The Arctic—Economic Growth or Future Battlefield?

The Strategy Bridge august 2017: Congratulations to Lars Lervik on his third place article, “The Arctic: Economic Growth or Future Battlefield?” in The Strategy Bridge’s first annual writing contest on strategy!

By Lars Lervik

The Arctic has always been important to Russia, and global warming has made previously unreachable natural resources like oil and gas accessible. It has also opened up new shipping routes thereby increasing the importance of the region. This article argues that even though Russia has emphasized international cooperation to promote economic development in the Arctic the last few years, it has simultaneously increased its military capabilities. Russia is thus preparing for future development in the Arctic that could include both international collaboration and conflict. This paper analyses Russian interests and policy in the Arctic, discusses Russian use of the economic and military instruments of power, and offers a summary of prospects for the future in the Arctic.
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