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ICARP IV Reports Set Priorities for Arctic Research in the Coming Decade
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The International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) has released the Fourth International Conference on Arctic Research Planning (ICARP IV) Final Outcomes Report, along with seven Research Priority Team (RPT) reports. The reports were launched during the Arctic Science Summit Week 2026 (ASSW 2026) in Aarhus, Denmark, on 26 March 2026, and are now available online.
The ICARP IV process brought together a broad range of participants, including Arctic researchers, Indigenous Peoples, policy-makers, residents, and other stakeholders from across the Arctic and beyond. The goal was to identify key knowledge gaps and define research priorities for the next decade, as well as recommend ways to address these challenges.
The process was organised into seven Research Priority Teams, covering topics such as the Arctic’s role in the global Earth system, climate and ecosystem dynamics, social-ecological systems, research cooperation and diplomacy, Indigenous-led research, education and knowledge-sharing, and research infrastructure and technology.
Across these themes, the reports highlight six overarching areas for action. These include improving scientific understanding and modelling capabilities, strengthening research infrastructure and observation systems, supporting mitigation and adaptation efforts, advancing how research is conducted, enhancing education and outreach, and improving governance, policy, and international collaboration.
A key message throughout the reports is the importance of Indigenous Peoples’ engagement and leadership in Arctic research. The findings emphasise the need for Indigenous-led research, co-production of knowledge, equitable partnerships, and ensuring that research reflects the priorities and perspectives of Arctic communities.
Download the ICARP IV Final Outcome Report
The ICARP IV process was organised into seven Research Priority Teams (RPTs):
RPT 1: The Role of the Arctic in the Global Earth System
RPT 2: Observing, Reconstructing, and Predicting Future Climate Dynamics and Ecosystem Responses
RPT 3: Understanding the Dynamics and Resilience of Arctic Social-ecological Systems to Foster Sustainable Futures
RPT 4: Arctic Research Cooperation and Diplomacy
RPT 5: Co-Production and Indigenous-led Arctic Research
RPT 6: Education and Knowledge-Sharing In and About the Arctic: Research and Practice
RPT 7: Technology, Infrastructure, Logistics, and Services
Download all the RPTs reports here
About ICARP IV
The International Conference on Arctic Research Planning (ICARP) is a decadal process coordinated by IASC, bringing together the global Arctic research community to define priorities for the coming decade. ICARP IV, running from 2022 to 2026, is a multi-year, community-wide effort involving researchers, Indigenous Peoples, policy-makers, and stakeholders worldwide.
Through workshops, surveys, and collaborative discussions, the process identifies the most urgent knowledge gaps and develops recommendations for future research and cooperation. The outcomes of ICARP IV will help guide Arctic science planning up to 2035 and contribute to preparations for the next International Polar Year (2032–2033).
The ICARP IV Final Report is intended to support not only the scientific community but also policy-makers, funders, and the public by outlining where knowledge gaps remain and where future investments are needed. A Summary for Policy-makers and a Call for Action for Funders will be published later this spring, providing targeted guidance for decision-making and funding priorities.
Source: ICARP IV
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