Updated 2025-09-26

– The government's proposed budget looks positive for polar research. Among other things, funding is proposed for the investments presented in the 2024 research and innovation bill, including a national polar research school and strategic research areas, with polar research being one of them, according to Katarina Gårdfeldt, Director of the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat.

Decision regarding Kristineberg

In the budget bill for 2026 (Prop. 2025/26:1), the government proposes that the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat's appropriation be increased to finance the takeover of the Kristineberg Marine Research Station from the University of Gothenburg. On 25 September 2025, the government decided to assign the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat to prepare and implement the integration of the station into the authority by 1 January 2026 (U2025/01881).

– The decision that the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat will be responsible for the Kristineberg Marine Research Station from 2026 is truly gratifying. Thanks to the takeover, access to marine expertise and research infrastructure is ensured, which strengthens Swedish polar research, says Katarina Gårdfeldt.

Investigation into a new research icebreaker continues

Sweden has a strategic interest in a strong presence in the Arctic. The government therefore wants to secure the country's leading position in polar research and independent access to the region. This means that the government's investigation into the possible acquisition of a new research icebreaker will continue.

– The government's clarity on the importance of securing Sweden's leading position in polar research and independent access to the Arctic demonstrates the broad societal benefit of polar research. The Swedish Polar Research Secretariat will continue to assist the government's investigation in securing cost-effective access to a research icebreaker, says Katarina Gårdfeldt.