Arctic: A stronger EU engagement for a greener, peaceful and prosperous Arctic

Today, the High Representative and the Commission put forward their approach for a stronger EU engagement for a peaceful, sustainable and prosperous Arctic. The Arctic region is of key strategic importance for the European Union, in view of climate change, raw materials as well as geostrategic influence. The Communication responds to these geopolitical, environmental, economic, security and social challenges and opportunities. It seeks to forster cooperation with partners on sustainable approaches to overcome them.

The EU will establish a European Commission office in Greenland, which will raise the profile of Arctic matters in the EU’s external relations. EU funding will also be directed towards driving the green transition in the Arctic, for the benefit of Arctic populations.

Ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) and in support of global climate action, the Communication calls for oil, coal and gas to remain in the ground.

See also the press release, the questions and answers and the factsheet on a stronger EU engagement for a peaceful, sustainable and prosperous Arctic.