The research network for Sámi and Indigenous peoples law (NORSIL)

Coordinator: Christina Allard, Professor of Law, Luleå University of Technology,

About the network

Reindeer herd, some animals closer to the camera. A human in black clothes and red cap, from the behind with a yellow and a red rope. — Photo: Matti Blind Berg

NORSIL is a Nordic, transdisciplinary research network focused on Sámi law, rights, and sustainability, with particular attention to reindeer herding as both a property right and a cornerstone of Sámi culture and traditional knowledge (árbediehtu). It supports legal and social science research across Norway, Sweden, and Finland, while fostering collaboration among Nordic, Sámi, and international scholars, with strong support for PhD students and early-career researchers.

Group photo of the network members, indoors in classroom. Thirteen people in full figure, smiling to the camera. — Photo: Private

Between 2025–2027, it will focus on comparative legal studies in Sápmi, the role of traditional knowledge in (social) sustainability, and the development of just policies for Sápmi – the traditional Sámi territory of the Scandinavian North. Its expanded scope now includes broader policy and governance issues, responding to current challenges such as land-use conflicts and human rights protections highlighted in landmark court cases like Fosen (Norway) and Girjas (Sweden).

NORSIL will address the consequences – and possible solutions – of rapid land use change because of industrialization and infrastructure projects as well as effects on climate change on Sámi reindeer herding. It will do so by encouraging and enhancing Nordic collaboration and comparison though its network activities (annual seminars) and final policy recommendations to decision-makers in the three countries.