Mixed messages from an ‘Arctic superpower’

Canada has extensive jurisdiction and sovereign rights in the Arctic. Perceived external threats on these rights force Canada to closely monitor geopolitical dynamics related to the region. According to P. Whitney Lackenbauer, Canada has a complex position on Arctic issues. On the one hand, it emphasizes sovereignty, national security, and national interests. On the other hand, Canada needs international cooperation and stewardship to ensure its national interests. This is an on-going dilemma. Therefore, much of the government’s rhetoric about threats to the Nordic region remains ambiguous. 

Auteur

P. Whitney Lackenbauer

Tags

Beschouwing, Canada, Noordpoolgebied, Reflection, Arctic

Foto: Flickr/Matt Boman/CC BY 2.0