Arctic research and pragmatic science diplomacy: A perspective from the International Arctic Research Center

Arctic research hinges on vigorous international collaboration dating back to the first International Polar Year (IPY, 1882/83), and reconfirmed during the most recent fourth IPY 2007/08. The lifetime of international scientific collaboration and the associated institutional memory typically exceeds legislative period time spans, and in cases such as the IPY may exceed the lifetime of forms of government. Solving pressing scientific problems stemming from rapid Arctic environmental change require international collaboration and coordination. We focus on the specifics of a pragmatic - outcomes-oriented, non-dogmatic - approach to international collaboration. Specifically, what is it that scientists can do to advance both research and science diplomacy? Drawing on two decades of internationally framed research at the University of Alaska Fairbanks' International Arctic Research Center (IARC), we see the following practices as essential to pragmatic science diplomacy outcomes. (1) Broad collaboration: Constructive exchange between researchers, agency personnel, indigenous experts, private sector and non-governmental organizations is at the forefront of science diplomacy. Responses to rapid Arctic change require inclusive, cross-cutting approaches, as illustrated by an analysis of sustained observations in the U.S. maritime Arctic, many of which are conducted by foreign nations. (2) Building on and perpetuating existing frameworks: Time-tested international programs, such as the IPY, World Meteorological Organization programs, or the International Arctic Science Committee have built a strong constituency and can help ensure inclusion of scientists from nations that may not be as supportive of more ad-hoc collaborations. The Sustaining Arctic Observing Networks initiative is a key entity in this context. (3) Focus on shared societal benefits: Sustained Arctic observations in support of improved weather prediction in non-Arctic countries, detection of transformative Arctic Ocean change, and the common denominator of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals illustrate this point. (4) Training and education: More than a decade of successful IARC summer schools demonstrate the importance of fostering networks among early-career researchers.