Update of the EU Arctic policy

Contribution from Imperial College London to the EU Arctic Policy Update 2026: This submission responds to the European Commissions Call for Evidence on the update of the EU Arctic Policy and draws on research conducted at the Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London.

A new EU Arctic Strategy should operate in synergy with the recognition of the region's key role in ensuring European strategic autonomy in the critical raw materials value chain. Possessing the greatest concentration of priority projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act also comes with facing the greatest corresponding social and economic strains on local communities for the sake of safeguarding our common…

Natur og Ungdom is a member organization, representing around 5000 young Norwegians between the ages 13 to 25. We would like to thank you for this opportunity to give comments on the EU´s Arctic Strategy. Moratorium on fossil fuel extraction in the Arctic regions Natur og Ungdom fully support a moratorium on fossil fuel extraction in the Arctic regions.

From: John Nissen, on behalf of Planetary Restoration Action Group (PRAG) PRAG has a 50-year plan for restoring the planet to a safe, sustainable, biodiverse and productive state. The plan necessarily involves refreezing the Arctic, cooling the rest of the planet, and removing a trillion tons of CO2 from the atmosphere.

We believe an updated EU Arctic Policy could benefit from strengthening the following 6 points: 1. Arctic Council and multilateral cooperation: more cooperation rather than isolation: The revised EU Arctic Policy should promote stronger operational cooperation between the Arctic Council, the UN system and other multilateral environmental agreements, as well its observers ensuring dedicated resources and structured…

The Ocean is the treasure of humanity, the lungs of this Planet, the cradle of the Vivant. It is enduring, inventive, generous and makes no difference. But to give it too much exhaustion, the man exhausts it to the racketter tirelessly. He is now ill and will die quickly in silence without strong, effective and immediate care by us.

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Polar science plays a central role in advancing the European Unions objectives for preparedness, sustainability, and security. Strong and sustained EU support for polar research is therefore essential. Polar regions are warming faster than the global average, with profound consequences for Indigenous peoples, Arctic residents, Europe, and the world, such as rising sea levels directly threatening European coastlines…

Europaforum Northern Sweden makes the following response to the call for evidence on the current EU Arctic Policy: North Sweden, East and North Finland, and North Norway in the Northern Sparsely Populated Areas (NSPA) values the EU Arctic Policy's aim to support a peaceful, sustainable and prosperous Arctic, with focus on Arctic regional development.

East and North Finland EU Office support NSPA statement: Northern Sparsely Populated Areas (NSPA) values the EU Arctic Policy's aim to support a peaceful, sustainable and prosperous Arctic, with focus on local development. The policy will gain from a more integrated and cohesive approach between the three pillars.

Response to the European Commissions Call for Evidence on the Update of the EU Arctic Policy by the Polar Research Committee of the Estonian Academy of Sciences The Polar Research Committee of the Estonian Academy of Sciences is an advisory body whose tasks include coordinating polar research and information exchange in Estonia and advising on polar governance.

Recommendation: Maintain the EU Arctic Oil and Gas Moratorium The European Union should maintain its commitment to an international moratorium on new Arctic oil and gas exploration, including in the Barents Sea, in the upcoming update of its Arctic policy. Recent geopolitical events are being used to pressure the EU to lift the moratorium.

The EU Arctic Policy review offers a chance to reaffirm the principles of the 2021 Joint Communication. Climate change, melting ice, and geopolitics are reshaping the region. These developments should reinforce the EUs precautionary approach, not justify the expansion of fossil fuel (FF) and critical raw material (CRM) extraction, for three core concerns: 1.

Arctic Six input to the EU Arctic Policy update The Arctic Six welcomes the ECs update of the EU Arctic Policy. As an alliance of universities rooted in the European Arctic, we support retaining the three pillars of the 2021 JC, while updating their implementation to reflect the post-2022 context, accelerating climate change and the importance of the European Arctic.

The activity of IEO CSIC in the Arctic is mainly linked to the activity of the trawl fishing fleet for cod in the area of Svalbard and Barents Sea (ICES Divisions IIB and Subarea I) under the 1920 Paris Agreement, and the redfish fishery in ICES Division IIA in international and national waters of Norway under the EU-Norway Fisheries Agreement.

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The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Regional Office for Europe, in consultation with and UNESCO Liaison Office in Brussels and UNESCO Representation to the EU, welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the updates to the European Arctic Policy. We note and welcome several references to human rights in the European Arctic Policy.

EU's Arctic Policy should include the provision of an integrated, transdisciplinary framework encouraging monitoring and assessing the status of Arctic pollution and climate change and their cumulative effects on ecosystems and humans with the following core objectives: Assess Synergetic Stressors: To investigate how climate change and chemical pollution (such as PFAS and Chemicals of Emerging Arctic Concern) act as…

IOGP Europe represents the upstream oil and gas industry in Europe. We welcome the opportunity to contribute to the Commissions call for evidence on its Arctic Policy. The European Arctic includes important hydrocarbon basins that provide a significant portion of the Norwegian oil and gas production that is imported into the European Union and contributes to both the EUs security of energy supply and delivering…

LO Norway refers to the European Commissions call for evidence on an updated EU Arctic strategy. The Arctic is a region of global significance, where policies for climate, security, energy, labour and economic development intersect.

