Draft EU Arctic strategy puts greater emphasis on security and maritime infrastructure

The European Union is preparing an Arctic strategy with a stronger focus on security, maritime infrastructure and monitoring the region. Politico, AFP and Bloomberg reported on the draft ahead of its planned presentation on October 20.

A draft seen by AFP envisages joint purchases of icebreakers and shared use with partners. It also includes undersea cables, satellite connectivity and information-sharing to monitor shipping and threats to subsea infrastructure.

Politico describes a shift towards greater attention to geopolitics and security. The previous approach was developed against the backdrop of the European Green Deal. The draft links the changed priorities to a deterioration in the regional situation after 2022.

The wording on hydrocarbons is also changing. Bloomberg reported that the draft it reviewed does not explicitly mention a moratorium on new drilling, unlike the previous strategy. It still calls for fossil fuels to remain in the ground, including in the Arctic, and prioritises renewable energy and hydrocarbons from outside the region.

AFP reported that the proposed policy would deepen cooperation with partners outside the EU, including Canada, Britain and Norway.