The Letter of Agreement recognizes many common interests in international and multi-disciplinary cooperation in Arctic research, education and outreach between UArctic and the International Arctic Social Sciences Association (IASSA) and International Arctic Science Committee (IASC).

With the new Letter of Agreement, UArctic, IASSA and IASC aim to increase cooperation for mutual benefit, and to contribute to enhance the legacies of the International Polar Year 2007-2008 and the preparation of the 5th International Polar Year 2032-33. The organizations intend to combine their efforts in selected activities so as to raise the level of impact of all three organizations in terms of making advances in research, education and outreach relevant to Arctic issues, and for providing relevant advice to policy makers.