Governance in the Circumpolar Region: complicating the governance trajectory of the Arctic Council

The Arctic currently holds a prominent global profile triggered by the dramatic environmental changes being observed in the region. In this context, the Arctic Council is being presented as an important forum to influence regional policymaking; however, many observers argue that the Council’s future success depends on its ability to evolve from a policy “talkshop” to a formal international decision-making body. This presentation proposes to critically assess the proposition that the Arctic Council can have a greater impact on the region’s environmental, social and economic outcomes by acquiring more formal authority. It seeks to expand our understanding of those factors that have made the Arctic Council a “success” and consider what this means for its future.

Jennifer Spence, PhD Candidate, SPPA