Programme overview

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The programme for UArctic Congress 2026 and the Ocean Connectivity Conference is now available online. Please note that this is a draft programme, and changes may occur before the final version is published.

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The programme is organised by themes, each represented by a colour:

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• Theme 1: Sustainable Economic Development and International Cooperation – green
• Theme 2: Oceans – blue
• Theme 3: Climate Change in the Arctic – pink
• Theme 4: Biodiversity – yellow
• Theme 5: Indigenous Peoples and Northern Communities – purple
• Theme 6: Other - red

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You can explore the programme by theme (including sub-themes), search for specific sessions, and bookmark those you find relevant. This allows you to create your own personalised programme. For example, if you are interested in an Oceans-focused programme, you can search for Theme 2 and bookmark all relevant sessions.

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Please note that the current programme includes only sessions taking place from 26–28 May at the venue, Við Tjarnir. Additional information, including poster sessions, side events, and other activities, will be added to the programme at a later stage.

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Below you can find additional information about activities taking place before, during, and after the main Congress days.

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Monday, 25 May

Participants are warmly invited to a Welcome Home reception, kindly hosted by Atlantic Airways. The informal gathering offers an opportunity to pick up name badges and connect with fellow participants ahead of the Congress opening the following morning.

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Tuesday, 26 May – Opening Day

‍The Congress officially opens at 09:00 with welcome addresses, keynote speeches, and a youth panel, setting the tone for the days ahead. Sessions begin later in the morning and continue throughout the day across the programme themes. In the evening, participants are invited to the Official Opening Reception in Tórshavn city centre.

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Wednesday, 27 May

‍Wednesday offers a full day of academic exchange across the Congress themes, including thematic keynote sessions and panel discussions.

The Rectors’ Forum will take place at Fiskastykkið on 27 May. This invited event gathers rectors and institutional leaders for strategic dialogue on Arctic collaboration and higher education.

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Thursday, 28 May – Ocean Day

‍Thursday highlights the Ocean Day, with a particular focus on the Ocean Connectivity Conference as an integrated part of the overall Congress programme.

The Congress concludes with a Closing Session, followed by the final reception, Ocean Night, including a cultural element celebrating Arctic–Ocean connections.

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Friday, 29 May – UArctic Assembly

The UArctic Assembly will take place at Kongshøll, located in Sjóvinnuhúsið by the harbour in central Tórshavn. The Assembly is open to all registered participants; however, it is primarily attended by UArctic member institutions and institutions considering or in the process of becoming members.

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