Canada’s claim to the Northwestern Passage: geopolitical aspirations and security dilemmas
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25062/2955-0289.4888Keywords:
Arctic, geopolitics, international security, marine safetyAbstract
This article analyzes the dynamics surrounding the Northwestern Passage in the Arctic, based on two theoretical perspectives: international relations and geopolitics. It assesses the implications of Canada's sovereignty claim according to its legal and geopolitical arguments, as it is an issue that transcends the economic and affects its territorial integrity and regional power. It also addresses the reactions of the Arctic States and the Arctic Council to these Canadian aspirations, in order to understand the dynamics of regional cooperation and the growing security dilemmas for countries with interests in this region, given the increase in economic and shipping activities due to the progressive melting of the Arctic ice.
Author Biography
Sofia Correa Merchan, Escuela Superior de Guerra “General Rafael Reyes Prieto”, Colombia
Magíster en estrategia y política de la Escuela Superior de Guerra “General Rafael Reyes Prieto”, Bogotá, Colombia.
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