In a recent editorial published in Advances in Polar Science (Volume 36, Issue 2), renowned science diplomat Prof. Paul Arthur Berkman shares his vision for the 5th International Polar Year (IPY-5), emphasizing global inclusion as a cornerstone. Prof. Berkman explores current and accelerating momentum to implement science with society across the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development 2024–2033 with IPY-5 as a guiding light.
Within the editorial, Prof. Berkman reviews the historical context and evolution of the past International Polar Year. He then focuses on the planning and challenges for IPY-5, advocating for a truly inclusive global approach to polar science and its societal application. He also pointed out a true understanding of the polar regions and the cryosphere requires integrating diverse knowledge systems across the natural sciences, social sciences and Indigenous knowledge, involving all nations and peoples, overcoming geopolitical divides through science diplomacy with common interests building and peace as an enduring benefit for humanity.
This contribution follows Prof. Berkman's earlier article on IPY-5 published this year in Cambridge Prisms: Coastal Futures. As a leading figure in science diplomacy, Dr. Berkman founded the world’s first academic Science Diplomacy Center. His extensive experience includes coordinating the Arctic Options/Pan-Arctic Options projects (2013-2021) and collaborating with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research. His influential research frequently appears in top-tier journals such as Nature, Science, and Geophysical Research Letters.
Advances in Polar Science (APS), a quarterly open-access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to multidisciplinary Arctic and Antarctic research, is honored to feature Prof. Berkman’s insights. His perspectives are particularly valuable as the international community prepares for IPY-5.
To support this critical event, APS plans to establish a dedicated IPY Special Column later in this year. We warmly invite and welcome submissions presenting diverse perspectives on the planning, execution, and goals of the IPY-5. We believe that the inclusion must extend to engaging and empowering the young generation of polar researchers. Thus, we especially encourage contributions from early-career scientists, with their fresh ideas and commitment vital for the success of IPY-5.
Read Prof. Berkman’s full editorial:
Read his related work in Cambridge Prisms: Coastal Futures:
All articles from Advances in Polar Science can be found on the Arctic Portal library