Céline Rodrigues, MA

What’s the work that you do?

At the moment I am focused on developing my PhD research about why and how Portugal is being placed in the Arctic considering the challenges of maritime security in the Atlantic and human security in the Arctic as a consequence of climate change. In that way, Portugal is getting closer to the Arctic and needs to prepare for geopolitical changes that will affect its maritime area.

What keeps you going?

That would be the passion about my research and being able to know more every day. There’s always the chance for a new discovery. Also, hoping it can fill gaps in research.

What’s your message to the world?

In the 21st century, humankind might reconnect with nature. I hope it happens. Only by understanding how nature functions, why humankind needs it and why human behaviour needs to change will we be able to respect this planet, be that on land or at sea. Understanding the importance of the Poles for humankind also reflects that kind of globalisation that is not about trade but about the connection of everything, including between human beings and nature. We are part of the ecosystem. Everything is connected.