IPY 2007-2008 was the first international polar year with a designated field for the social sciences and the humanities, summarised as “The Human Dimension” in the IPY science program. This Theme presents the rich legacy of the impressive array of research that has been undertaken during IPY across fields such as culture, history, economics, human and social development, governance, heritage, health, community well being, and adaptation to change. The sessions will give evidence of interdisciplinary cooperation and of the participation of Arctic residents, and will demonstrate the growth and vitality of social science and humanities research on both Polar Regions.