Norway’s Arctic Policy 2023: A 12-Month Outlook

The different Norwegian High North Policies (first 2005, second 2011) initially led to highly positive regional developments and cooperation, especially between Oslo and Moscow. However, and because of geopolitical changes such as Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and the subsequent tensions and sanctions; Oslo’s interest in they initially perceived as a highly promising territory decreased [source] [source].

Norway adopted its third Arctic Policy in 2020. This policy is based on Oslo’s traditional idea and needs to balance relations between the US and its Russian neighbor. However, in the last years the “Arctic context” is characterised by a greater prominence of security aspects and an increasing power competition. Indeed, the recent major heightening of geopolitical tensions between US and NATO, and Russia as a result of the Russo-Ukrainian War threatens the relatively peaceful environment that traditionally characterises the Arctic region [source] [source].

Despite this relatively critical and tense situation, and the estimated increase of US and NATO presence in the Arctic and in Norway’s High North sovereign territory. it is highly likely that Oslo will seek to de-escalate the situation and continue with its “balancing strategy”.

Norway
Russian Bastion Defence in relation to Norway and the Bear and GIUK Gaps [source]. The GIUK gap is a series of strategic routes between Greenland, Iceland, and the United Kingdom. [source].
Rest of this post is for paying members only

Already have an account?  Log in

Free Plan
Free
Secret Plan
$14.99
/ month
Recommended
Top Secret Plan
$39.99
/ month
Free Plan
Free
Secret Plan
$14.99
/ month
Recommended
Top Secret Plan
$39.99
/ month
Table of Contents

Related Content

Secret

Canada and the US: The Forgotten Border?

Location:_ North America
Secret

HTS-led Syria: Security and Police Restructuring

Location:_ MENA
Secret

Ukrainian Intelligence Operations: 2025 Forecast

Secret

John Ratcliffe: New CIA Chief Guns For Strategic Adversaries

Location:_ North America
Secret

M23 Capture of Goma: A Prelude for War Declaration and Food Crisis

Location:_ Central Africa
Secret

US Special Forces Pivot to Strategic Threats: Back to the Roots?

Location:_ North America

Stay in the loop

Get a free weekly email that makes reading intel articles and reports actually enjoyable.

Log in

Stay in the loop

Get a free weekly email that makes reading Intelligence Reports and Articles actually enjoyable.

Table of Contents

Contact

Contact

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.