Connecting the Arctic While Installing Submarine Data Cables Between East Asia, North America and Europe

Abstract

The Arctic Connect Project aims to connect East Asia, North America and Europe by running a submarine fibre-optic cable through the Northeast Passage. Along with the Quintillion Submarine Cable System, which originates in Alaska, it is one of the most visible elements of the lively discussion concerning Arctic connectivity. This chapter clarifies the role of the European High North and other Arctic regions in such initiatives. The human security framework is utilised as a flexible conceptual tool for analysing the role of local people and local communities as well as the different meanings, hopes and fears associated with these international market-driven projects. The European High North serves as the spatial focus of the research, although references are also made to other geographical locations.