戴瑛、张明月：北极治理困境应如何突围

Core Viewpoint - The European Union requires a new Arctic policy as geopolitical tensions increase in the Arctic region, with NATO initiating military planning, indicating a shift from a relatively closed geopolitical space to one influenced by major power competition [1] Group 1: Current Challenges in Arctic Governance - The Arctic Council's principle of consensus is failing due to US-Russia tensions, leading to decision-making deadlock and ineffective collective action [2] - The imbalance of rights for observer countries exacerbates governance challenges, weakening the Council's inclusivity and complicating global Arctic governance [2] - The protection of indigenous rights is becoming increasingly superficial, as the Council lacks effective enforcement mechanisms, rendering protective measures largely symbolic [2] - Geopolitical competition is overshadowing climate governance, preventing the Council from addressing global challenges effectively and transforming it into a platform for power struggles [2] Group 2: Recommendations for Improvement - Strengthening political will to adhere to international law is essential for establishing a legal foundation for Arctic governance, with frameworks like the UN Charter and the Law of the Sea serving as baseline guidelines [3] - Reforming the Arctic Council's governance mechanism is crucial for enhancing its effectiveness, including adjusting the consensus principle and expanding the participation rights of observer countries [3] - Promoting practical cooperation and dialogue among nations is fundamental to alleviating competitive tensions, as evidenced by initiatives like China and Europe exploring renewable energy cooperation in Greenland [3] - Redefining security and development perspectives is necessary for sustainable Arctic governance, emphasizing the importance of addressing non-traditional threats like climate change [3] Group 3: Future Implications for Arctic Development - The strategic choices of Arctic nations and the reform of governance mechanisms will determine whether the region becomes a site of conflict or collaboration, impacting global interests [4] - Upholding multilateralism and respecting international law and indigenous rights are vital for constructing an inclusive Arctic governance system that benefits humanity [4] - The traditional wisdom of indigenous peoples serves as a guiding principle for addressing current governance challenges, emphasizing the relationship between humanity and the land [4]