This is what UiT is doing at Arctic Frontiers 2026

UiT is a partner of Arctic Frontiers and is making a strong presence at this year's conference. Around 60 UiT employees are participating, and the university is involved in over 40 events, more than 20 of which are led by UiT.

Arctic Frontiers is a major conference and meeting place focusing on geopolitics, science, and business, bringing together politicians, business leaders, academics, and journalists from around the world in Tromsø.

"Arctic Frontiers is the Arctic's version of the Davos meeting," says Dag Rune Olsen, Rector of UiT.

"Here, you get a wide variety of perspectives, insights, and discussions about the northern regions today, with many prominent guests," Olsen adds.

Turn of the tide

This year's conference theme is Turn of the Tide, referring to a tidal shift or a turning point, and it examines the rhythms of global change and their consequences for pan-Arctic cooperation.

The discussions will revolve around how geopolitical landscapes are evolving, climate systems are accelerating, and economic structures are being reshaped.

Four people sitting on chairs. — UiT is involved in over 40 events, covering everything from geopolitics and climate to space weather and Indigenous issues. Pictured here from last year’s conference, including Professor Kari Aga Myklebost. Foto: Kjetil Rydland / UiT.

Geopolitics, Climate, Solar Storms, and Indigenous Peoples

UiT plays a role in many events, covering a wide range of topics.

The recurring themes include geopolitics, energy, climate change, ecosystems, and Indigenous issues.

Our researchers are participating in several research sessions – including those on preparedness and security in the Arctic, the impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems, and changes in permafrost.

We are also contributing to many side events addressing various challenges in the Arctic.

These will cover topics such as energy security, renewable energy, solar storms and space weather forecasting, the consequences of Russia's war in Ukraine, academia in a time of geopolitical change, AI and satellites, Indigenous involvement in research, and the Polhavet 2050 project.

Presentation of the Mohn Prize

Three people during an award ceremony. — The Mohn Prize 2026, for outstanding Arctic research, will be presented during Arctic Frontiers. Pictured here is the presentation of the previous Mohn Prize in 2024, which was awarded to Oran Young. It was presented by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. On the right is Rector Dag Rune Olsen. Foto: Jørn Berger-Nyvoll / UiT.

There will be a dedicated side event about the Mohn Prize and a seminar on Smol’s research, which focuses on the factors driving environmental changes in the Arctic.

Free Events During the Day and Evening

Participation in Arctic Frontiers requires a fee, but the conference also offers a number of open and free events at various locations in Tromsø. See the programme here (apply the “Open” filter).

At the Town Hall, UiT researchers will take part in debates on topics such as tourism in Tromsø and how Sámi values can shape the city’s future.

In the evenings, UiT staff will also contribute to open, informal events.

At Amtmandens, there will be a debate titled "What happens when the EU says no to Norway?" and an outreach evening on How does the climate affect ordinary people?

At Storgata Camping, "Science on Tap" will take place, where researchers share knowledge through short and informal pub talks.

There will also be an open podcast recording of The Big Picture at Skirri.

"There is so much to discuss at Arctic Frontiers, as we are living in exciting times where developments are happening at an extraordinary pace. We are looking forward to an interesting and exciting week with fruitful discussions," says the Rector.

Moe, Trude Haugseth trude.h.moe@uit.no Senior kommunikasjonsrådgiver

Published: 30.01.26 15:31 Updated: 30.01.26 15:48

Arctic Geopolitics International cooperation