Cold Comfort: Arctic Conflict, Environmental Protection and the Limits of Law

Armed conflict in the Arctic is not inconceivable. Significant military battles have previously been fought in this region, belying its pristine and peaceful popular image. World War Two alone saw thousands of combat deaths above the Arctic Circle, on land, in the air, and on and under the sea. It is important to note that, at present, these developments do not portend imminent, or even likely, armed conflict. Although various sources of interstate tensions exist in the Arctic, from competing resource claims to contested territory, there are strong indications both that these can be managed or resolved peacefully and that regional states remain committed to doing so. Here, Penny highlights the substantial dangers inherent in any potential Arctic conflict, even one fought in full compliance with existing law. As regional militarization continues, it is essential to recognize that international law does not prohibit armed conflict in this region, nor will it prevent substantial resulting environmental harm once conflict has begun.