First published in 1989,Sovereignty and Security in the Arcticexplores the emergence of the polar region as a central concern in international politics and examines the complex issues of sovereignty and security that result. It deals with the issues from three broad perspectives: It analyzes the strategic thinking of the superpowers and their allies, and the various stances they have adopted towards the region; it discusses the prospects for regional arms control, considering developments in superpower relations in the Gorbachev era and confidence-building measures; it looks at the legal, regional, and bilateral issues raised by superpower rivalry in the region. In particular, the perspectives of Canada and the Nordic states are examined, showing how they attempt to limit the dominance of the superpowers and so enhance their own sovereignty.

By using this comprehensive circumpolar approach, this book fills a gap in the literature. It also illustrates the full complexity of designing a realistic Arctic security policy for the 1990s.