Key facts
- Twelve EU member states, including Germany, France, and the Netherlands, have urged the EU to take a more strategic and proactive role in the European Arctic.
- The call was made in a joint statement following a summit in northern Finland.
- The statement cited growing geopolitical tensions and geo-economic competition in the region, particularly in light of Russia's actions.
- EU Council President António Costa and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz were among those present at the summit.
Twelve European Union member states have called for the bloc to adopt a more strategic and proactive stance in the European Arctic, citing increasing geopolitical tensions and competition in the region. The joint statement, issued on Monday, emphasized the need for the EU to treat the Arctic as a strategic border area, particularly in the context of threats from Russia.
The call comes as the Arctic faces profound changes driven by climate change and rising geopolitical and geo-economic competition. The region is home to Indigenous peoples, resilient communities, and unique ecosystems, and developments there have far-reaching impacts beyond its borders. The EU has stated its commitment to supporting sustainable development and addressing challenges in the region through cooperation with like-minded partners.
The EU's current Arctic policy, adopted in October 2021, focuses on protecting the climate and environment, supporting sustainable development, and promoting peace, stability, and cooperation. In response to Russia's war against Ukraine, the EU has suspended cooperation with Russia and Belarus in several regional frameworks. The EU plans to update its Arctic Policy in 2026, addressing security, defense, connectivity, and economic security in light of the evolving geopolitical landscape.