EU-US cooperation to enhance Arctic marine governance

Abstract

Enhanced transatlantic cooperation can help leverage emerging opportunities to improve protection of the Arctic marine environment. Through both international and domestic action, the European Union (EU) and United States (US) can work together to promote environmental leadership and shape agendas and policy making. This chapter examines the shared objectives and interests of the EU and US in the marine Arctic. With this common ground in mind, the chapter examines areas of opportunity for addressing shortcomings in the international legal and policy framework of the marine Arctic through transatlantic action. The need to support a more integrated, ecosystem-based approach to governance is highlighted as a necessary way forward, although sector-based gaps and policy options for the areas of fisheries, shipping, and offshore hydrocarbon development are also considered. The role of indigenous peoples in Arctic decision making and governance is emphasized. Finally, the chapter considers the need for joint action in tackling Arctic governance's greatest underlying challenge: climate change.