Arctic. A race of strategic influence in the northern hemisphere

Seminar paper from the year 2022 in the subject Earth Science / Geography - Geopolitics, grade: 1,0, University of Wroc?aw (Institute of Political Science), course: Hybrid and Transnational Threats in Euro Atlantic and Indo Pacific regions, language: English, abstract: The text discusses the increasing interest and involvement of major global powers, particularly the European Union (EU) and China, in the Arctic region due to rising temperatures and melting ice. It highlights the shift in the Arctic's significance and the strategic interests of various nations, including the EU's collaboration aspirations with Arctic states and China's focus on its Belt and Road Initiative. The text emphasizes the shortened trade routes and the strategic importance for both the EU and China, potentially leading to future conflicts over influence in the region. It outlines the involvement of actors like the Arctic Council and identifies three significant junctures that have changed the region's dynamics. The paper aims to explore the interests of the EU and China in the Arctic, their abilities to achieve their goals, and the potential risks, challenges, and opportunities for the region and the international community. It proposes three scenarios, from worst to best case, while suggesting the necessity for all involved parties to take actions to prevent misunderstandings and reduce the chances of escalation, although policy advice is beyond the paper's scope.