Selen Baldıran

What’s the work that you do?

I am a researcher and PhD candidate in maritime studies, specializing in Arctic maritime security. My research investigates non-traditional security threats in the Arctic—such as climate-induced risks, illegal fishing, eco-terrorism, and irregular migration—through the lens of international relations theory, with a particular emphasis on green theory. Methodologically, I employ qualitative research techniques alongside multi-criteria decision-making frameworks to assess threat likelihood and evolving risk patterns. My scholarly interests encompass Arctic governance, environmental and maritime security, and the broader implications of climate change for regional security architectures.

What keeps you going?

I am driven by the intellectual challenge of understanding how environmental change reshapes security dynamics in one of the world’s most sensitive regions: the Arctic. What keeps me going is the possibility of contributing to a more sustainable and secure maritime future by producing knowledge that addresses governance gaps and emerging risks. I enjoy the analytical depth of academic research, the interdisciplinarity of maritime security studies, and the sense of purpose that comes from working on issues with real global relevance. The pursuit of deeper understanding—and the hope of informing better policy—motivate my work every day.

What’s your message to the world?

The Arctic is a quiet reminder that the planet’s edges are where truth speaks the loudest. As the ice thins, it asks us one question: will we protect what remains, or lose what cannot be replaced? My message is simple—honour the polar world, and we honour our own future.