Leading decision-makers, business representatives, experts and researchers from across the Nordic region will gather at Oscarsborg Fortress on 1-2 October 2026 for the second annual Oscarsborg Symposium on Nordic Security, hosted by the Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO).
This year’s symposium will examine how governments and private businesses can work together to strengthen defence and societal preparedness in an increasingly uncertain security environment. Drawing on experiences from across the Nordic region, discussions will explore whether closer cooperation between countries and sectors can help improve resilience and preparedness in times of actual crisis.
“Nordic interdependence is deep and PRIO has a long tradition for cooperation across the region. Together with the Sat Sapienti Foundation, we want to use the symposium to create dialogue across borders and sectors. Its aim is to broaden the understanding of different interests and perspectives, and facilitate better cooperation. Research is key to this effort, contributing both insights and pedagogical approaches that can strengthen meaningful dialogue,” says PRIO Senior Researcher and organizer of the conference, Louise Olsson.
Understanding war, shaping peace
Against the backdrop of a deteriorating geopolitical environment in the Nordic region, the conference will examine how governments and businesses can work together to ensure resilience, continuity of critical services and effective defense and preparedness.
Discussions will compare different Nordic approaches to business-state cooperation, and consider how these affect both security outcomes and business opportunities in an emerging security economy.
A key focus of the symposium will be understanding how different Nordic countries organise cooperation with businesses in defence and preparedness. While private companies play an essential role in maintaining critical services and supporting national resilience, countries have adopted different approaches to issues such as contingency planning, stockpiling, supply-chain security and expectations for business participation during crises.
Participants will also examine how businesses themselves are adapting to a changing security landscape. Across the Nordic region, companies are increasingly assessing both the risks and opportunities created by geopolitical uncertainty, while governments are developing new forums, partnerships and policies to strengthen cooperation with the private sector.
The symposium aims to strengthen networks and understanding across the Nordics, funded by the Sat Sapienti Foundation and building on research at PRIO. It is by invitation only under Chatham House Rule. A PRIO Commentary will be shared after the symposium, highlighting key points.
Click on the link for more information on the Oscarsborg Symposium on Nordic Security.
