The future sustainable governance of Sámi reindeer husbandry will face major challenges related to rapid change in the Arctic. Sámi reindeer husbandry represents a livelihood and way of life based on practices and knowledge developed through long-term experiences in living under harsh and highly variable conditions in the Arctic environment. This research project is based on and according to goals and strategies set by Sami University of Applied Science and will provide a knowledge base for a future Master’s degree Programme in Reindeer Husbandry Studies using a multidisciplinary approach.

The project will research traditional cultural capabilities in Sámi reindeer husbandry and the opportunities embedded in traditional knowledge and scientific knowledge with a focus on adaptation to change and reconciliation, and will attempt to explain the tensions between the two interlinked spheres of knowledge involving different approaches to basic aspects of reindeer husbandry and herding.

RIEVDAN hopes to contribute to new knowledge and understanding in order to increase sustainability in reindeer husbandry and herding, and finally strengthen the reconciliation between the interlinked and conflicted spheres of knowledge.