25 March 2026 | 13:30 - 15:30 CET
Open Session - HYBRID
Room: Mødelokale 1
Organiser: Christina Viskum Lytken Larsen (Centre for Public Health in Greenland, National Institute of Public Health, SDU)
Session Description:
This session will give you insight into the role of The Thematic Network for Health and Well-being organized under The University of the Arctic (UArctic) in strengthening the networks on research and education across the Arctic and a better understanding of the organizations involved.
Circumpolar health is a vital field that explores the unique health challenges and strengths of Arctic and sub-Arctic communities, shaped by geographic isolation, climate change, and cultural transitions. Studying health and well-being in the circumpolar North is essential for building equitable, culturally safe, and sustainable health systems. It also highlights the resilience and knowledge of Indigenous peoples and local communities, offering insights that enrich global health. Increasingly, the field embraces holistic approaches such as One Health — a perspective long embedded in Indigenous worldviews, recognizing the deep interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health.
The circumpolar region is not only a shared environment but also a space of collaboration and mutual learning, where researchers, practitioners, and communities strive to work across disciplines and co-create solutions.
Circumpolar health research is represented across various councils, networks, conferences, and working groups. These networks often share members and goals but operate with limited administrative resources, leading to potential duplication and inefficiencies. During these years The University of the Arctic (UArctic) has grown into a strong organization and a leading actor in Arctic science and education.
The TNHW, part of UArctic, has successfully organized PhD and advanced master’s level courses and supported sub-groups focused on One Health, Ageing in the Arctic, and Circumpolar Maternal and Child Health. Many TNHW members are also active in other key organizations, such as the Circumpolar Health Research Network and the Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC) Health Committee.