On 19–20 November, the Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine hosted a practical online seminar titled “Ukraine’s National Interests in the Polar Regions: At the Intersection of Politics, Diplomacy, and Science.”

Before the start of the course, Director of the Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine Ihor Ostash met with representatives of the National Antarctic Scientific Center — Yevhen Dykyi, Dmytro Cheberkus, and Andrii Fedchuk. During the meeting, the parties discussed current areas of cooperation and the further development of educational programs on Antarctic studies for diplomats and civil servants.

Over the course of two days, seminar participants explored key aspects of the international Antarctic regime, Ukraine’s role in its consultative bodies, contemporary geopolitical challenges, and the instruments for safeguarding national interests in the polar regions. Particular attention was devoted to the evolution of Ukraine’s presence on the continent — from the first expeditions to today’s scientific activities, including the opportunities provided by the icebreaker Noosfera and the Vernadsky Research Station.

The invited lecturers included:

• Yevhen Dykyi — Director of the National Antarctic Scientific Center, Head of the Ukrainian Delegation (2023–2025), Doctor of Biological Sciences;
  
  

• Dmytro Cheberkus — Expert on the international Antarctic regime, Representative of Ukraine at the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (2017–2020), PhD in Economics;
  
  

• Andrii Fedchuk — Head of the Department of International Scientific and Technical Cooperation at the National Antarctic Scientific Center, Member of the Ukrainian Delegation (2007–2025), PhD in Geography.
  
  

The event was organized by the Professional Training Center  to enhance the awareness of Ukrainian diplomats and civil servants regarding Ukraine’s participation in international mechanisms for governing the polar regions, as well as the strategic importance of the Ukrainian Antarctic Program.