Anne-Grete Strøm-Erichsen is a distinguished Norwegian stateswoman, visionary leader, and strategic policymaker with an extensive career spanning national governance, international diplomacy, and the private sector. With a profound dedication to public service, she has played a pivotal role in shaping Norway’s defense, healthcare, and foreign policy landscapes, leaving an indelible mark on both domestic and global affairs.

Ms. Strøm-Erichsen served as Norway’s Minister of Defence (2005-2009, 2012-2013) and Minister of Health and Care Services (2009-2012) in Jens Stoltenberg’s second government, overseeing critical policy advancements in national security and public health. As a two-term Member of Parliament for the Labour Party (2005-2013), she was a driving force in shaping Norway’s strategic priorities, demonstrating exceptional leadership in navigating complex geopolitical and social challenges.

Her political career extends beyond the national stage; she served as Mayor and Chief Commissioner of Bergen (1999-2003) and was a member of the City Council for nearly two decades (1987-2005). Her transformative leadership in Bergen set new standards for urban governance, economic development, and cultural preservation, earning her a global reputation as an advocate for sustainable city management.

Internationally, Ms. Strøm-Erichsen has been a respected voice in NATO, the European Union, and the World Health Organization (WHO), where she has championed strategic defense cooperation, global health initiatives, and transnational policy development. Her role as Chair of the Board for West Norway’s Brussels Office further underscored her influence in fostering strong ties between Norway and key European institutions. Additionally, she has contributed to global governance as a Council of Europe representative for local authorities and as President of the Organization of World Heritage Cities, advocating for cultural heritage preservation on an international scale.

Before transitioning to full-time politics in 1995, Ms. Strøm-Erichsen amassed two decades of experience in the IT industry, working in both the public and private sectors. This technological acumen has continued to inform her work in digital governance, cybersecurity, and innovation policy.

From 2014-2016, she served as Managing Partner at Rud Pedersen Public Affairs Norway, a leading Northern European consultancy specializing in public affairs and strategic advisory. She continues to provide counsel as a senior advisor, leveraging her extensive expertise in governance, security, and diplomacy.

Ms. Strøm-Erichsen holds several prominent board positions, shaping policy and strategy in key sectors. She is the Chair of the Board of Tankesmien Agenda, a premier Norwegian think tank dedicated to center-left policy analysis and development, and Chair of the Board of the Norwegian Atlantic Committee (DNAK), which fosters informed debate on Norwegian foreign, security, and defense policy. Her leadership extends into the technology and defense industries, where she serves as Chair of the Board of Dips ASA, a Norwegian software company, and as a Board Member of Kongsberg Gruppen, a globally recognized provider of high-tech solutions for defense, aerospace, and maritime industries.

As a key member of The North World Approach, Ms. Strøm-Erichsen brings an unparalleled depth of experience in defense strategy, international cooperation, and policy innovation. Her insights into security, governance, and sustainable development will be instrumental in shaping a governance framework that ensures stability, cooperation, and resilience in the Arctic region. With a career defined by transformative leadership and a relentless commitment to progress, Ms. Strøm-Erichsen stands at the forefront of global efforts to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the Arctic’s evolving geopolitical landscape.

Ms. Strøm-Erichsen is an Honorary Senior Advisor of the Institute.