recordings from Russia's Arctic north, dating back to as early as 1890. These recordings, which include voices, stories, songs, and folklore, were collected by Soviet ethnographers and are currently stored at St. Petersburg’s Pushkin House. The University of Aberdeen, led by Professor David Anderson, has secured funding to digitize these recordings, which are at risk of disintegration due to age. The project involves using specialist equipment to convert the tapes into digital formats while removing background distortions. The recordings are significant for the descendants of the original speakers and for the cultural history of the communities that were affected by Soviet-era resettlement policies. The article highlights the importance of continually updating digital archives to ensure long-term preservation.

Scotland's Diplomatic Efforts and Independence Ambitions

The article by David Mac Dougall discusses the Scottish National Party's (SNP) diplomatic efforts and plans for a new independence referendum in 2023. Nicola Sturgeon's SNP has seen an increase in diplomatic outreach, engaging with foreign diplomats and leaders, particularly during the COP26 summit. Angus Robertson, Cabinet Secretary for External Affairs, emphasizes Scotland's readiness for business and recovery from COVID-19. Despite a lack of overwhelming public support for independence, the SNP is preparing for the referendum and aims to convince undecided voters. The Scottish government is also expanding its international presence with upgraded Scotland House offices in Copenhagen and a new mission in Warsaw. European perceptions of Scotland have shifted post-Brexit, with EU leaders quietly acknowledging Scotland's pro-EU stance. The article also touches on Scotland's broader approach to international affairs, including relations with the US, China, Canada, India, and Pakistan, and its role in the Arctic policy.

Poland and Lithuania say Belarus is intentionally sending migrants their way. Now there are fears Russia could do the same to Finland.

The article discusses the political situation in Finland where the government faces a no-confidence vote over security concerns at the border with Russia. Opposition parties, led by Kokoomus, accuse Prime Minister Sanna Marin's coalition of not securing the border against potential 'hybrid tactics' by Russia, such as using migrants as a political tool. The article references past events in 2016 when Russia allegedly facilitated migrants to claim asylum in Finland as a form of hybrid attack. The opposition is calling for legislation to temporarily close borders, even to asylum seekers, and possibly building a border fence, though this is seen as impractical by some officials. The Finnish government and previous administrations have been criticized for not being prepared for such hybrid threats, despite hosting the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats in Helsinki.

Greenlanders in Denmark to get news in their own language with new radio station

The article by David Mac Dougall discusses the initiative to create a new radio station funded by the Danish government to deliver content in Greenlandic for the Greenlandic community living in Denmark. The service aims to provide relevant local news and information, considering the four-hour time difference and language barriers that make current broadcasts from Greenland's public broadcaster less accessible. Spearheaded by Greenlandic politician Aki-Matilda Høegh Damm, the project's format is yet to be decided. The article also touches on the socio-economic challenges faced by Greenlanders in Denmark, including stereotypes and a lack of education among Danes about Greenlandic culture. Camilla Siezing, President of Fællesforeningen Inuit, highlights the importance of the new service for the community, especially during the pandemic.