Katrín Jakobsdóttir and Costas Kadis announced as first keynote speakers

We are pleased to announce the first keynote speakers for the UArctic Congress 2026 and the Ocean Connectivity Conference: Katrín Jakobsdóttir and Costas Kadis. Both will take the stage during the Opening Session on 26 May.

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Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Chair of the Arctic Circle Polar Dialogue, Senior Emissary of Arctic Circle, and former Prime Minister of Iceland (2017–2024), will deliver a keynote titled “Our Future in the Arctic.” Drawing on her extensive political and international experience, she will address the importance of safeguarding human rights and democracy in the Arctic. Her talk will explore how to balance Indigenous knowledge and lived experience with scientific insights and political priorities, and what kind of dialogue is needed to navigate the region’s future.

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Costas Kadis, European Commissioner for Oceans and Fisheries, will bring a European and global perspective on ocean governance and sustainability. As the Commissioner responsible for the EU’s fisheries and oceans policy, he plays a key role in advancing efforts to restore ocean health, strengthen maritime security, and support coastal communities.

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Together, these keynote speakers will set the stage for important discussions at the Congress, addressing some of the most pressing issues in the Arctic and beyond.

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Read more about Katrín Jakobsdóttir here.

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Read more about Costas Kadis here.