Photo: Embassy of Finland
Finland’s Ambassador Mikael Antell highlights in particular Retter’s work during the Finnish Chairmanship of the Arctic Council from 2017-2019, where Retter was an important voice for the Sámi people, and the Arctic cooperation.
It was very unexpected to be awarded like this. I feel deeply honored and humbled. I see the award as an expression of gratitude for the good cooperation, particularly related to the Arctic Council, which I think both Finland and the Saami Council wish should succeed as an arena for cooperation in the Arctic, says Retter about the award.
Retter has worked with Arctic issues for 20 years, and has built up a unique competence and broad network. The Saami Council is grateful and proud to have Retter as an employee, and we are grateful that she has chosen to let the Saami Council benefit from her broad competence and enormous work capacity. Over the years, she has become an integral part of the Arctic co-operation, but also in the international indigenous network and especially in climate and environmental issues. She is also generous in sharing her experiences and expertise with others, and acts as a mentor for several new and younger employees. We hope that this award will help motivate her to continue her important work and commitment for decades to come.
Source: Saami Council
