INTERNATIONAL OCEAN POLICY AND THE ARCTIC
What happens in the UN, the EU, and on global arenas for ocean governance has direct consequences for everyday life in the North. New regulations, geopolitical rivalry, and shifts in the framework of the law of the sea affect harvesting, value creation, and Norway’s room for manoeuvre as an ocean nation. In the Arctic, these effects are particularly evident – where global politics, climate change, and fragile ecosystems converge.
For the Centre for the Ocean and the Arctic, this topic is about building bridges: how can international decisions be understood and applied in a Norwegian and Arctic context – and how can northern and Arctic perspectives gain a stronger voice where ocean policy is being shaped?
Through analyses, projects, and meeting arenas, we explore:
- how global ocean policy influences Norwegian ocean industries and framework conditions in the North
- how the Arctic is affected by new geopolitical constellations – and what this means for cooperation and governance
- how international conservation goals, such as 30x30, are balanced against fishing rights and industrial interests
- how EU regulations and processes, such as marine spatial planning and the Ocean Pact, impact Norway
- how Norway’s position is influenced by issues such as seabed minerals and international negotiations
- what Norway can learn from other Arctic states facing similar challenges
International ocean policy is not only about rules and agreements. It is about ensuring predictability for coastal communities, fair competition for businesses, and sustainable management of the ocean areas we depend on.
By closely following developments – and participating where policy is shaped – the Centre for the Ocean and the Arctic helps make Norway’s voice heard and strengthens understanding of how global ocean governance affects the High North.
International Roles
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
Jan-Gunnar Winther was one of the lead authors of Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis. His participation provides the Centre for the Ocean and the Arctic with a strong scientific foundation for linking climate change with the ocean and the Arctic. (Jan-Gunnar Winther)
World Economic Forum – Friends of Ocean Action
A global network driving solutions to ocean challenges. Through this work, the Centre gains early insight into the trends and priorities shaping international ocean policy. (Jan-Gunnar Winther)
China Council for Cooperation on Environment and Development
An advisory body to the Chinese government on climate and environmental issues. Winther’s participation gives the Centre access to unique perspectives on how major powers approach ocean policy. (Jan-Gunnar Winther)
Expert Group for the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy
This expert group advises heads of government in developing policies for a sustainable ocean economy. The Centre for the Ocean and the Arctic helps bring Norwegian and Arctic experience into this work and led the Ocean Panel’s report on integrated ocean management. (Jan-Gunnar Winther)
Horizon Europe – Mission Board “Restore our Ocean and Waters”
The EU’s flagship initiative for ocean and water policy towards 2030, with a particular focus on the Atlantic–Arctic region. Participation gives the Centre a voice in shaping Europe’s ocean policy. (Jan-Gunnar Winther)
United Arab Emirates Polar Program Board
A platform that promotes polar research and collaboration with new partners. Through this, the Centre gains access to partnerships and perspectives from countries investing in polar policy. (Jan-Gunnar Winther)
Publikasjoner
Arktis står overfor raske fysiske og geopolitiske endringer. Notatet diskuterer hvordan næringslivet kan bidra til stabilitet og bærekraftig forvaltning i en mer kompleks region.
Conversations in Washington, D.C. offered new perspectives on how the United States views the ocean, the Arctic, and climate issues – and on the need for stronger international cooperation going forward.
Over recent years, the global society has realised the ocean’s significance in ensuring our prosperity and health. We turn to the ocean for food, energy, transportation, and recreation, and will increasingly do so in the future.
