Unlike its Arctic neighbors, the United States is failing to take full advantage of the tremendous economic potential of the Arctic region. Captain Melissa Bert argues for U.S. ratification of the Law of the Sea Convention; international polar shipping standards; and an aircraft, icebreaker, and shore-based infrastructure acquisition program funded by Arctic oil and gas lease proceeds.

Frank G. Klotz argues that the United States has important national interests in Antarctica, and these interests must be fully understood and carefully considered, especially as the federal government looks for ways to reduce the deficit.

Scott Borgerson and Paula Dobriansky discuss the economic, environmental, and security implications of a changing Arctic region and its significance for the United States.

Scott Borgerson and Paula Dobriansky discuss the economic, environmental, and security implications of a changing Arctic region and its significance for the United States.

A broad-sweeping look at international efforts to combat climate change. This is part of the Global Governance Monitor, an interactive feature tracking multilateral approaches to several global challenges.

Captain Melissa Bert, USCG, argues that the United States will lose out economically and environmentally if it does not take advantage of resources in the Alaskan Arctic.

John B. Bellinger III says President Obama should seize the opportunity presented by Republican support for increased domestic oil and gas production to urge the Senate to approve the Law of the Sea Convention.

Experts on ocean governance gather in the Council's International Institutions and Global Governance Program meeting on U.S. ocean governance in an international context. They discuss the emerging issues of the high seas and how U.S. policies will interact with foreign initiatives and treay arrangements.

Senator Mark Begich (D-Ak) and Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Ak) speak to the Council on public and private strategies for adapting to climate change in Arctic Alaska. Scott G. Borgerson, visiting fellow for Ocean Governance at the Council, presides.

John Vinocur of The New York Times examines news developments in the Arctic and explores Russia's goal of building a "comprehensive presence" in the area.

Scott G. Borgerson discusses the melting Arctic, before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Paula J. Dobriansky argues that the continuing success of the Antarctic Treaty at its 50th anniversary offers policymakers a powerful diplomatic template on which to combat pressing security, economic, and environmental challenges in the region.

Scott Borgerson and Caitlyn Antrim argue that the United States should show leadership on the formation of an Arctic "polar park" for international scientific research.

Presidential Directive

Scott Borgerson visually explores the changing Arctic using an interactive map.

President Bush is right to demand an immediate end to the looting and shooting in Georgia by Russia, but he should also turn his attention to recent aggressive Russian activity in the opening Arctic, writes Scott Borgerson

Writing from within the Arctic Circle, Michael Gerson, describes the harsh realities of an ecosystem being tangibly changed by the climate disruption that stems from global warming.

The Arctic Council assesses the impact climate change is having on the Arctic environment, human health, and social, cultural and economic systems. The Assessment encourages Member States to take effective measures through enhancing the access of Arctic residents to information and decision makers.

Wake up, Henry Hudson: Thanks to global warming, the Northwest Passage will soon be open for business.