Publication

Once a marginal region in global politics and economics, the Arctic is becoming more and more important, due in large part to climate change. This paper argues that the thawing of the Arctic ice shield opens up new economic possibilities, such as easier access to raw materials and shorter shipping distances and opportunities for cooperation. It also presents potential for conflict. According to the author, the potential for conflict exists mainly where sovereign and exploitation rights cannot be clarified under existing international law. The risk of a military escalation, however, remains low.