STRASBOURG (France): The European Parliament adopted a comprehensive Arctic resolution that sets a new strategic direction for European engagement in the High North, placing cooperation with Norway and other Arctic states at the core of its emerging policy. The resolution, backed by a broad majority of MEPs, marks a shift from viewing the Arctic primarily as an environmental concern to recognizing its critical importance for Europe’s security, energy supplies, economic interests and geopolitical resilience.
The policy comes against a backdrop of intensifying geopolitical competition in the Arctic, where melting sea ice is opening new shipping routes and strategic access to resources. Russia’s expanded military footprint and China’s increasing economic initiatives in the region have heightened European interest in a coordinated approach. The resolution calls for enhanced cooperation with NATO, greater maritime domain awareness, coordinated surveillance and joint defense efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation and protect critical infrastructure in the region.
Central to the Parliament’s approach is strengthening ties with Arctic states, particularly Norway, which is seen as a key energy and defense partner. Norway supplies a significant share of natural gas to Europe and is a stable anchor for security cooperation in the region. The resolution envisages deeper engagement on renewable energy, digital connectivity including resilient subsea cable routes, sustainable fisheries, research and infrastructure projects that link the High North to continental Europe.
The Parliament argues that integrating the Arctic into the EU’s broader foreign and security policy is crucial for reducing reliance on external authoritarian suppliers and expanding European strategic autonomy. To support this, it recommends establishing a dedicated Arctic unit within the European External Action Service and strengthening the mandate of the EU Special Envoy for Arctic Matters.
The resolution also underscores compliance with international law and the full inclusion of Indigenous peoples in policy planning and decision-making. By placing Norway and other Arctic partners at the centre of its strategy, the EU aims to harness opportunities in energy diversification, environmental stewardship and sustainable development while addressing emerging security challenges in the Arctic.
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