Through this new framework, the UK will take a whole-of-government approach to the Arctic. Our approach will remain dynamic and responsive to changes in the region and across the globe. It outlines the full range of UK interests in the region, and sets out the long-term priorities and objectives which shape our engagement and actions on the Arctic. This latest policy framework brings together all the UK’s policies and strategies relevant to the Arctic under a single, integrated framework. Looking North continues to be guided by these principles as we refresh the UK’s approach to the Arctic in response to observed geopolitical, climatic, and environmental changes, both across the Arctic and in the UK. These principles endured through the UK’s updated policy framework that was published in 2018, ‘Beyond the Ice’. ‘Adapting to Change’ set out the UK’s approach towards the Arctic, based upon three principles of respect, cooperation, and appropriate leadership. The UK published its first Arctic Policy Framework in 2013. The UK fully respects the sovereign rights of the eight Arctic States and Indigenous people of the region, and is keen to play its part in ensuring the region remains peaceful. We are not an Arctic State, but as the nearest neighbour to the region, the Arctic is critical for UK interests, most notably in respect of our future climate and security. The Arctic matters to the United Kingdom. We are taking a positive and proactive approach to achieve our ambition for a stronger, cleaner, safer and more prosperous Arctic, while also standing up for our shared values across the world. This new policy framework sets out our enduring interest in the region, and our commitment to working with our Arctic partners and Allies to share experience and expertise for the benefit of all. Any development and economic activity in the region must be conducted to the highest standards, and in a safe and sustainable way to protect uniquely precious Arctic ecosystems. ![]() We also recognise that the fragile Arctic environment must be protected against the impacts of increased activity in the region. Under the UK’s Presidency at COP26 in 2021, the UK used our focus on nature and tackling the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss together to secure ambitious action through the Glasgow Climate Pact to reduce emissions and achieve a Net Zero transition that will protect and restore ocean health and resilience. The impacts on Arctic ecosystems and biodiversity will be devastating unless action is taken to tackle global climate change. We stand ready to protect and, where appropriate, assert our rights against those who wish to challenge the international order and freedom of navigation.Ĭlimate change poses an existential threat to the Arctic as we know it, with the region experiencing warming at four times the global average. We will work with our Arctic partners and Allies to contest malign and destabilising behaviours and activity in the region, and we will support efforts to reduce strategic dependence on Russia. Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has threatened the stability of the region, and has fundamentally undermined the peaceful cooperation that had characterised the Arctic Council since its inception in 1996. We have for many years committed to maintaining the Arctic as an area of high cooperation and low tension, and this remains the UK’s long-term strategic aspiration, but changes in the Arctic are bringing increased interest from Arctic and non-Arctic States alike. We know that changes in the Arctic environment are already affecting the UK through global sea-level rise, changes to our climate and weather patterns, and threats to our shared biodiversity. While the United Kingdom is not an Arctic State, we have a strong and enduring connection to the region as the Arctic’s nearest neighbour. ![]() The Arctic is one of the most rapidly changing regions of the world. The Rt Hon Lord Goldsmith, Minister of State responsible for the Polar Regions
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |