From Germany to Netherlands to Akureyri

“Studying Polar Law at the University of Akureyri (UNAK) has been an incredibly enriching and interdisciplinary experience. As a second-year student in the Polar Law program, I have had the opportunity to explore complex issues related to environmental law, policy, and governance in the context of the polar regions,” says Anna Christin Lauenburger, a student in Polar Law at UNAK. This program offers a unique platform for students from diverse backgrounds to engage with these issues, which in Anna´s opinion, has enriched her learning and sparked meaningful conversations among peers.

One of the things that sets the Polar Law program apart is the diversity of perspectives it brings to the table. With students from various countries, sharing insights, challenges, and experiences, has in Anna´s mind, enhanced her understanding of the topics at hand. The discussions in class often touch on international cooperation, sustainable development, and the intricate legal frameworks that govern the Arctic and Antarctic regions.

The journey to Polar Law

Anna says that her decision in choosing Polar Law at UNAK was influenced by her strong interest in environmental issues and her desire to deepen her understanding of the polar regions and explains how the opportunity came about, „During my BA in International Relations at the University of Groningen in The Netherlands, I had the opportunity to take a Minor in Arctic and Antarctic Studies, which sparked my passion for these regions. A professor I had during my studies in The Netherlands recommended the Polar Law program at UNAK, and it felt like the perfect fit for my academic interests. The minor program provided a unique glimpse into the environmental, political, and scientific challenges facing the Arctic and Antarctic, and I realized that I wanted to pursue this field further. “

Sharing a message from the Youth

In December Anna was offered an opportunity to participate in the 2nd Kobe PCRC/KOPRI Antarctic Governance Workshop in Kobe, Japan. „I decided to apply and to my delight, I was awarded funding to attend and, in addition, was invited to deliver a short speech at the event.

The speech was an incredible honor. It gave me the chance to address diplomats, scientists, and professionals in the field of Antarctic governance, sharing a message from the youth. I felt both humbled and empowered by the opportunity, as it was a rare occasion to have my voice heard and acknowledged by experts in such a specialized field. I am deeply grateful to the Kobe PCRC and ArCSII for sponsoring my participation and for providing a platform for young people to engage in important conversations about the future of polar governance”. You can listen to her speech here.

Dedicated to polar research

„I am originally from Germany and am currently in my second year of MA in Polar Law at UNAK, where I focused on environmental issues and took a Minor in Arctic and Antarctic Studies. This academic background, combined with my growing interest in polar regions, led me to pursue my MA thesis in Polar Law. Through my studies and experiences, I am dedicated to contributing to the field of polar research and policy development, with a focus on the environmental challenges and legal frameworks that shape the Arctic and Antarctic regions“.

In conclusion, Anna says her journey in Polar Law has been both academically fulfilling and professionally inspiring. „I am excited about the future and the potential to make a meaningful impact in the field of polar governance.“