Geopolitical Tensions and Climate Change Reshape the Arctic Region

The Arctic region is experiencing increased geopolitical attention due to factors such as the United States expressing interest in controlling Greenland and climate change causing significant environmental changes. This has led to a shift from cooperation among Arctic nations to increased competition for resources. Eight nations have territory within the Arctic Circle, with Canada, Denmark, Norway, Russia, and the U.S. having the largest coastlines. These nations exercise territorial and economic rights through Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) but do not "own" the Arctic Ocean. The Arctic Council, formed in 1996, promotes cooperation but has been strained by events like Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Climate change is rapidly transforming the Arctic, with winter sea ice extent at record lows and projections of ice-free summers by 2050. This melting ice opens new shipping routes but also poses risks such as permafrost thaw, which can damage infrastructure and impact water and food security. The Arctic is warming at a rate three to four times faster than the global average, leading to ecological, social, and economic impacts.