Geopolitics of the Arctic

The Arctic Circle is emerging as one of the frontlines for competition among world powers. As the effects of climate change collide with resource acquisition and business development, conflict and cooperation in the Arctic continue to evolve. With the U.S., Russia and China seeking to expand their Arctic footprints to obtain a military advantage and exploit natural resources, the region’s strategic relevance will increase as part of this quest for global dominance. The emergence of an Arctic security dilemma would have significant implications for the world and the future of trade.

The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Sean O’Callaghan, program director for the Ph.D. in Humanities and Dr. Symeon Giannakos, program director for the Ph.D. in International Relations, and will include Q&A with the virtual audience.

Panelists are Commander Pontus Krohn (left), naval officer from the Royal Swedish Navy, currently on leave of absence to conduct doctoral studies in International Relations at Salve Regina University, who will present the regional view. Dr. Walter Berbrick (center) is an associate professor and founding director of the Arctic Studies Group at the U.S. Naval War College and will summarize the view of the U.S. Navy. Ryan M. Ciocco (right), is a Salve Regina alumnus in Political Science and now a global security specialist in the private sector, with experience in geopolitical and country risk, open-source and protective intelligence, who will address the nexus between Russian and Chinese interests in the area.