Science Diplomacy in France and Turkey: A New Prospect for Cooperation

How is the Arctic imagined, narrated, and claimed from outside its borders? This panel, held in Istanbul, brings together scholars to explore “outsider geopolitics”, the ways in which non-Arctic states and organizations narrate the Arctic as a strategic, scientific, economic, or symbolic space, and how these framings shape the region’s governance, security, and cooperation. Holding this discussion in Istanbul is timely: Turkey has ratified the Svalbard Treaty, shown growing scientific interest in the Arctic, and positioned itself as a bridge between regions, making it a natural site to reflect on how the Arctic is imagined from outside. Such narratives are not only driven by material interests but also by status-seeking, identity aspirations, and normative claims that frame how actors see their role in the Arctic and the global order. As global interest intensifies, these narratives carry political weight — shaping international perceptions, steering policy priorities, and fostering either cooperation or tension.

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Organizers: Malaurie Institute of Arctic Research (Paris), High North Center,

Nord University (Bodø)​

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Eda Ayaydin – Andreas Raspotnik

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Chair: Eda Ayaydın-Researcher MIARC/ULIP 

Discussant: Andreas Raspotnik-Director of High North Center 

Speakers

Jan Borm-Director of MIARC

Alexandre Delangle-PhD Candidate MIARC

Laura Njunnas- PhD Candidate MIARC

Mustafa Furkan Durmaz- PhD Candidate Yeditepe University

 

Date: 6 November 2025

Venue: Yeditepe University, Istanbul

Contact Eda Ayaydin for funding possibilities.

eda.ayaydin@ulip.lon.ac.uk