The Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (APECS) is a non-partisan, non-governmental organization that does not usually take a stance on current political events, but firmly condemns Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Both countries contribute to polar research, which requires international collaboration — the foundation of APECS.
We wish to express our strong support for Ukraine. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine and with all the victims of this conflict. We also acknowledge the risk that our Russian colleagues are taking by speaking out against the war; their efforts do not go unnoticed.
Ukraine leads an ambitious polar research programme, for instance maintaining a year-round research station in Antarctica, but is not yet represented within APECS as a National Committee. The APECS leadership will work to develop a Ukrainian National Committee, with the goal of providing more opportunities for Ukrainian early career researchers. We will do everything in our power to limit the isolation of polar early career researchers behind political borders, and encourage the continued participation of our Russian members, who may feel trapped in a situation imposed upon them.
We wish for a quick return to peace and for Ukraine to soon be able to rebuild as a sovereign country.
APECS Executive Committee 2021-2022 and Directorate, 18 March 2022