More

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

    Share

    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].
    The rest of this content is locked and only accessible to Secret Plan, Top Secret Plan, Secret Plan Annual , and Top Secret Plan Annual members only.
    Login Join Now
    Ignacio Urrutia
    Ignacio Urrutia
    Ignacio is a Spanish intelligence analyst passionate and with deep knowledge of Central and Eastern Europe and MENA. As part of his Master in Security, Intelligence and Strategic Studies, he is specializing in intelligence, defence and new warfare.

    Table of contents

    Newsletter

    Get the weekly email from Grey Dynamics that makes reading intel articles and reports actually enjoyable. Join our mailing list to stay in the loop for free!

    Related contents

    Subscribe to our Newsletter!
    I agree to receive the latest emails
    and offers from Grey Dynamics.
    Intelligence
    not Information
    Subscribe Now
    Subscribe to our Newsletter!
    I agree to receive the latest emails
    and offers from Grey Dynamics.
    Intelligence
    not Information
    Subscribe Now
    Learn to create professional videos and have fun in the process of creating videos.
    Video Review And Collaboration.
    Get Started