Arctic Watch

Facts About the Arctic

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Facts About the Arctic in April 2025

JAXA/ViSHOP extent finished the month of March “lowest for the date” once again: However, since then the graph has been “flatlining” and extent is now above 2019 and rapidly approaching the rest of the recent pack. At the end of…

The Arctic Ocean as Kin: Rethinking Law through Relational Care

As sea ice melts and ocean temperatures rise, the region faces escalating threats such as ocean acidification, increased pollution, and disrupted migratory patterns, with consequences that ripple far beyond the Arctic itself.

Cooperation between the Greenlandic Inuit and the other indigenous peoples of the Arctic

In her speech, Laue paid special attention to Greenland’s economic difficulties, especially its dependence on Denmark’s annual subsidies.

Looking Back on Norway’s Chairship of The Arctic Council: “You Have to Be Respectful to All Members”

Chair of the Arctic Council, Morten Høglund, reflects on the two years that have passed and Norway taking over the chairship from a Russia at war.

Saami Council Criticizes E.U.’s Raw Materials Plan

The statement raised particular concern about the Act’s fast-track permitting system, which the Council argues sidelines the right to free, prior and informed consent.

Arctic Military Leaders Convene Over Hybrid Threats

The meeting, held near the Norwegian-Russian border, included discussions on countering the growing militarization of the Russian Arctic and surrounding waters.

Danish Prime Minister visits Greenland amid Trump’s bid for Arctic control

Tensions between the United States and Denmark have soared since Trump has said repeatedly he wanted to take control of the resource-rich Arctic island for security reasons.

Thawing Grounds, Rising Stakes: The Importance of Including Permafrost Emissions in Climate Policy

Most Arctic nations recognize permafrost thaw as a threat in their broader climate policies but stop short of formalizing these emissions in their NDCs and national targets.

US Federal Judge Clears Path for Drilling in Arctic Wildlife Refuge

The decision vacates the Department’s lease cancellation, clearing the way for oil and gas drilling in the Refuge’s coastal plain.