EuroGOOS and its Arctic Regional Ocean Observing System (Arctic ROOS) welcome the update of the EU Arctic Policy and emphasise that effective Arctic governance requires sustained, coordinated, and science driven ocean and cryosphere observation. Rapid changes in the Arctic influence climate and weather-related hazards, food security and human well-being, and the blue economy far beyond the region itself.

The Clean Arctic Alliance is a coalition of 24 non-profit groups collaborating to address the impact of international shipping on the Arctic. The Clean Arctic Alliances response to the EU Arctic Strategy consultation recognises the current geopolitical climate and the role of Indigenous Peoples in decision-making on Arctic policy.

The Consellería do Mar de la Xunta de Galicia thanks the European Commission and the European External Action Service for opening this call for evidence and expresses its general support for updating the EU’s Arctic policy.

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Samorka, the association of energy companies and utilities in Iceland, welcomes the upcoming update of European Union Arctic Policy. As an Arctic state Iceland has major interests in keeping the Arctic region stable, secure and sustainable.

KONGSBERG supports the European Commissions initiative to update the EU Arctic Policy. Increased activity and strategic competition in the region underline the need for an updated policy that strengthens Europes security and supports its strategic autonomy.

Oceans North Kalaallit Nunaat (ONKN) is a Greenland-based NGO working at the intersection of Arctic ocean governance, science, and Greenlandic civil society. We welcome the opportunity to contribute to the update of the EU Arctic Policy and submit the following key recommendations. Greenland as a distinct political actor.

Vår Energi is a leading oil and gas company built on more than 50 years of experience on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. With ownership interests in around half of all producing fields, we are the third-largest oil and gas producer on the Norwegian shelf, and one of Norways largest exporters of gas to Europe.

The Agencia Estatal Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (Spanish National Research Council, CSIC) contributes to the European Commissions Call for Evidence by outlining its scientific expertise and strategic vision for updating the EU Arctic Policy, recognising the rapid environmental, geopolitical, socioeconomic and technological changes affecting the region.

The Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC) supports the key objectives for the update of the EU Arctic Policy, specifially as related to promoting conservation and sustainable fisheries management; combatting climate change to preserve Arctic ecosystems; and promoting peace, stability, and cooperation.

The Arctic Circle Assembly, held annually in Reykjavík, is the largest international gathering dedicated to Arctic affairs, bringing together thousands of participants from governments, research institutions, Indigenous organizations, businesses, civil society, and international institutions across more than 70 countries.

The National Research Council of Italy (CNR) welcomes the initiative of the European Com-mission to update the EU Arctic Policy at a time when the Arctic is experiencing unprecedent-ed environmental transformation and growing geopolitical relevance. Addressing these dy-namics requires a policy framework firmly grounded in scientific knowledge, sustained obser-vation capabilities, and international cooperation.

Thank you for the initiative to update the EU Arctic Policy. We represent the Finnmark county organisation of the Norwegian Society for the Conservation of Nature, and are as such situated entirely above the Arctic Circle. We further have four sub-organisations in Finnmark county, and work daily to conserve the nature in the Arctic with 653 members in Norways northernmost county.

Equinor is an international energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low-carbon future. Equinor is the largest supplier of natural gas from the Norwegian continental shelf to Europe, helping ensure energy security in times of change and uncertainty. At the same time, we are investing in innovative solutions across offshore wind, solar, and battery storage to support Europes energy transition.

The European Federation of Geologists (EFG) welcomes the European Commissions initiative to update the EU Arctic Policy. The Arctic is undergoing rapid environmental, geopolitical and economic transformation, creating both opportunities and significant risks.

Consultation response EU Arctic Policy Update. We welcome the Commissions initiative to update the EUs Arctic Policy. In our view, safeguarding the Arctic requires maintaining the EUs commitment to a moratorium on new hydrocarbon exploration north of the Arctic Circle and establishing a clear timeline for phasing out existing Arctic oil and gas activities. The Arctic is one of the planets most fragile ecosystems.

CREAF (Centre de Recerca Ecològica i Aplicacions Forestals) welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the update of the EU Arctic Policy. As a research center specializing in terrestrial ecology and global change, we offer the following evidence-based recommendations. 1.

VTT, the Technical Research Centre of Finland, provides deep-tech expertise, R&I infrastructure, and long-term innovation support under its national mandate to foster technology-driven business growth. VTT bridges research, commercialization and industrial scale-up. VTT, strongly supports the European Commissions update of the EU Arctic Policy.

The Arctic Ocean has so far been mostly protected from exploitation by its remoteness, sea ice and harsh conditions. The Nordic polar region is one of the areas most affected by climate change. The significant rise in temperature will have enormous impacts on people and nature in the Arctic. Changing landscapes and weather condition already open new economic opportunities and alter current ways of living.

Contribution to the public consultation on the update of the EU Arctic Policy Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence on Just Fossil Fuel Transitions University of Padova 1. The Arctic climate crisis The Arctic is undergoing profound environmental and geopolitical transformations.

The Arctic is undergoing rapid change and geopolitical shifts, creating challenges and opportunities for the EU. Mitigation, adaptation, and coordinated responses to security risks are urgent priorities. The EU Arctic Policy should ensure science-based and strategic engagement, focusing on three key priority areas. 1.

The Norwegian Society for the Conservation of Nature recommends that the EU maintain a commitment to a moratorium on Arctic hydrocarbon activities and establish a timeline for phasing out oil and gas imports from north of the Arctic Circle, especially in the Barents Sea. We strongly encourage the EU to resist the aggressive Norwegian push for Arctic oil and gas.

The Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change (CMCC) welcomes the update of the European Union Arctic Policy and supports a vision of the Arctic based on scientific cooperation, climate responsibility, and sustainable development. The Arctic is changing rapidly as a result of climate change and has become a contested ground for geopolitical dominance.

The Arctic is undergoing rapid geopolitical, environmental and economic change. Climate change, emerging maritime transport routes and access to natural resources are reshaping the regions dynamics. A resilient Arctic policy should therefore contribute simultaneously to environmental protection, resilience, technological leadership and the stability of Europes northern regions.

The European Arctic is becoming increasingly important for Europes security, energy supply and sustainable economic development. Strong Arctic communities and resilient infrastructure are essential to meet these challenges.

Anchored in the objectives of REPowerEU, the White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030, and the ongoing revision of the EUs Energy Security Framework, Offshore Norge sets out the following recommendations for the update of the EU Arctic Policy: 1) The Commission should align the EUs Arctic Policy with energy security policy objectives, including security of supply, diversification and resilience, and closer…

Whereas climate change in the Arctic continues at a faster pace than expected, reinforcing the need for an updated, operationally relevant and knowledge-based approach; The strategy should give more weight to long-term and integrated observation systems, complementing satellite data with in-situ observations in seas, ice and other areas that are currently insufficiently observed.

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The Swedish Polar Research Secretariat (SPRS) is grateful for the opportunity to provide feedback on the upcoming revised Arctic Policy of the European Union. Polar research plays a key role in the development of knowledge related to climate change and the environment, and the secretariat is dedicated to raising awareness of the polar regions with the aim of promoting high-quality polar research and the…

The EU Arctic policy set out in the EU Joint Communication on a reinforced Arctic Policy (2021) remains relevant for peaceful and constructive dialogue and cooperation in a changing geopolitical landscape; to address the ecological, social, economic and political challenges arising from climate change and to support the inclusive and sustainable development of Arctic regions.

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EU's Arctic Strategy Comments by Klimakultur SA, an NGO based in Norway. We appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on the EUs Arctic strategy. The climate and nature crisis is a direct threat not only to ecosystems and biodiversity, it's also threatening the living conditions of artists, cultural heritage, and Indigenous Peoples in the Arctic region as well as the rest of the world.

The Association of Municipalities Jämtland Härjedalen consists of eight member municipalities in the Swedish Arctic. Our geography is one of the most sparesly populated areas in Europe, and in a geopolitically strategic position between the port of Trondheim and the Bothnian Sea. The association welcomes the revision of the EU Arctic Policy at this time.

As an organization committed to a fair and science-based transition away from fossil fuels, we emphasise that the EUs Arctic strategy must reflect both the urgency of the climate crisis and the responsibility of EU states to lead the global phase-out of fossil fuel production given their large role in exacerbating the current climate crises.

Arctic Energy Partners s input to the update of the EU Arctic Policy March 2026 Arctic Energy Partners is the supplier network for the energy industry in the Arctic region of Norway. The network collaborates with businesses, renewable energy, oil and gas companies, and social actors. Arctic Energy Partners has 250 member companies in Nordland, Troms and Finnmark and is a non-profit interest organization.

Bellona hereby replies to the open consultation and call for evidence on the EU Arctic Policy, the full feedback and supporting information is attached in the PDF, specifically addressing recommendations on how an EU strategy and policy on the Arctic should: - Seize the moment to strengthen EU leadership in the Arctic - Ensure that climate mitigation, adaptation and environmental protection remain a core of EU…

1. The European Arctic at a global geopolitical crossroads of importance to the EU – The European Arctic is not only the EU’s northern border area, but also serves as a gateway to broader global Arctic interests. Sustainable, resilient and innovative societies and businesses that can quickly adapt to changing circumstances are essential for a safe and vibrant European Arctic.

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EU Arctic Policy consultation response Submitted by Lucy Brooks on behalf of Framtiden i våre Hender, Norway. Framtiden i våre Hender is Norways largest environmental and solidarity organisation with around 50,000 members.

The Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO), Danish Industry (DI), the Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK), the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise (SN), the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprise (SA), and the Federation of Icelandic Industries (SI) welcome the opportunity to contribute to the public consultation on the revision of the EU Arctic Policy.

Germany, as an EU member state and an observer to the Arctic Council, commends the plan to update the EU Arctic policy. Germany is committed to stability in the Arctic as the foundation for security and sustainable development of the region. Germany has updated its own Arctic Policy Guidelines in September 2024 to take into account the changing security environment for its engagement in the Arctic.

North Calotte Council Statement on EU revising its Arctic policy The North Calotte Region, encompassing the northernmost EU regions of Sweden (Norrbotten), Finland (Lapland), and Norway (Finnmark, Troms, Nordland), is in the core of geopolitical tensions. This sparsely populated area faces challenging climatic conditions and long distances to European market.

While the poles are one of the less anthropized areas on Earth, they are one of the most jeopardized habitats by climate change. The rise of temperatures, the water acidification, the thawing of permafrost or again the rise of sea level are some of the multiple risks endured by these ecosystems.

The Technical University of Denmark welcomes the European Commissions initiative to update the EU Arctic Policy. As a leading technical university with strong Arctic research, education and innovation activities, DTU contributes substantial technological and scientific expertise.

The Arctic is warming three to four times faster than the global average, making it one of the most environmentally vulnerable and geopolitically sensitive regions in the world. Rapid climate change is transforming ecosystems, accelerating ice melt and increasing global attention to the regions natural resources and strategic importance.

The Norwegian Barents Secretariat, an inter-municipal company owned by the three county councils of Northern Norway, argues that the updated EU Arctic Policy should place resilience at its core. As an NSPA region, the European Arctic faces demographic decline, long distances and labour shortages, but also strong potential for innovation, green transition and strategic value creation.

As seen in attached policy paper, Seas At Risk highlights nine critical policy areas that the EU will need to consider as part of the review of its EU Arctic Policy. The EU should support the development of a dedicated international governance framework for the Central Arctic Ocean.

The Arctic is a region of high strategic relevance for the European Union due to its essential role in global climate regulation, biodiversity conservation and the long-term resilience of Arctic societies. Accelerated warming, widespread permafrost degradation and increasing cumulative environmental pressures underline the need for a precautionary, ecosystem-based and rights-compliant governance approach.

This feedback is given on behalf of KonKraft. KonKraft is a collaboration arena for Offshore Norge, the Federation of Norwegian Industries, the Norwegian Shipowners' Association, the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO), and the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions (LO), together with the LO members the United Federation of Trade Unions and the trade union Styrke.

Contribution from Region Norrbotten (Sweden) EU Arctic Policy Region Norrbotten welcomes the European Commissions initiative to update the EU Arctic Policy. Located in the European Arctic with borders to Finland and Norway, the region is characterised by long distances, demanding climate conditions and a strong tradition of crossborder cooperation that strengthens trust, stability and functional integration.

Since 2016, the European Unions (EUs) Arctic policy has included a commitment to ensuring that oil, coal, and gas stay in the ground, including in Arctic regions. The International Institute for Sustainable Development recommends that the EU uphold its commitment to an Arctic fossil fuel extraction moratorium in the next iteration of its Arctic policy.

Compared to the previous EU Arctic Strategy, the situation in the Arctic and beyond has changed significantly. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, its military capabilities in the High North, as well as the growing interest in the Arctic and its resources from a number of countries including China, underline the urgency of increasing NATOs deterrence and defence in the Arctic.

The West Finnmark Council represents seven municipalities and 55% of Finnmarks population - communities that carry Norways Arctic presence. We stand where global powers direct their gaze. Our message is simple: The new Arctic strategy must be shaped with us, not over our heads. Our region is no longer distant - we are at the center of greatpower attention.

​​As the European Commission updates its Arctic policy, we urge it to formally consider the perspectives of early career polar scientists. The Polar Early Career World Summit (PECWS) Synthesis Report, developed through structured engagement with 238 early career researchers from across the globe, presents a community-driven set of priorities for the future of polar research (https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16994869…

The Association of Municipalities praises the opportunity to comment on the update of the EU Arctic policy. A review and update of the EU’s Arctic policy is timely, as the EU’s communication on Arctic policy dates back to 2021 and the situation in the world has become even more critical.

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Input to the EUs Revision of Arctic Policy Eastern Finnmark Council 1 March 2026 The Eastern Finnmark Council represents nine municipalities in Norways northeastern Arctic region: Vardø, Vadsø, Sør-Varanger, Nesseby, Tana, Båtsfjord, Berlevåg, Gamvik and Lebesby. The council works to promote sustainable social and economic development in Eastern Finnmark.

Title: Addressing Cumulative Transformations in the European Arctic I am a Franco-German researcher at Umeå University (Sweden) working at the intersection of peace and conflict studies and environmental governance, with research focusing on land-use change, climate adaptation and socio-ecological conflicts in northern Sweden and the wider European Arctic.

The University of Bergen (UiB) appreciates the opportunity to contribute to the updating of EUs Arctic policy. As a comprehensive research university with strong Arctic expertise across natural sciences, social sciences, law, humanities, health sciences and the arts, UiB emphasises the importance of a strong multiand interdisciplinary knowledge base for policymaking in a rapidly changing Arctic.

The Artic is treated as a anthropogenic object that humans have the right to use and exploit. It is not. It is patrimony of humanity, patrimony of the universe. We cannot tolerate the unprecedented exploitation of its resources, treating it as a factory of fish, mineral and oil production, treating it as an strategic commercial route. It is not. It is our heritage. Indigenous people's home.

The European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet) is the EUs in situ marine data service. Implemented by a large network of experts, EMODnets operational service is a trusted source of in situ marine environmental and human activities data and data products from the coast to open ocean and from European regional sea-basins to the Arctic.

Technology Industries of Finland considers it highly important that the EU updates its Arctic policy to reflect the rapidly changing geopolitical, economic and security environment. The 2021 Joint Communication no longer adequately reflects current circumstances, in which the Arctic has gradually shifted from being a zone of cooperation to also becoming a focal point of strategic competition and great-power…

Västerbotten County Administrative Board’s response to the referral to update the EU’s Arctic policy. The full reply to the consultation can be found in the attached annex. The County Administrative Board welcomes the initiative to update the current Arctic Strategy. Since its adoption, environmental, security, economic, social and political developments have changed the challenges facing the EU in the Arctic.

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While recognizing the current objectives as outlined in the Joint Communication (2021), the fundamental importance of the cooperation for a peaceful and sustainable Arctic and the vulnerability of the regions ecosystem, we suggest: 1 Introducing an additional geographic focus on Russian Arctic Regions to the revised policy documents Context and reasoning: Since the full-scale Russian military invasion of Ukraine in…

The Nordic Five Tech (N5T) alliance comprising Aalto University, Chalmers University of Technology, the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) welcomes the European Commissions initiative to update the EU Arctic Policy.

Any policy concerned with the well-being of the Arctic, managing environmental challenges, and security within the region must take heed to the demographic resilience of Arctic communities. Sustainability in the Arctic must encompass social sustainability alongside its other critical dimensions.

TOWARDS A RIGHTS-BASED, INCLUSIVE AND SCIENCE-DRIVEN EU ARCTIC POLICY The Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) Working Group of the Network for Arctic Research Ireland (NARI) welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the update of the EU Arctic policy.

The Arctic Youth Network (AYN) amplifies youth voices on Arctic issues through learning, collaboration and action. It provides a platform for young change-makers to connect and build on their leadership capacities.

The Arctic is a strategic nexus where climate change, technological development, resource interests and security dynamics converge. Arctic is warming nearly four times faster than the global average, with profound consequences for ocean circulation, sea-ice dynamics, ecosystems, and weather extremes across Europe.

Feedback by Jackson Dorris (Primary Author), Rabi Ul Awal, Videep Agarwal, Yiren Jing, Aleesha Bhatti, Aadyant Singh Harnwal (Advisor). All from Logos Research Centre Context and Core Challenges The Arctic is not a backwater anymore. Ice is melting fast, and what used to be frozen and forgotten is now open ground for resource grabs, new shipping lanes, and scientific races.

The Sami Climate Council welcomes the fact that the EU’s Arctic policy recognises climate change as a key threat to the Arctic and the particular vulnerability of indigenous peoples to its impacts. However, in the context of policy update, it is important to strengthen the position of the Sami people as indigenous people and rights-holders, not only as a stakeholder or target of policy action.

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The circumpolar Arctic is a varied and diverse region. There are vast differences in climate, culture, people and local communities. The European Arctic is a region of business, culture, tourism, academia, research and development, technology, and industry.

The Arctic region is undergoing profound change. Climate change, heightened geopolitical tensions, increased military presence and hybrid threats, as well as growing interest in natural resources, energy and new transport routes are reshaping the region and its role within Europe and globally.

EU Arctic Policy Call for Evidence (2026) North Norway European Office (NNEO) On behalf of Nordland, Troms and Finnmark counties and our partners, we welcome the opportunity to provide feedback on the revision of the EU Arctic Policy. Political context: Since 2021 the Arctic has changed significantly. Russias war against Ukraine has disrupted cooperation and logistics.

The Arctic possesses a unique ecosystem that is particularly vulnerable to human interventions and pollution, because it recovers very slowly. Certain Arctic areas are already threatened by (plans for) terrestrial mining as well as on-shore and off-shore oil and gas extraction.

Razom We Stand, a Ukrainian civil society organisation working on sanctions, their effective enforcement as well as alignment of energy, climate and security policies, calls on the European Union to ensure that the update of the EU Arctic Policy fully addresses the growing climate and security risks posed by Russias fossil fuel expansion in the Arctic.

The Lappi Chamber of Commerce would like to thank you for the opportunity to submit a position on the update of the European Union’s Arctic policy. We represent Lapland’s business community and contribute to the good development of the northern environment.

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The 2021 Joint Communication on the EUs Arctic Policy calls for pushing for oil, coal and gas to stay in the ground, including in Arctic regions. We strongly endorse this and call for the updated policy to reiterate this commitment. Climate mitigation and adaptation should be essential features of EU activity in the Arctic.

The Arctic is one of the least observed yet fastest changing components of the global ocean system. Transformations in this region have far-reaching implications for climate regulation, ocean circulation, biodiversity, and global environmental stability. Rapid warming, shrinking sea ice, and shifting ocean dynamics are already altering marine ecosystems and influencing global climate feedback mechanisms.

The Sea Alarm Foundation welcomes the plans for a revised EU Arctic Strategy and the possibility to share its views. The Arctic is an extremely vulnerable area for oil pollution. Because of climate change and the resulting retreating ice, new economic shipping and Exploration & Production activities are likely to develop and both governments (e.g.

INTERACT Non-Profit Association welcomes the EUs commitment to an Arctic that remains a region of peace, stability, constructive international cooperation, and sustainable development. We strongly support the Strategys aim to enhance resilience, adaptation, safety, and well-being for Arctic communities, while also recognising the global impacts of Arctic change through teleconnections affecting societies far beyond…

EU Call for public consultation to update EU Arctic Policy Contribution of the Egmont Institute - Royal Institute for External Relations (Belgium). Preliminary Remark: The EU Arctic Policy from October 2021 is comprehensive and effective, positioning the EU as a key Arctic player.

Please find attached the contribution of the Polar Connect Initiative. The Polar Connect Initiative aims at establishing a submarine cable along a new Arctic route, directly connecting Europe to East Asia, with potential landfalls in Japan, South Korea, Canada, and the USA.

Investing in Arctic marine science is crucial for supporting a sustainable blue economy, strengthening international scientific cooperation, and improving understanding of the climate system the basis of EU Arctic Strategy.

The Arctic is experiencing rapid environmental change, with warming occurring significantly faster than the global average. These changes affect sea-ice extent and thickness, ocean circulation, ecosystems, and human activities such as shipping and fisheries.

Statement by the Central Union of Agricultural Producers and Forest Owners (MTK), Finland MTK considers the update of the EU arctic Policy necessary. The geopolitical changes following Russias invasion of Ukraine have significantly affected the operating environment in arctic regions, increasing the importance of security policy. The EU must therefore update its arctic-related policies. 1.

The Arctic is vulnerable to climate change and a stage for geopolitical rivalry. It is home to around 4 million people, including the Indigenous Saami, and supports livelihoods based on its unique nature and natural resources. Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is among the leading research institutes in the EU with strong interdisciplinary expertise in natural resource use and governance in the Arctic.

The EU Arctic strategy should ban drilling for gas and oil in the Artic region. For two reasons. First, because evidence from the IEA and others demonstrate that the opening up of new fossil fuel exploration is in violation of the Paris Agreement.

We appreciate the European Commissions recognition of the Arctic as a region vulnerable to climate change. We recommend strengthening focus climate change mitigation and adaptation and environmental protection as a core priority to ensure the policy's responsiveness to climate and environmental risks.

EUMANS Contribution to the European Commission Public Consultation on the EU Arctic Strategy EUMANS welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the European Commissions public consultation on the future EU Arctic Strategy. The Arctic region is experiencing profound environmental transformations due to climate change, with warming occurring at a rate significantly higher than the global average.

ActionAid Denmark appreciates the opportunity to comment on the EUs Arctic strategy. We have the following recommendations: 1:The EU must uphold its commitment to an Arctic hydrocarbon moratorium and establish a clear timeline to phase out resources north of the Arctic Circle in Norway, specifically in the northern Norwegian and Barents Seas.

-This is a summary - please refer to the uploaded full recommendation document.- As a part of Arctic policy design and implementation, national and EU policymakers should support structured and long-term cooperation between Arctic municipalities and regions regarding people and skills, civic preparedness and security, climate mitigation/adaptation and social, economic and environmental resilience.

The CPMR Baltic Sea Commission represents a network of 20 regional authorities accross the Baltic Sea Region. The Arctic Working Group submit a detailed position paper to provide a regional perspective in shaping the future EU Arctic policy.

The Oulu Regional Council welcomes the revision of the EU Arctic policy to reflect the current geopolitical context. Located in Northern Finland, from the coast of the Bothnian Bay in the west to the EU external border with Russia in the east, the region faces challenges related to climate change, insufficient transport connections, long distances and ageing population, all characteristic for the Northern Sparsely…

The European Polar Board, an independent organization for European polar research cooperation with a diverse membership of 31 members from 22 European countries provides input to the revision of the EU Arctic Policy. This submission is complemented by an attached document providing further evidence on the strategic benefits of a climate-centred, science-based Arctic Policy.

The Research Council of Norways input to the EU revised Arctic policy Thank you for the invitation to give input to the update of the EU Arctic policy. A knowledge based approach is essential to achieving sustainable development in the Arctic.

North Sweden, East and North Finland, and North Norway in the Northern Sparsely Populated Areas (NSPA) values the EU Arctic Policy's aim to support a peaceful, sustainable and prosperous Arctic, with focus on local development. The policy will gain from a more integrated and cohesive approach between the three pillars.

The EU Arctic strategy should ban drilling for gas and oil in the Artic region. For two reasons. First, because evidence from the IEA and others demonstrate that the opening up of new fossil fuel exploration is in violation of the Paris Agreement.

We are at the break of sixth mass extiction. In order to keep global warming bellow 2 °C we cannot built any new fossil fuel plants. To have hope, to have livable future the EU's updated Arctic Strategy needs to ban any new oil and gas developments north of the Arctic Circle. The Barents Sea is home to not only polar bears, whales, but vast fish stocks, countless seabirds and even cold-water corals.

Umeå municipality input to the public consultation on the 2026 update of the EU Arctic Policy (Adopted by the municipal executive committee on 2026-03-10) The municipality of Umeå, Sweden, would like to thank the European Commission for the opportunity to participate in this public consultation on the 2026 update of the EU Arctic Policy.

Norrbotten Municipality summarises its contribution to the ongoing consultation with the following key messages: Strengthen the influence of municipalities and the coherence of EU Arctic policy. Municipalities should be formally represented in forums where decisions are taken that directly affect local communities in the Arctic.

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The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) is Europes leading research-performing organisation, recognised for its excellence in fundamental and applied science and for its long-standing contribution to advancing knowledge and innovation for the benefit of society.

Consultation on EU Arctic Strategy Update Response from the City of Oulu Finland The City of Oulu in the North of Finland wishes to express its appreciation for the opportunity to submit comments regarding the update of the European Unions Communication on Arctic Policy.

Arctic Cluster Team (ACT) is a leading Norwegian innovation cluster and a Norwegian Centre of Expertise for industrial transition. Our 115 partners are developing sustainable and resilient solutions for the Arctic, Europe and the world.

1 - Human rights rationale for an Arctic fossil fuel moratorium and phaseout The climate crisis is an unprecedented human rights crisis. In the especially vulnerable and biodiverse Arctic, the IPCCs Assessment Report confirms that crossing tipping points would create chain reactions for the whole climate system, compromising a livable planet.

Corner House Research is a UK environmental and human rights group. Corner House strongly opposes the opening up of the Arctic for oil and gas extraction. Scientific research has concluded that little or no new CO2-emitting infrastructure can be commissioned worldwide if temperature rises are to be kept within 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The Department of Ecoscience (ECOS) at Aarhus University conducts interdisciplinary research on Arctic, marine and terrestrial ecosystems and provides scientific advice to Danish and European authorities. We welcome the initiative to update the EU Arctic Policy and support the continued relevance of the three pillars of the 2021 Joint Communication.

We appreciate the opportunity to provide input on the update of the EU's Arctic Strategy, of which we have the following recommendations. The EU must uphold its commitment to an Arctic hydrocarbon moratorium and establish a clear timeline to phase out extraction north of the Arctic Circle in Norway, specifically in the northern Norwegian and Barents Seas.

The European Arctic has become a strategic cornerstone for Europes security, energy resilience, industrial capacity, and long term geopolitical stability. Norwegian trade union Styrke calls on the European Commission to ensure that the revised EU Arctic Policy is grounded in operational realities: Europe cannot secure stable energy supplies, societal resilience, or a meaningful presence in the North without Arctic…

Luleå Municipality’s response to an update of the EU’s Arctic policy. KLF 2026/277 Ref. Ares (2026) 310785 – 13/01/2026 the full reply to the consultation can be found in the attached annex. Luleå Municipality welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the EU updating of its Arctic policy.

Filed in Swedish · English published by the European Commission

European transport policies are one of the strategic nodes for the future of island regions. For regions such as Sicily, the issue of mobility is not only an infrastructural issue, but directly concerns economic competitiveness, territorial cohesion and development opportunities for businesses and citizens.

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Please listen to the alarmsclocks, that should be constantly going of in the back of your minds. Do not expand on oil and gas licences, seize to end ressource extraction and pollution north of the Arctic circle. Life is far more valuable than profit, at all times put life above anything else. The revised EU Arctic Strategy must include a clear moratorium on new oil and gas development above the Arctic Circle.

We welcome the chance to share our perspective on the EUs Arctic strategy and offer the following key recommendations: 1. The EU must reaffirm its pledge to halt Arctic hydrocarbon extraction and set a definitive schedule for ending resource exploitation north of the Arctic Circle, particularly in the northern Norwegian and Barents Seas.

LArtico is currently at the centre of increasing competition between global and regional powers, which is set to become a focal point for international balances. This evidence not only touches upon military aspects of the deterioration of the security framework in the Arctic region, but also makes it necessary to rethink an enlarged security concept.

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A successful EU Arctic policy must recognise that economic activity, people, infrastructure, and security are interconnected. Strong economies and stable populations are key to Arctic resilience and security. EU policies should therefore strengthen communities, infrastructure, and sustainable economic activity.

The Arctic faces a number of challenges: climate change, which disproportionately affects its inhabitants – increased military presence and hybrid activity due to geopolitical and geo-economic shifts – threats to economic security, social balance, cohesion and internal security, driven by growing interest in sustainable materials, energy and new trade routes.

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EU Arctic Consultations 2026 Position of the Finnmark County Board in KS, Norway KS represents all local and regional authorities in Norway and is the countrys largest public employer organization. The Troms County Board welcomes the updated EU Arctic Policy and recognizes the EU as an important actor in Arctic affairs.

The updated EU Arctic Strategy needs to firmly call for a halt on new oil and gas development above the Arctic Circle. The Barents Sea supports some of the planet's largest fish stocks, millions of seabirds, whales, polar bears, and unique cold-water coral ecosystems. Near Lofoten, renowned as one of Europes notable Arctic areas, the last significant cod populations migrate to spawn.

Aalto University recommends that the updated EU Arctic Policy be more ambitious, strategic, and firmly grounded in research. The EU is well positioned to lead in sustainable Arctic governance through its strong research base, environmental ambition, and commitment to multilateral cooperation. Aalto Universitys key recommendations are: 1.

These comments are submitted by the REMHub project, Rare Earth and Magnets Hub for a Resilient Europe. REMHub is a Horizon Europe-funded initiative launched in October 2024, coordinated by CLIC Innovation Oy (Finland).

Position of the Troms County Board in KS, Norway. KS represents all local and regional authorities in Norway and is the countrys largest public employer organization. The Troms County Board welcomes the updated EU Arctic Policy and recognizes the EU as an important actor in Arctic affairs.

With increasing activities in the Arctic, the threats to marine life an indigenous communities increase as well. In my professional life (first as Mariner working ao in the Arctic, and later as environmental researcher) I have seen things change immensely in the Arctic.

It is by no means the direction to take. Like many other Europeans, I am firmly opposed to the policy of expanding drilling and oil and gas extraction in the Arctic. It has never been the direction to which Europeans have ever signalled a desire to go, but the direction indicated by the large industrial and financial groups, whose dictates I clearly follow. No to this plan. Save the artic.

