EU sets out a new Strategy for the Arctic

Today, the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy presented a new Strategy for the Arctic. The Strategy presents a new framework of political cooperation for like-minded partners that places people, security, climate and prosperity at its core. It has four priorities: strengthening security and resilience, responding to climate change in the Arctic, prosperity, and opportunities for people and communities in the Arctic.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said: “The Arctic is Europe's Northern Neighbourhood - close, connected and critical to our future. And it is changing. New shipping routes and resources are driving strategic competition. With our new Strategy, we are investing in stronger security, resilient infrastructure and economic opportunities. For the benefit of the people who call the Arctic home, and for our shared space.”

The EU is part of the Arctic: more than half a million EU citizens live there. With the Kingdom of Denmark, Finland and Sweden as Arctic EU Member States, and close ties with Norway, Iceland, the UK, Canada and the United States, the developments in the Arctic directly affect Europe's security, the climate, and our prosperity.

The Arctic is changing fast. It is warming nearly four times faster than the global average, affecting ecosystems, changing livelihoods and communities. New shipping routes and uncovering resources are reshaping Arctic's security and economic landscape, resulting in increasing geopolitical tensions, strategic competition and military activity.

Following extensive consultations with Arctic stakeholders, the Strategy proposes concrete measures to promote a stable and future-proof Arctic, in close cooperation with Arctic partners, local communities including Indigenous Peoples and in their interest.

The new Strategy sets out four priorities in response to this evolving context: