News

SAVE THE DATE: The 2nd Asia–Arctic Conference (February 2027)

Hokkaido University will host the “Asia–Arctic Conference” in February 2027, in collaboration with the Asia–Arctic Network on Research and Education, the Japan Forum on International Relations, and other partner organizations. This forum provides a platform for experts to examine security-related issues arising between Asia and the Arctic regions. As geopolitical, economic, environmental, and technological interconnections between the two regions continue to deepen, the conference offers an opportunity for specialists from various fields to engage in discussions on shared challenges and emerging opportunities.

DATE: 18–19 February 2027

VENUE: Hokkaido University (Sapporo), FMI Hall

Organizers: Hokkaido University and Asia-Arctic Network on Research and Education, The Japan Forum on International Relations, UArctic Thematic Network on Arctic in Asia, Asia in the Arctic; JSPS-Research Council of Finland Bilateral project, ArCS 3 Governance group, TBA

Overview

The Asia–Arctic Conference is an interdisciplinary forum exploring the growing security linkages between Asia and the Arctic. As geopolitical, economic, environmental, and technological developments increasingly connect these regions, the conference brings together scholars, policymakers, industry experts, and practitioners to discuss shared challenges and opportunities.

The conference adopts a broad concept of security, covering:

  • Hard security & geopolitics

  • Energy & economic security

  • Human security

  • Environmental & climate security

  • Food security

  • Supply-chain & critical infrastructure security

  • Emerging risks in changing Arctic–Asian dynamics

Practical Information

  • Participation: Free of charge (registration required; link to be provided)

  • Language: English (with Japanese interpretation)

  • Format: Hybrid

Tentative Program

18 February 2027 (Thu) | 12:30–17:30

  • Doors open

  • Opening remarks

  • Session 1: Hard security, geopolitics, international relations

  • Break

  • Session 2: Energy security, economic security, infrastructure

  • Break

  • High-Level Panel Discussion

  • Special Session 1: Highlights of research at Hokkaido University Arctic Research Center

  • Social gathering

19 February 2027 (Fri) | 08:45–15:30

  • Doors open

  • Session 3: Human security, Indigenous rights and communities

  • Break

  • Session 4: Environmental and food security

  • Lunch break

  • Special Session 2: TBA

  • Closing words

Related Event

The conference is organized back-to-back with the International Symposium on the Okhotsk Sea and Polar Oceans (Mombetsu Symposium), held on 21–24 February 2027. Participants may travel from Sapporo to Mombetsu on 20 February (Sat) or 21 February (Sun) morning.

Download the announcement letter here