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I am extremely grateful to the Commission for this timely and needed initiative. I am a researcher at the National Research Council of Italy, my research field is about CO2 emissions from the Arctic tundra. I have read the "Joint Communication" JOIN(2021) 27 about the Arctic.

Given recent geopolitical developments, UiT The Arctic University of Norway considers that research and education relating to security and economy in the European Arctic needs to be reflected in the updated Arctic policy. The three priorities from the 2021 policy remain highly relevant, but must be considered in light of the changed geopolitical situation.

The Arctic Centre of the University of Lapland (Rovaniemi, Finland) is the EUs only multidisciplinary Arctic research centre located in the Arctic, and University of Lapland is the EUs northernmost university. Having this as starting point, the Arctic Centre wants to pay attention to EUs role in Arctic research. There is a great need for sustained and dedicated EU funding for Arctic research.

Oil Change International appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on the EUs Arctic strategy, of which we have the following recommendations: The EU must uphold its commitment to an Arctic hydrocarbon moratorium and establish a clear timeline to phase out oil and gas from the Barents Sea, which is north of the Arctic Circle in Norway.

As a representative of Russias scientific community and a participant in international polar research, I would like to emphasize the fundamental role that science plays in the Arctic. Russia, being the largest Arctic nation, not only bears responsibility for the sustainable development and environmental protection of the region, but also possesses unique observational data and long-term expertise that are…

EU Arctic Policy Update 2026 North Karelia (Finland). North Karelia welcomes the update of the EU Arctic Policy. While not in the High Arctic, the region is part of the wider European Arctic and NSPA area. As an EU external border region bordering Russia, it directly faces geopolitical shifts, energy transition pressures, connectivity gaps and demographic constraints typical of northern regions.

We appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on the EUs Arctic strategy, of which we have the following recommendations: 1:The EU must uphold its commitment to an Arctic hydrocarbon moratorium and establish a clear timeline to phase out resources north of the Arctic Circle in Norway, specifically in the northern Norwegian and Barents Seas.

I consider that developments in the Arctic from an environmental point of view, as on this topic I can express my opinion as an aquatic zoologist and marine scientist are very critical. The European Union must insist on mitigating the effects of climate change on Arctic ecosystems, as they feed to a large extent the rest of the world and also indigenous populations.

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President Trumps stated desire to annex Greenland is undoubtedly significant for the future of NATO and transatlantic relations. Even if the plan never materializes, an American threat to conquer land from a long-term and loyal ally must undermine trust and mark a turning point in the post-World War Two international order.

A lot has happened in the Arctic in the last years and this update of the EU Arctic Policy is very welcome. Climate change has immediate effects on biodiversity, including by enabling increased human access to the Arctic. This includes the expansion of existing shipping routes, the development of cruise tourism and, increasingly access to mineral resources and their transport by sea.

EUMETSAT (the European organisation for the exploitation of meteorological satellites - www.eumetsat.int) welcomes the review of the EU Arctic Policy and strongly supports an approach that gathers climate action, sustainable development and international cooperation, with a clear emphasis on sustained, operational Arctic observations and monitoring.

The European Marine Board (EMB) is pleased to see the European Commissions (EC) continued focus on protecting the Arctic environment, and its appreciation of the importance of science and research. In the update, EMB urges the EC to seek policy coherence and alignment with other relevant ongoing (Ocean Pact, Water Resilience Strategy) and established policies. The Arctic is not isolated from the rest of the world.

The EU's updated Arctic policy should emphasise dialogue and development based on strong engagement with local authorities, Indigenous Peoples and communities in the Arctic. For projects and activities in the region to be viable and sustainable, they must have local support and contribute tangibly to the welfare, resilience and long-term development of Arctic societies.

The International Amateur Radio Union Region 1 (IARU R1), an NGO representing the amateur radio service across EMEA, welcomes the review of the EU Arctic Policy. We fully support the vision for a secure, resilient, and sustainable Arctic.

The Arctic faces unprecedented challenges: climate change, shifting geopolitics, and growing competition for resources requiring a bold, values-driven EU response. Europe as should act as a global leader in science, innovation, and principled governance. 1. Leadership: Values, Security, and Competitiveness: Europe must champion an Arctic policy rooted in democratic values, transparency, and respect for human rights.

1)The EU does not need to strive for the influence of CO2 or the climate because most of it is not the responsibility of the EU, but is largely (90 %) controlled by the sun and the planet. .2) the possible last 10 % of human responsibility cannot be solved with local action by the EU as long as the biggest emitters China and the US do not participate

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Introduction The Norwegian Coastal Shipowners Association (Kystrederiene) welcomes the European Commissions initiative to update the EU Arctic Policy. Kystrederiene represents approximately 240 Norwegian shipping companies operating around 1,000 vessels along the Norwegian coast.

The rapid evolution of climatic, geopolitical, and geoeconomic conditions in the Arctic since the 2021 Joint Communication renders an update of the EU Arctic Policy both timely and necessary. Accelerating environmental change, permafrost thawing, biodiversity loss, and new pressures on Arctic communities require a more integrated and forward-looking approach that aligns with the EU's broader priorities under the…