(see the current Thematic Networks at www.uarctic.org/thematic). In the new UArctic strategy Thematic Networks are forming a new strategic area with more expectations and responsibilities. This also requires more quality measures and more detailed information from new Thematic Network applicants. Therefore new quality guidelines for Thematic Networks have been developed over the past year and the goal is to have them accepted at the Thematic Networks Program Team meeting in January, followed by appropriate procedures. After the approval the guidelines will come in to effect immediately.

The UArctic Thematic Networks Quality Guidelines include a section for establishing a new Thematic Network. Therefore, if you are planning to establish a new Thematic Network at the UArctic council meeting in 2009, please contact coordinator Kirsi Latola, she will give you information on new issues to be taken into account. After the Thematic Networks Quality Guidelines have been accepted, it becomes a public document and will be published on the website (www.uarctic.org/thematic).

Contact information:
Coordinator Kirsi Latola
UArctic Thematic Networks Programme Office
Thule Institute
P.O.Box 7300
FIN-90014 University of Oulu, Finland
Email: kirsi.latola@uarctic.org
Tel: +358-8-553 3565
Mob: +358-40-0274 056
http://www.uarctic.org/thematic/