Inaugural Interdisciplinary Symposium a Resounding Success

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The inaugural interdisciplinary symposium, "The Future of Northern and Arctic Islands: 2050 and Beyond," organised by the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) Institute for Northern Studies, was a resounding success. The event attracted 78 delegates and featured international speakers from across the Northern Hemisphere.

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Held on September 19, 2025, the symposium was a collaborative effort with the Northern and Arctic Island Studies Research (NAISR) UArctic Thematic Network. Speakers explored a wide range of critical topics, including the region's changing geopolitical landscape, sustainable development, and the roles of language, culture, and heritage in shaping the future of Northern and Arctic islands. The final session summarized these discussions and formulated key recommendations and strategies to support a sustainable and prosperous future beyond 2050.

"I am delighted by the response to our call for an interdisciplinary symposium," said Chair and organiser Dr. Andrew Jennings, Associate Professor in Island Studies. "This demonstrates the commitment to sustainable development by agencies throughout the entire region as we move beyond 2050. I would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to making the event a success."

He continued, "Northern and Arctic islands are currently experiencing significant environmental, geopolitical, and societal transformations. These changes present complex challenges and opportunities for the region's futures. In response, this symposium aimed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and scholarly exchange on the long-term outlook for these vital areas."

Thanks to our speakers:

  • Firouz Gaini, University of the Faroe Islands
  • Merit Kindsigo, TalTech Kuressaare College
  • Gary Wilson, University of Northern British Columbia
  • Pia Prost, Södertörn University
  • Nick Mercer, University of Prince Edward Island
  • Laurie Brinklow, University of Prince Edward Island

The video of the entire symposium is now available on our YouTube channel.