Bipartisan Murkowski bill elevates Arctic affairs in U.S. foreign policy

U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) on Oct. 7 sponsored bipartisan legislation that would establish an Assistant Secretary of State for Arctic Affairs to lead and conduct U.S. foreign policy in the Arctic region on Arctic issues.

“As it stands, the United States is the only Arctic nation that does not have diplomatic representation in the Arctic at the ambassador level or higher,” Sen. Murkowski said last week. “In fact, even non-Arctic countries, including China, have this designation. As an Arctic nation, this is unacceptable.”  

Sen. Murkowski introduced the Arctic Diplomacy Act of 2021, S. 2967, with five original cosponsors, including U.S. Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Angus King (I-ME). Sen. Murkowski and Sen. King co-chair the Senate Arctic Caucus.

If enacted, S. 2967 would establish the Senate-confirmed position to be responsible for influencing decisions and behavior of Arctic nations, according to a bill summary provided by Sen. Murkowski’s staff.

Additionally, the position created under S. 2967 would influence Arctic issues and activities in the Arctic region, including establishing an Arctic diplomacy strategy; strengthening cooperation among Arctic countries; promoting responsible natural resource management and economic development; scientific monitoring and research; protecting the Arctic environment and conserving its biological resources; and Arctic indigenous knowledge and input, the summary says. 

“Having represented the United States at hundreds of Arctic events around the world, I know first-hand the value this position will bring to our country,” said Sen. Murkowski. “It is important that the U.S. play an active and influential diplomatic role in the region.”

The lawmaker also pointed out that as the Arctic continues to see change and activity in the region increases, the Arctic is an “emerging geopolitical grey zone” that requires diligent diplomacy. 

“It is pivotal that the U.S. establish this position in order to conduct the type of diplomacy necessary to preserve a peaceful, prosperous Arctic,” Sen. Murkowski said. “America and our Arctic allies desire the region to remain exceptional — but that requires a concerted effort from us all.”