Geopolitical Issues in the Arctic Region
The Arctic is without a single regimen to govern state behavior it is surrounded by eight highly developed states that compete for their own interests Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the United States. Disputes over sovereignty such as determination of borders exclusive economic zones (EEZ’s) and access to marine passages are geopolitical issues that tend to dominate the most. Improvement technologies and market conditions have facilitated access to the Arctic regions natural resources. Climate change issues have affected the Arctic geopolitics. Melting sea ice cap is speculated to lead to increase usability of Northwest Passage for shipments of goods between Europe and Asia. Melting sea ice cap has also facilitated efforts to carry out mapping exercises.
Geopolitical issues are not exclusively conflicts over interest they also reflect cooperation amongst nations, multilateral initiatives such as the Arctic Environmental Protection Strategy 1991 signed an agreement to protect the Arctics marine environment and conserves flora and fauna. The Arctic Council was established in 1996 and it takes on the functions which concern the environment, and which, social and economic matters are discussed.