King Harald’s longstanding patronage and deep interest in the polar regions were of great importance to the Academy and Norwegian polar research.

Twenty-one PhD students and postdoctoral researchers from ten countries gathered in Svalbard to explore the Arctic through lectures, fieldwork, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The High North Partnership presents a diverse programme at Arendalsuka 2026, with debates on Arctic cooperation, environmental security, ocean research, green energy, preparedness, and Indigenous rights. NVP contributes to the event “The Arctic: Environmental Security and a Changing World”.

Participants explored Arctic tipping points, critical infrastructure, and geopolitics before applying their knowledge in a crisis management and conflict-resolution exercise.

Participants explored Indigenous and scientific knowledge systems before heading into the field for a glacier excursion at Longyearbreen.

Lectures and field observations highlighted how pollution, climate change, and ecosystem change are affecting Arctic wildlife, landscapes, and coastal environments.

Participants spent the day exploring Isfjorden by RIB boat, visiting glaciers, observing wildlife, and examining geological features in the field.

Governance, adaptation, critical minerals, and Indigenous perspectives took centre stage as participants explored how Arctic communities navigate rapid environmental and societal change.

Participants spent the day learning essential Arctic field safety skills, combining classroom instruction, polar bear safety training, and practical exercises in the field.

Climate change, environmental transformation, and geopolitics took centre stage as participants explored how a rapidly changing Arctic is reshaping ecosystems, societies, and international relations.