German Arctic Office

The Arctic has become a key area where changes may raise complex sociopolitical issues of global importance. The development of the Arctic will affect Germany, Europe and the whole world. Therefore the German Arctic Office at the Alfred Wegener Institute serves as an information and cooperation platform for German stakeholders invested in Arctic science, politics and industry. It enhances the visibility of Germany‘s engagement in the Arctic on a national and international level.

Germany has established itself as a recognized player in international Arctic research. The Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research has been working in the Arctic for more than 30 years. It is one of the few institutions worldwide with long-term interdisciplinary scientific research the northern polar region and the Arctic Ocean - from the seabed to the atmosphere to the ecosystem and the Earth's history.

Policy Advice

The German Arctic Office serves as a central point of contact for political and scientific bodies, NGO‘s and German industry. It advises the Federal Government on Arctic issues through statements and briefings based on the most current state of research and fosters Germany‘s participation in the Arctic Council‘s scientific activities.

Information Platform

The German Arctic Office provides scientific organizations with background information on current policy relevant developments in the Arctic Region, and informs German stakeholders from science, politics and industry with consitent information from the global Arctic research community.

Forums and Events

The German Arctic Office initiates and organizes national Arctic meetings and events in cooperation with partners from science, politics and industry, and supports the federal government in the representation of German Arctic research and policy at international conferences.