The impact of global warming on the geopolitics of the Arctic. A historical opportunity for Russia?

Abstract:

As of early 2010, climate change was expected to cause major physical, ecological, economic, social, and geopolitical adjustments. Arctic melting was providing new opportunities, not only to the five littoral states, but also to other major powers. However, Russia stood to gain most. Not only could it claim a major part of the Arctic, thus acquiring additional sovereign rights for the purpose of exploiting natural resources, but for the first time it would have unhindered access to the open seas and be in the position of controlling important sea routes. If exploitation of the Arctic and the use of new sea-lanes was to be developed in a controlled manner, the Arctic needed not become a region of confrontation. However, a long-term risk continues to exist of Arctic melting provoking a race for the North Pole area.

ESO: Background information: The Arctic: too hot to ignore? http://www.europeansources.info/record/the-arctic-too-hot-to-ignore/

ESO: Background information: Russia’s Arctic ambitions challenged http://www.europeansources.info/record/russias-arctic-ambitions-challenged/

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