The UArctic Congress 2026 will take place from 26–29 May 2026 in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, bringing together researchers, Indigenous representatives, policymakers, and students from across the circumpolar North and beyond.

Hosted by the University of the Faroe Islands in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Culture and the Faroe Marine Research Institute, the congress is expected to gather hundreds of participants to discuss key challenges and opportunities facing the Arctic region.

Early bird registration is open until 31 March

Registration for the congress is now open, with an early bird rate (€550) available until 31 March 2026.

After this date, standard registration fees will apply - regular €700 and student rate €375.

The congress registration includes access not only to the main conference but also to associated events such as the UArctic Assembly, the Rectors’ Forum, and the Ocean Connectivity Conference, which is being held as part of the programme.

Programme to focus on key Arctic challenges

While the full programme will be released closer to the event, the congress will feature high-level plenary sessions, parallel scientific sessions, and networking opportunities.

The themes of the 2026 congress reflect current priorities in Arctic research and policy, including:

• Sustainable Economic Development and International Cooperation
• Oceans and Marine Systems
• Climate Change in the Arctic
• Biodiversity
• Indigenous Peoples and Northern Communities

A preliminary programme overview is already available online, with more detailed session information to be published in the coming months.

A platform for Arctic collaboration

The UArctic Congress is a biennial event that combines a major scientific conference with key meetings of the University of the Arctic network. It serves as a platform to strengthen cooperation, share knowledge, and develop new partnerships across Arctic research and education.

The 2026 gathering marks the fifth UArctic Congress held to date, reflecting the continued growth of the network and its role in shaping Arctic research and collaboration.

By bringing together diverse participants from across disciplines and regions, the congress aims to support collaborative solutions to the complex challenges facing the Arctic.

What is UArctic?

The University of the Arctic (UArctic) is a network of universities, colleges, research institutes, and other organizations focused on education and research in and about the North.

Through its member institutions, UArctic works to build shared resources, strengthen research collaboration, and support education across the Arctic region. The network plays a key role in connecting Arctic and non-Arctic institutions and promoting knowledge exchange on northern issues.

Further information on registration, programme updates, and participation is available on the congress website.

Source: UArctic Congress 2026