Why Canada's Sovereignty over the Arctic Matters: A Global Perspective

Sovereignty and International Territory

Sovereignty is the bedrock of national security and governance. It is a principle that reflects control over a territory and its resources. Sharing sovereignty can be problematic as it dilutes national control, potentially leading to a loss of governance and control over the territory. Take, for example, a scenario where a nation decides to share its territory like New York or San Francisco with another entity. Would Americans willingly cede control over their highly strategic and economically significant cities to outsiders? The answer is no. Hence, the principle of sovereignty is critically important, not just for Canada, but for any nation.

The principle of territorial sovereignty is recognized in international law, particularly under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which states that countries have jurisdiction over the waters up to 12 nautical miles from their shorelines. Beyond this zone, the oceans are considered shared or 'freedom of the seas'

A Canadian Perspective

Mr. Well Um Homem Brasileiro, your query deserves a well-thought-out answer despite the undertones that it may be considered 'stupid idiot trolling'. The Canadian Arctic is an integral part of Canada's sovereignty, and it is governed under the same international legal frameworks applicable to other nations. This sovereignty holds significance not only for Canada but for the global ecosystem.

Canada's efforts to protect the Arctic region do indeed benefit the whole world, albeit under the terms set by Canada. Rather than sharing sovereignty, the country ensures that the Arctic remains under its jurisdiction. It is important to recognize that there is no mechanism or legal framework to unilaterally cede sovereignty to another entity, and in cases of indigenous peoples, such as the Inuit, these rights are recognized and preserved under national laws and international conventions.

Like Brazil would not look favorably upon a scenario where it is compelled to cede the Amazon to its original inhabitants, or perhaps another nation. Nations must work within the framework established by international law, and any changes to the status quo must be agreed upon with all relevant stakeholders.

The Global Context

Why should Canada be the only nation to share sovereignty over its Arctic region? This question brings up the broader discussion of global responsibility and the distribution of resources. What makes the Canadian Arctic special is its unique environmental and cultural context. Its sovereignty is intricately linked to the preservation of its biodiversity and the rights of its indigenous peoples. By maintaining control over the Arctic, Canada is uniquely positioned to protect the Arctic ecosystem, which holds huge ecological and strategic value for the global community.

Moreover, it is important to consider the different contexts in which countries assert or share their sovereignty. The United States, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia all have their own Arctic territories, each governed with the understanding of their unique geopolitical and environmental challenges. These nations have different circumstances, making blanket statements about shared sovereignty inappropriate and impractical.

The Little Red Hen, the Steal Fair and Square Narrative, and the Split-the-Bill Philosophy

Historical narratives, like 'The Little Red Hen', illustrate the importance of effort and ownership in the creation and protection of territory. The phrase 'It's ours! We stole it fair and square!' is a reference to the historical acquisition and legitimation of territory through force or affirmative action. The issue of sharing sovereignty is further complicated by the concept of 'well now, it's always share and share alike until the bill comes!', suggesting a reluctance to share when it affects current interests or resource availability.

Canada's approach to the Arctic is not about denial of sharing, but about ensuring that any sharing or governance is done with the best interests of all stakeholders in mind, including the environment and the Indigenous peoples. The world does not need special sovereignty over the Canadian part of the Arctic; the world has a vested interest in the preservation of the Arctic, and all nations should contribute to this effort in a collaborative and respectful manner.

Sharing sovereignty should be a choice made through mutual agreement and respect for the rights of all parties involved. This principle applies to all nations, including Canada, the United States, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. It is a matter of global cooperation and responsibility to ensure the sustainability and stability of the Arctic region.