Join researchers, policymakers and other professionals working on polar issues for the 2026 Polar Social Sciences and Humanities (PSSH) in the Netherlands meeting at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
This year’s meeting will explore some of the most pressing social and political questions facing the Arctic, from climate change and security to geopolitical tensions and resilience. It will also create space to meet others in the Dutch polar research community, exchange ideas and explore opportunities for future collaboration.
The meeting is organised by the Dutch representatives of the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) Social and Human Working Group, Özlem Terzi (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam) and Annette Scheepstra (University of Groningen). This year’s edition is supported through a collaboration between the Arctic Change Research Cluster of the Amsterdam Sustainability Institute (ASI) and seed funding from the VU Centre for Defence and Resilient Society.
What to expect
The morning programme brings together researchers and policymakers, including representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defence and Clingendael, for a conversation about security in the Arctic. What old and new security challenges are emerging, and how are they connected to climate change, geopolitics and resilience?
The programme will bring together updates and opportunities for collaboration in Arctic and Antarctic research. Topics include developments within the Arctic Council and Sustainable Development Working Group, IASC funding opportunities, and updates from the Netherlands Polar Programme. Participants will also discuss preparations for the International Polar Year, Antarctic tourism research and TRANSACT, and opportunities for collaboration in social sciences and humanities, with breakout sessions dedicated to developing ideas for future joint proposals.
In the afternoon, the focus shifts to collaboration within Dutch polar social sciences and humanities. Participants will hear about funding opportunities, developments within the Arctic Council, preparations for the International Polar Year and plans for the Netherlands Polar Day in spring 2027.
There will also be opportunities to exchange ideas in smaller groups, identify shared research interests and explore possibilities for developing future proposals together.
Who should join the meeting?
The meeting is open to researchers, policymakers and professionals interested in polar social sciences and humanities. Whether you are already active in polar research or looking to connect your work to the field, you are warmly invited to join the conversation.
How to register?
Registration takes place via email so that Özlem can answer any questions you may have and learn a little more about the backgrounds and interests of participants. The event aims to bring together not only attendees for the day, but a community of researchers and professionals who can stay connected, exchange ideas and explore opportunities for collaboration in the years ahead.
To secure your spot, click the “Sign up via email” button at the top of this page. You can copy Özlem’s email address and contact her directly at o.terzi@vu.nl.