Arctic Frontiers 2026 – Turn of the Tide
Arctic Frontiers is a catalyst for decision-making and network building by mobilizing key voices of science, policy, business, and local Arctic communities, to rapidly turn knowledge into actions.
The Arctic Frontiers Administration has, since 2007, organized the annual Arctic Frontiers conference in Tromsø, which gathers scientists, businesses, policymakers and representative of local and indigenous peoples for holistic discussions about the future of the Arctic region. Additionally, the organization hosts year-round activities, including Arctic Frontiers Abroad events, Arctic Frontiers Open events for the public and Arctic Frontiers Young events for the future generation of Arctic leaders between 5-35 years old.
Arctic Frontiers works closely with our partner network to provide knowledge-based and up-to-date perspectives on Arctic issues. The competence and interdisciplinarity of the partner network are unique in both national and international contexts.
Turn of the Tide 2026
In the Arctic, as across the globe, tides are shifting. Geopolitical landscapes are evolving, climate systems are accelerating, and economic structures are being reshaped. From rising temperatures and economic recalibration to cultural resurgence, the Arctic is both a witness to and a driver of transformation. This year’s theme underscores the ebb and flow of the world, and the time for change. In this moment of opportunity, we invite participants to reflect on the rhythms of global change and their implications for the pan-Arctic region. In 2026 we will bring together leading voices to examine the state of Arctic collaboration, economic transitions, infrastructure needs, technological frontiers, and the health of the ocean that unites the region. And as the world’s tide turns, we will explore how the Arctic can influence, adapt to, and help shape the global future.
Science SESSIONS
Arctic Frontiers 2026 will feature 7 different science and research themes. These are designed to be interdisciplinary and welcome submissions from natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, law, management, and more. All researchers are welcome to submit an abstract to the session that best suits their work.
The themes for 2026 are:
- Monitoring, Modeling, and Mitigating the Consequences of Arctic Permafrost Change
- Maritime Extremes: Communication, Uncertainty and Emerging Technologies
- High Tide for Arctic Preparedness
- Governance and Policy for Sustainable Space Activities
- Ocean Observational Pyramid: From Seabed to Space Monitoring
- Maintaining and Developing Arctic Observing Capabilities
- Arctic Transformation: Climate Change and Cumulative Effects on Ecosystems
Centre leader Christoph Trattner will be part of the Science Committee for the session called High Tide for Arctic Preparedness.
2026 Conference Program will be launched in November.