The End of Arctic Exceptionalism: A Review of the Monograph "Unfrozen: The Fight for the Future of the Arctic"

The monograph “Unfrozen: The Fight for the Future of the Arctic” attempts to analyze the current transformations in the Arctic region against the backdrop of climate change and escalating global geopolitics. However, from the Russian perspective, the work is significantly limited by its Western perspective, in which Russia is presented more as a source of tension and an object of sanctions pressure than as an equal participant in Arctic cooperation and sustainable development. The book does not pay sufficient attention to Russian national interests, strategic priorities, and comprehensive approach to Arctic development. The authors’ disregard for Russia’s role in ensuring environmental security, developing the Northern Sea Route and supporting the indigenous peoples of the region is critically important. Instead, the focus is on confrontation and the collapse of the Arctic Council’s institutional model, overlooking Russia’s efforts to maintain and advance cooperation mechanisms at the bilateral and multilateral levels. The monograph inadequately addresses Russian concepts of sustainable Arctic development as well as the consequences of unilateral sanctions and political pressure, undermining overall regional stability and security. Thus, while “Unfrozen” is valuable for understanding the Western perceptions of Arctic changes, it clearly lacks a comprehensive and balanced view that reflects the specifics and interests of Russia as a key Arctic state.