INTERNATIONAL POLICY ANALYSIS The Arctic A Diverse and Evolving Region PETRA DOLATA September 2015 „ „ The Arctic is not one homogenous area but many different regions. Natural environments and historical developments as well as political, economic and social circumstances vary across the Arctic and as a consequence the Arctic plays very different roles in domestic and foreign policies of respective Arctic states. „ „ While the Arctic is impacted by global developments such as low commodity prices and climate change, it persists at the same time as a unique political space which remains relatively unaffected by current geopolitical antagonisms outside the region. The dual global-regional nature of the Arctic complicates discussions of who the legitimate actors are, ranging from insiders to outsiders of the region as well as state and non-state actors, all of whom claim political authority. „ „ There has been no race or scramble for resources and territory in the Arctic. Since 2007, when a Russian flag was planted on the seabed at the North Pole drawing worldwide media attention to the region, a number of agreements have been reached that contribute to increased security and cooperation. One of the most important institutions remains the intergovernmental, circumpolar Arctic Council which is transforming from a soft law, functionalist organization to one with stronger competencies and permanent administrative structures.