This event will bring together key representatives from research institutions, government agencies, and the broader policy community to discuss strategic priorities for European polar science. A central focus will be on the upcoming International Polar Year (IPY) and the UN Decade of the Cryosphere, as well as the evolving role of the European Polar Board (EPB) and the newly established European Polar Coordination Office.
Participation is by invitation only. Information about registration has been sent out seperately.
This event will take place on 7 May between 13:00 and 16:00, with a reception in the evening.
13:00 Welcoming remarks
Marie-Louise Rönnmark, Chairman of Umeå Municipal Council
13:05 Perspectives from Indigenous Arctic Communities
13:10 Opening Address on Sweden’s Role in Polar Science
13:15 Keynote talk: Socioeconomic and Ecosystem Challenges at the Poles in the Face of Climate Change: From the Poles to Global Impacts
Prof. Antonio Quesada, Spanish Polar Committee
13:30 Overview of the 5th International Polar Year (IPY) 2032–2033
Henry Burgess, IASC President, IPY Executive Committee
Dr. Gerlis Fugmann, IASC Executive Secretary, IPY Interim Secretariat
13:40 UN Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences, 2025–2034: Global Perspectives
Anil Mishra, Chief of Section Hydrological Systems, Climate Change and Adaptation, Focal Point for the UN Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences, UNESCO
13:45 Towards a Unified yet Diverse European Polar Voice: Coordination, Collaboration, and Communication
Dr. Maria Grigoratou, Executive Secretary of European Polar Board
14:00 Break (30 mins)
14:30–15:10 Towards a unified yet diverse European Polar voice to address 21st Century global challenges — a Polar perspective
The panel will discuss ways for Europe to strengthen its influence in polar regions through collaboration, policy engagement, and public outreach. It will use current experiences to find ways to keep Polar science impactful. The panellists will talk about making scientific research more relevant to society, integrating science into policymaking, and building long-term resilience despite uncertainties. They will also consider how to bridge trust gaps to improve current and future planning.
15:15–15:50 Aligning European Polar Science with Global Initiatives: Strengthening Contributions to the International Polar Year 2032-2033 and the UN Decade of the Cryosphere
The panel will discuss how the European polar science community can strengthen its role in major international initiatives, such as the International Polar Year (IPY) 2032– 2033 and the UN Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences, 2025–2034. They will focus on improving coordination, collaboration, and scientific contributions to support these global efforts, ensuring Europe plays a key role in shaping the future of polar and cryosphere research.
The panel discussions will include representatives from European and International organisations engaged in polar research, policy, global cooperation, and Indigenous Arctic Communities. Each session will be followed by an open Q&A where participants can share insights and ask questions.
15:50 Closing Remarks
16:00–18:00 Reception
The event is organised by Umeå University, Luleå University of Technology, Swedish Polar Research Secretariat and European Polar Board.
If you have any questions, please contact the Arctic Centre at arctic.centre@umu.se