The overall theme of the UArctic Congress 2026 is Healthy Humans and Oceans in the Arctic. Its five subthemes align with the Chairship priorities, emphasizing an inclusive approach to sustainable development, Indigenous engagement, and holistic ecosystem management.
These five themes are now open for session proposals.
Theme 1: Sustainable Economic Development and International Cooperation
Sustainable economic growth and stable political environments are central to thriving Arctic societies. This theme covers sustainable resource management, community-led economic initiatives, energy transition strategies, green technologies, renewable energy, sustainable Arctic connectivity, circular economies, and innovation. Sessions under this theme may explore governance and regulatory frameworks that promote equitable economic empowerment, innovative sustainable practices, international relations, Arctic governance, and geopolitical stability.
Theme 2: Oceans
This theme focuses on marine biodiversity conservation, ocean circulation, Arctic-Subarctic shipping, emergency preparedness, marine pollutant on ecosystems impacts (including underwater noise and marine litter). Other key topics include sustainable marine resource management, spatial planning, and conservation strategies.
Theme 3: Climate Change in the Arctic
Sessions in this theme will address monitoring climate-related changes in the Arctic as well as adaptation and mitigation strategies, black carbon and methane emissions reduction, natural disasters, resilience-building in Arctic ecosystems and communities, and approaches that strengthen climate resilience and safety.
Theme 4: Biodiversity
This theme emphasizes collaboration to monitor and assess Arctic biodiversity. It addresses biodiversity loss, ecosystem management, invasive species, and integration of scientific and Indigenous Knowledge to support biodiversity governance.
Theme 5: Indigenous Peoples and Northern Communities
This theme prioritizes the participation and empowerment of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. Topics include Indigenous rights and self-determination, inclusion of Traditional/Indigenous Knowledge, public health, medical preparedness and supply chains, mental and social well-being, gender equality, diversity and inclusion, youth engagement, sustainable community development, cultural heritage preservation, and contemporary cultural and artistic expressions in the region.
Interested in proposing a session for the UArctic Congress 2026? Read the full call and start preparing your proposal! The deadline for submissions is July 7, 2025.
The UArctic Congress is a biennial event that brings together a science conference and key UArctic meetings into a single gathering. With the aim to foster contacts and enhance networking, the UArctic Congress brings together institutional leaders, Indigenous representatives, academics, scientists, and students from around the Circumpolar North and beyond. Together with partners, policy makers, and other actors, the Congress strives to take the Arctic agenda forward by creating and strengthening collaborations that produce new findings and solutions for the future of the Arctic region.
The UArctic Congress 2026 is hosted by the University of the Faroe Islands in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Industry and Trade, and the Faroe Marine Research Institute.
In addition to high-level plenary and parallel sessions, the Congress also includes the UArctic Assembly and Rectors meetings, as well as networking and social events. It is therefore an excellent platform for all UArctic members to engage with each other, establish new connections, and promote cooperation in circumpolar research and higher education.
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