Outline

The Geopolitical Debate between Canada and the United States over the Northwest Passage in the Arctic, Caused by Climate Changes

I will examine international laws, studies and scholarly articles and analyze the debate, brought by new climate changes, about Canada's sovereignty over the Northwest Passage, which is being questioned by the United States.


I. The scientifically proved meltdown of the Northwest Passage
A. The causes of the melting
B. When will the Passage be open for shipping?
C. How much shorter will it be than the Panama Canal?
D. What is at stake?
1. Commercial possibilities
2. The actual jurisdiction
II. The debate between Canada and the United States over the Northwest Passage
A. Canada claims sovereignty over the Northwest Passage
1. Increasing interest of the government for this region
2. Internal waters
3. Environmental and traditional security
B. The United States call the Northwest Passage an international strait
1. What does an international strait mean?
2. American interests regarding the Northwest Passage
3. Why do the United States not accept Canada’s claim?
4. The diplomatic incidents caused by the United States
III. Strategic possibilities of a consensus
A. What do journalists think about the issue?
B. What do Canadian political parties think about it?
1. Liberal
2. Conservative