Hot tensions in a cold region: territory and peace in the European Arctic

Abstract

This thesis focuses on relations between territorial issues and peace in the European Arctic. The objective of this research is to examine region‘s political decision makers‘ views and reflections on state of peace in the European Arctic and how it is influenced by territorial disputes. It utilizes a conceptual framework based on theory of zones of peace. The results of qualitative research indicate that territorial factor is no longer a serious threat for peace in contemporary European Arctic. Moreover, it finds that states in the region prioritize international cooperation to their geopolitical ambitions, as its‘ benefits surpass possible consequences of confrontation for territories. The study results emphasize the role international institutions in the study area both for international and cross border cooperation and peace. The findings also suggest that European Arctic can be described as zone of stable peace with certain expectations for evolving into pluralistic security community of states. Key words: European Arctic, zones of peace, territory, state of peace, international cooperation, territorial claims, negative peace, stable peace, pluralistic security community of states, international organizations.