Jonathan Crossen

Jonathan Crossen is an Associate Professor at the Center for Sami Studies, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, where he serves as Academic Coordinator for the GENI master's programme. Based in Tromsø, his work bridges historical research with contemporary indigenous issues across multiple continents.

Crossen earned his PhD in History from the University of Waterloo (Canada), establishing his scholarly foundation in historical analysis of indigenous movements. His academic trajectory includes postdoctoral research at Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena with the Fritz Thyssen Foundation's work group on human rights.

Dr. Crossen's research centers on Indigenous Internationalism, examining transnational networks connecting indigenous peoples globally. His work particularly explores the connections between Sámi activism in Scandinavia and indigenous movements in North America, analyzing how these relationships have evolved historically and function in contemporary political contexts. He investigates the strategic use of international forums by indigenous peoples while maintaining cultural sovereignty, and examines the role of key figures like Marie Smallface-Marule in shaping global indigenous movements. His scholarship spans historical, political, and educational dimensions of indigenous studies, with particular attention to decolonization processes and the geopolitical dimensions of Arctic indigenous politics.

Analysis of Crossen's publications reveals consistent scholarly engagement with the historical development of indigenous internationalism, with particular emphasis on how indigenous activism operates across multiple levels - from grassroots protests to formal international organizations. His work demonstrates how indigenous peoples strategically navigate international legal frameworks while simultaneously maintaining local cultural practices and resistance. A recurring theme is the examination of how personal relationships and cultural exchanges strengthen transnational indigenous solidarity beyond formal organizational structures.

• Member of ConGender research group
• Member of Global Research in Indigenous Studies and History (GRISH)
• Member of Center for Arctic Humanities
• Member of Environmental Humanities research group

Dr. Crossen has made significant contributions to documenting the life and work of Marie Smallface-Marule, a key figure in indigenous internationalism. His research on cases like Niillas Somby's activism demonstrates how indigenous internationalism operates through personal networks and cultural exchanges that strengthen indigenous identities across borders, challenging conventional understandings limited to formal organizations.

Crossen collaborates with numerous scholars including Julia Clarin, Ana I. Vargas, Turner Jennings, Samuel D. Salinas, Reza Amini, Yustianto Tjiptowidjojo, Emmy Stavøstrand Neuls, and Mathilde Becker Aarseth. His interdisciplinary approach bridges history, political science, education, and cultural studies to examine indigenous issues from multiple perspectives.