Document Type
Article
Disciplines
International Law
Abstract
Melting ice and receding coastlines have provided new opportunities for Arctic nations to expand their geopolitical and economic reach north of the Arctic Circle. Commercial entities are rushing to take possession of newly accessible oil fields, shipping companies are making preparations to operate on newly available navigational lanes, and Arctic nations are developing arguments to maintain sovereignty over previously unclaimed sections of the Continental Shelf. Unlike the "Antarctic Treaty", there are no international treaties to set ground rules for political or commercial activities in the Arctic. Arctic nations and commercial entities have, instead, moved quickly to take control of their preferred part of the region by simply rushing to arrive first. In some instances, native populations with limited political power stand to lose economic opportunities after being overpowered by multinational corporations or land-grabbing countries. There is little international guidance on the protection of natural resources, which are diminishing with the destabilizing effects of a changing climate. The implementation of a comprehensive "Arctic Treaty" would stimulate cooperation in the Arctic and place limitations on activities that have a detrimental impact on native populations and environmentally sensitive areas.
Recommended Citation
Milliken, Paul, "International Agreement for a Healthy Arctic Future" (2019). Connecticut Journal of International Law. 598.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/cjil/598
Accessibility Requirements
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