Is the Arctic destined for conflict, or can cooperation prevail? This timely book explores the complex interplay of security, geography, and regions in the Arctic. Moving beyond simplistic narratives of geopolitical rivalry, it offers a nuanced, multilevel analysis of state security practices, foreign policies, and regional cooperation across distinct subregions. Challenging conventional notions of 'regions' and re-evaluating the role of geographic proximity, it provides fresh insights into how states engage with their neighbours. It also explores the enduring relevance of geography in international relations, demonstrating how the concept of an 'Arctic region' can be a powerful framework but also rests on some false assumptions. Essential for scholars, students, and policymakers, Arctic Geopolitics reshapes our understanding of security dynamics in the Arctic and beyond.  This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.

‘Andreas Østhagen adroitly navigates the academic field of Arctic geopolitics by refuting the simplification of both the region and its communities. The focus on sub-regional complexes demonstrates how, and, critically, where the Arctic is shaped by the intersection of local, national, circumpolar and global actors, forces and interests.’

Klaus Dodds - Senior Research Fellow, Rand Europe and co-author of Unfrozen: The Fight for the Future of the Arctic

‘Østhagen's subregional perspective in Arctic Geopolitics is a thoughtful guide to conflict management through detailed, evidence-based analysis. He reveals how geography drives cooperation and tension, from Trump's Greenland gambit to the Arctic Coast Guard Forum. Grounded in empirical depth and theoretical insight, this book presents a valuable roadmap for Arctic stability and security.’

James Kraska - Charles H. Stockton Chair of International Maritime Law, US Naval War College

‘Moving beyond simplistic understandings of geopolitics, Østhagen’s Arctic Geopolitics combines analytical rigour, empirical depth, and compelling, accessible language. The book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand how and why the Arctic has become one of the most pivotal geopolitical questions of our age.’

Nathalie Tocci - Professor of the Practice, SAIS Europe

'Dramatically escalating political confrontations in the Arctic, including an American president threatening to take Greenland by force, often rest on justifications made in sweeping terms about ‘the Arctic’ and its military security threats. Andreas Østhagen highlights the distinctive sub-regions in the Arctic and compellingly challenges many false generalizations. Geography matters, also in annoying detail. Simultaneously, he more hopefully suggests that shared experiences of living arctically can inspire joint action to shape Arctic futures. Scholars of security and regionalism – also beyond the Arctic – will find much inspiration here. Ideally, policymakers too will learn some nuances.'

Ole Wæver - Professor of International Relations, Department of Political Science, University of Copenhagen