Publication

This report provides an overview of Arctic-related issues for the US Congress based on the release of the national strategy document for the Arctic region in May 2013. The melting of Arctic sea ice has led to increased activity in the Arctic as well as concerns about the region's future. Issues such as sovereignty claims, commercial shipping, oil, gas, and mineral exploration, endangered species, and increased military operations could turn the region into an arena of international cooperation, one of competition, or one of conflict concludes the report.