Geopolitical Significance of the Arctic

The Arctic has long been an area of geopolitical interest, driven primarily by its resources and strategic positioning. As ice melts due to climate change, previously inaccessible trade routes emerge, making the Arctic economically attractive for nations vying for control. The geography of the region includes the Arctic Ocean and territories of five key nations: Russia, the United States, Canada, Norway, and Denmark. These nations are engaged in a race not only to secure their territorial claims but also to capitalize on the rich resources—estimated to contain a significant portion of the world’s remaining natural gas and oil reserves.