Why it matters
Why an International Polar Year in 2032–33?
The polar regions are changing rapidly, with consequences that reach far beyond the Arctic and Antarctic. The 5th International Polar Year will help coordinate the knowledge, research, observations, education, and partnerships needed to respond to these changes.
2032–33
The main implementation period for IPY-5.
Global
Polar change affects climate, ecosystems, communities, economies, and wellbeing worldwide.
Together
IPY-5 brings together researchers, knowledge holders, rights holders, educators, and communities.
A changing planet needs coordinated polar knowledge
Extreme weather, increasing temperatures, sea-level rise, droughts, floods, and wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe across the globe. At the same time, ocean warming, ocean acidification, sea-ice change, and sea-level rise are affecting ecosystems, economies, the rights and livelihoods of Indigenous Peoples, and human wellbeing.
Many of these changes are taking shape faster than predicted. Several of the most serious global consequences are linked to unprecedented changes in the Arctic and Antarctic.
Polar change has global consequences
Changes in the polar regions influence global climate, biodiversity, sea level, weather patterns, and human societies. Understanding these links is essential for informed action.
Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge and rights matter
IPY-5 must recognise and elevate the critical status, rights, roles, and knowledge systems of Indigenous Peoples in understanding and responding to rapid polar change.
No single country can do this alone
Global, transdisciplinary coordination is needed to generate the knowledge breakthroughs required for effective local, national, regional, and international responses.
Why IPY-5 is needed now
IPY-5 will provide a shared international framework for strengthening polar research, connecting knowledge systems, supporting education and outreach, and producing actionable information for mitigation, adaptation, and long-term decision-making.
Explore the wider IPY-5 context
A crucial new phase
Learn how IPY-5 builds on previous International Polar Years and why the next phase matters.
Read moreMission and objectives
See what IPY-5 aims to achieve through research, cooperation, knowledge production, education, and outreach.
View objectivesGet involved in IPY-5
IPY-5 will depend on broad international participation. Countries, organisations, research communities, Indigenous Peoples’ organisations, educators, early career researchers, and other partners all have a role to play.
Find out how to get involved