Arctic Geopolitics: Why the Melting of Ice is a Matter of Concern

In October 2018, a Russian tanker became the first vessel to traverse the Northern Sea Route without assistance from icebreakers, highlighting the accelerating pace of ice melting in the Arctic. While this may be seen as a triumph of technology, it also raises several concerns about the geopolitical implications of the melting of Arctic ice.

Lancaster University's Professor Piotr Dutkiewicz, an expert on Russian and Arctic affairs, recently advised the UK parliament on these issues, emphasizing the need for greater cooperation and governance in the region. In this article, we examine the key points of his advice and explore why the melting of Arctic ice is a matter of concern for the world.

The Strategic Importance of the Arctic

The Arctic region, which includes the Arctic Ocean and parts of Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Norway, and Russia, has long been a region of strategic importance due to its natural resources and strategic location. The melting of Arctic ice, which has accelerated in recent years due to climate change, has opened up new opportunities for shipping and resource extraction, sparking a race for control over the region.

According to Professor Dutkiewicz, the melting of Arctic ice has the potential to shift the balance of power in the world. He notes that the Arctic has traditionally been seen as a buffer zone between the major powers, but this is changing as the region becomes more accessible. Russia, in particular, sees the melting of Arctic ice as an opportunity to build up its military presence in the region and secure its northern borders.

The Risks of Geopolitical Tension

One of the key risks associated with the melting of Arctic ice is the potential for increased geopolitical tension in the region. As countries seek to claim control over the region, they may resort to aggressive tactics to achieve their goals. This could lead to military conflict, which would have devastating consequences for the region and the world.

Professor Dutkiewicz advises that the best way to avoid this scenario is for countries to work together to develop a comprehensive governance framework for the Arctic. This framework should include clear rules for resource extraction and shipping, as well as mechanisms for resolving disputes and preventing military conflict. By working together, countries can ensure that the melting of Arctic ice is managed in a peaceful and sustainable way.

The Economic Opportunities of the Arctic

Despite the potential risks, the melting of Arctic ice also presents significant opportunities for economic growth and development. As shipping routes become more accessible, new markets and industries will emerge, creating jobs and driving innovation. Resource extraction, particularly oil and gas, will also become more feasible, providing a new source of energy for the world.

However, the economic opportunities of the Arctic must be managed carefully to ensure that they benefit all people and not just a select few. Professor Dutkiewicz emphasizes the need for sustainable development in the region, which protects the environment and ensures that local communities benefit from economic growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the melting of Arctic ice is a matter of concern for the world due to its potential geopolitical, environmental, and economic implications. To manage these risks and opportunities, countries must work together to develop a comprehensive governance framework for the Arctic. By doing so, they can ensure that the region is managed in a sustainable and peaceful way, benefiting all people and protecting the environment for future generations.

References:

1. Piotr Dutkiewicz (2019) 'Russia's Arctic obsession – and why we should be worried', The Conversation. Available at: https://theconversation.com/russias-arctic-obsession-and-why-we-should-be-worried-113574 (Accessed: 19 July 2021).

2. Government of Canada (2021) 'The Arctic: A region of growing importance', Canadian Geographic. Available at: https://www.canadiangeographic.ca/article/arctic-region-growing-importance (Accessed: 19 July 2021).

3. Council on Foreign Relations (2021) 'The Arctic', CFR. Available at: https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/arctic (Accessed: 19 July 2021).

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Article Category: Climate Change, Global Politics, Sustainability