Canada’s claim to the Northwestern Passage: geopolitical aspirations and security dilemmas

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25062/2955-0289.4888

Keywords:

Arctic, geopolitics, international security, marine safety

Abstract

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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How to Cite

Correa Merchan, S. (2024) “Canada’s claim to the Northwestern Passage: geopolitical aspirations and security dilemmas”, Estrategia, Poder y Desarrollo, 3(6), pp. 185–204. doi: 10.25062/2955-0289.4888.

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Published

2024-12-30

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