The Arctic: A New Theater of Great Power Competition
Journal: ACADEMIA International Journal for Social Sciences
Year: 2025

The Arctic warms at four times the global average, reducing summer sea ice extent by 40% since 1979, unlocking previously inaccessible resources, and shipping corridors. By 2025, the Northern Sea Route (NSR) offers seasonal commercial viability, cutting Asia-Europe transit times by 40% compared to Suez routes. This shift has sparked intense competition among great powers, including Russia, China, America and NATO member states, as they seek to assert their influence, secure resources, and gain s