Policy

Trump’s 2025 executive order to boost Alaska oil and gas faces criticism from archaeologist Dr Charlotta Hillerdal, who argues that archaeology can become a political ally for Indigenous communities by linking heritage and climate resilience amid rapid Arctic warming.

The U.S. Department of War closed a $35.6 million strategic equity investment in Trilogy Metals’ Arctic Project, a polymetallic deposit in the Arctic, marking a key step toward developing critical mineral resources in the region.

Caribou were observed congregating in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge on June 28, 2024, illustrating wildlife activity in the region.

Sanikiluaq faces a Sept. 28 by‑election for its first MLA seat since 2021, with residents Nukaja Sala and Jason Iqaluq campaigning on local services and community development.

The article examines whether the EU’s Arctic strategy is adequate as climate change, geopolitical tensions, and economic interests increasingly reshape the region.

Senator Grassley urges Congress to reform nondisclosure orders used in the Arctic Frost program to prevent potential weaponization.

U.S. law now requires the Secretary of Transportation to craft a plan and collaborate on small unmanned aircraft use in the Arctic.

The NWT minister said the Taltson hydro expansion, which would add 60 MW and link communities across Great Slave Lake, will proceed even after the Deninu Kųę́ First Nation withdrew support, but the government plans to address the 60‑year‑old dam’s legacy through a steering committee and shared ownership.

Indigenous leaders at a Northwest Territories conference urged that new projects like the Arctic Corridor, Mackenzie Valley Highway and Taltson hydro expansion include Indigenous decision‑making and professional roles, and highlighted the need for smaller communities to share in benefits. The government responded with a workforce program offering up to $100 k to train residents for upcoming jobs.

The NWT government launches the Workforce Ready Program, offering up to $100,000 in grants to community and Indigenous governments to train residents for jobs on projects like the Mackenzie Valley Highway and the Arctic Economic and Security Corridor, with first applications opening in October.

In a 2024 call, former U.S. President Donald Trump proposed Iceland join the U.S. as its 51st state, a suggestion that Iceland’s government refused to disclose and sparked diplomatic backlash, highlighting tensions over Arctic sovereignty and international relations.

The NNA‑CO’s recent initiatives in the Arctic emphasize coproduction and Indigenous partnership, using Indigenous Pavilions at Arctic Science Summit Weeks to build relationships and highlight the importance of inclusive research as funding for the program approaches its end.

Russian tankers, such as the Boris Davydov, transport gas from the Arctic to European ports and shipyards, highlighting the Arctic's role in global energy logistics.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation reviewed bulk‑power system upgrades that were implemented to enhance reliability and coordination during the winter 2026 Arctic cold period, confirming that these measures improve system resilience to extreme Arctic winter conditions.

The Senate’s approval of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act could let the U.S. block Russia’s specialized LNG tankers that carry gas from the Yamal peninsula to Europe, potentially disrupting a key energy supply route.

Beyond Arctic PASSION has officially launched, aiming to build a coordinated Arctic Observing System of Systems that will help monitor and address challenges across the region.

India is studying Russia's Arctic LNG projects as part of its energy strategy, but U.S. sanctions limit investment opportunities.

Deninu Kųę́ First Nation has pulled support for the Taltson hydro expansion and the Arctic Economic and Security Corridor until the government and Indigenous partners formally acknowledge its historical impacts and agree to share benefits, citing exclusion from decision‑making and potential environmental harm.

Canada is investing through its Arctic Infrastructure Fund to create continuous all‑season connectivity across the Arctic, boosting year‑round transport and trade in the region.

Suncor’s plan to treat and release oil sands tailings into the Athabasca River has sparked opposition from Fort Chipewyan community leaders and the NWT government, who cite downstream health and environmental risks that could reach the Arctic Ocean.

Yellowknife’s mayor and arts advocate presented at the EU Arctic Forum on critical infrastructure gaps and youth‑led policy proposals, highlighting federal investment plans and the need for Indigenous‑led engagement in Arctic development.