Federico Arenas Vásquez

Federico Arenas Vásquez is a researcher at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (Geografía UC), specializing in territorial planning, socio-natural risks, and institutional management. He holds a PhD in Economic and Social Sciences with a Geography specialization from the University of Geneva, Switzerland. As a UC Geographer, he has served as director of the UC Geography Institute for five consecutive terms (2007–2021), contributing extensively to Chilean territorial governance frameworks.

• Education: PhD in Economic and Social Sciences (Geography), University of Geneva
• Institutional Roles: Director of UC Geography Institute (2007–2021), Consultant for Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Co-Investigator in FONDECYT projects

His research focuses on territorial transformations, emphasizing the interplay between geographical factors and administrative systems. He analyzes municipal water governance, environmental justice in 'sacrifice zones,' and the geopolitical implications of border-space dynamics in regions like Arica and Tacna. Current work includes evolutionary geomorphology and coastal resilience under FONDECYT Project 1241922 (2024–2027).

Key article trends reveal interdisciplinary engagement with territorial planning (33%), environmental governance (25%), border studies (20%), and social inequality analysis (22%).

Scientific Awards:

• 2022 National Geography Award (SOCHIGEO)

He has led major consulting initiatives for Chilean government agencies like SUBDERE and MINVU-UNDP, including the formulation of the National Territorial Planning Policy Proposal (PNOT) and methodological guides for regional territorial plans. His work bridges academic research and policy implementation, with a focus on sustainable urban development and coastal resilience.