An editorial argues that Canada has historically neglected its Arctic sovereignty, relying on others and making broken promises to Indigenous peoples. With increasing belligerence from Washington and escalation from China and Russia, securing the Arctic has become a serious issue. The article highlights challenges like infrastructure delays (e.g., Nanisivik port) and underequipped Canadian Rangers, while proposing solutions such as sustained CAF presence, a centralized decision-making agency in the North, and dual-use military/civilian investments (e.g., subsea fibre-optic cables, roads, power stations).
Globe editorial: The bill comes due for Arctic sovereignty
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️An editorial argues that Canada has historically neglected its Arctic sovereignty, relying on others and making broken promises to Indigenous peoples. With increasing belligerence from Washington and escalation from China and Russia, securing the Arctic has become a serious issue. The article highlights challenges like infrastructure delays (e.g., Nanisivik port) and underequipped Canadian Rangers, while proposing solutions such as sustained CAF presence, a centralized decision-making agency in the North, and dual-use military/civilian investments (e.g., subsea fibre-optic cables, roads, power stations).
Trending- 1 Before Canada existed: Hudson's Bay Company governed much of the North.
- 2 1950s: Ottawa leaned on US for infrastructure and military systems (Norad).
- 3 2007: Nanisivik port announced.
- 4 2010: Ottawa apologizes for Inuit relocation.
- 5 2019: Ranger rifle replacements developed.
- 6 December (recent): Federal Arctic policy released.
- 7 Recently: Mark Carney promises billions for radar system and military expansions.
- 8 Recently: Plan announced to deploy forces for up to 10 months a year.
- Increased geopolitical competition in the Arctic
- Potential for Canada to be outpaced by other countries
- Need for significant investment and policy changes
- Improved living conditions and security for Northern communities if recommendations are followed
What: Canada faces challenges in asserting its Arctic sovereignty due to historical neglect and current geopolitical shifts. The article proposes solutions including increased military presence, better support for Canadian Rangers, a centralized Northern decision-making agency, and dual-use infrastructure investments.
When: Even before Canada existed (Hudson's Bay Company), 1950s (Ottawa leaned on US), 2010 (Ottawa apologized to Inuit), 2007 (Nanisivik port announced), 2019 (Ranger rifle replacements), December (federal Arctic policy released).
Where: Canadian Arctic, North (Canada), Nanisivik, Northwest Passage, Fort Smith (NWT).
Why: Historical stinginess and neglect, increasing belligerence from Washington, escalation by China and Russia, and the need to secure Canada's position in an increasingly contested region.
How: By pouring billions into radar systems and military expansions (promised by Mark Carney), increasing CAF member rotations, creating a ministry for Northern and Arctic Affairs, and funneling investment into dual-use projects.