Arctic Justice: Environment, Society and Governance

This book explores the responsibilities and failures of justice for environment and society in the European, North American, and Russian Arctic, highlighting the real and practical consequences of postcolonial legacies, climate change, and the regions incorporation into the international political economy. It champions a just and sustainable future for Arctic development and governance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 212 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This comprehensive collection delves into the intricate realm of justice in the European, North American, and Russian Arctic regions, providing a unique and insightful perspective on the challenges and complexities faced by these regions. Drawing inspiration from prominent thinkers in the field of justice, the book highlights the profound impact of postcolonial legacies, climate change, and the region's integration into the global political economy on the pursuit of environmental and societal justice.

The chapters in this collection feature a diverse range of justice perspectives, encompassing liberal, cosmopolitan, feminist, and critical approaches, all brought forth by experts with extensive research experience in the Arctic. By critically examining the current shortcomings and failures of justice in the Arctic, the collection sets forth a vision for a just and sustainable future for these regions.

The book begins by exploring the historical legacies of colonialism and exploitation that have shaped the political and economic landscapes of the Arctic. It sheds light on the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities, who have faced systemic discrimination and marginalization for centuries, and the challenges they face in accessing basic human rights and resources.

Furthermore, the collection examines the nexus between climate change and justice in the Arctic. It highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, such as indigenous peoples and coastal populations, who are often the least responsible for the issue but bear the greatest burden of its consequences. The book explores the legal and policy frameworks that are needed to address climate change and promote sustainable development in the Arctic, while also advocating for the recognition and protection of the rights of these communities.

In addition to the environmental and social dimensions of justice, the collection also takes a close look at the region's incorporation into the international political economy. It explores the power dynamics and economic interests that shape Arctic governance and development, and the challenges that these interests pose to the pursuit of justice. The book argues that a more equitable and sustainable approach to Arctic development is necessary, which should prioritize the well-being and rights of local communities and the environment.

Throughout the collection, the chapters feature a wealth of empirical evidence and case studies that illustrate the complexities and challenges of justice in the Arctic. They provide valuable insights into the experiences of indigenous communities, environmental organizations, and policymakers, and offer practical recommendations for promoting justice and sustainability in these regions.

In conclusion, this comprehensive collection offers a valuable contribution to the study of justice in the Arctic. By exploring the multifaceted dimensions of justice, from historical legacies to climate change, and from international politics to local communities, the book provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing these regions. It serves as a call to action for policymakers, activists, and scholars alike, urging

Introduction:
The Arctic is a region of immense natural beauty and ecological significance, yet it faces numerous challenges that threaten its sustainability and the well-being of its inhabitants. One of these challenges is the pursuit of justice in the Arctic, which encompasses environmental and societal concerns. In this collection, we will explore the responsibilities and failures of justice for the environment and society in the Arctic, drawing inspiration from key thinkers in the field of justice.

Postcolonial Legacies:
The Arctic has a complex history of colonization and exploitation, which has left lasting impacts on its environment and society. The legacy of colonialism has led to the marginalization and dispossession of indigenous communities, who have been subjected to systemic discrimination and violence. The exploitation of natural resources, such as oil and gas, has also contributed to environmental degradation and climate change, which have severe consequences for the Arctic region.

Climate Change:
Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges facing the Arctic region. The melting of ice and permafrost, the loss of biodiversity, and the increased frequency of extreme weather events are all consequences of climate change, which have profound impacts on indigenous communities and their way of life. Climate change also exacerbates existing inequalities and vulnerabilities, as marginalized communities are often the least able to adapt to the changing conditions.

International Political Economy:
The Arctic is also increasingly integrated into the global political economy, with countries and corporations seeking to exploit its natural resources and develop infrastructure in the region. This integration has led to the erosion of indigenous sovereignty and the marginalization of local communities, as they are often left out of decision-making processes and are subjected to the dictates of international corporations.

Responsibilities and Failures of Justice:
The pursuit of justice in the Arctic requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the complex interconnections between environmental, social, and economic factors. However, there have been numerous failures in the pursuit of justice in the Arctic, both at the national and international levels.

Liberal Justice Perspectives:
One of the key thinkers in the field of justice is John Rawls, who developed the concept of "justice as fairness." Rawls argued that justice should be based on the principles of equality and difference, with each person having the right

The Arctic is a region of immense natural beauty and ecological significance, yet it faces numerous challenges that threaten its sustainability and the well-being of its inhabitants. One of these challenges is the pursuit of justice in the Arctic, which encompasses environmental and societal concerns. In this collection, we will explore the responsibilities and failures of justice for the environment and society in the Arctic, drawing inspiration from key thinkers in the field of justice.

Postcolonial Legacies:
The Arctic has a complex history of colonization and exploitation, which has left lasting impacts on its environment and society. The legacy of colonialism has led to the marginalization and dispossession of indigenous communities, who have been subjected to systemic discrimination and violence. The exploitation of natural resources, such as oil and gas, has also contributed to environmental degradation and climate change, which have severe consequences for the Arctic region.

Climate Change:
Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges facing the Arctic region. The melting of ice and permafrost, the loss of biodiversity, and the increased frequency of extreme weather events are all consequences of climate change, which have profound impacts on indigenous communities and their way of life. Climate change also exacerbates existing inequalities and vulnerabilities, as marginalized communities are often the least able to adapt to the changing conditions.

International Political Economy:
The Arctic is also increasingly integrated into the global political economy, with countries and corporations seeking to exploit its natural resources and develop infrastructure in the region. This integration has led to the erosion of indigenous sovereignty and the marginalization of local communities, as they are often left out of decision-making processes and are subjected to the dictates of international corporations.

Responsibilities and Failures of Justice:
The pursuit of justice in the Arctic requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the complex interconnections between environmental, social, and economic factors. However, there have been numerous failures in the pursuit of justice in the Arctic, both at the national and international levels.

Liberal Justice Perspectives:
One of the key thinkers in the field of justice is John Rawls, who developed the concept of "justice as fairness." Rawls argued that justice should be based on the principles of equality and difference, with each person having the right to the greatest possible benefit of their ability and the least possible hindrance from others. Rawls' approach to justice emphasizes the importance of social and economic equality, as well as the protection of individual rights and freedoms.

Cosmopolitan Justice Perspectives:
Another key thinker in the field of justice is Amartya Sen, who developed the concept of "capabilities theory." Sen argued that justice should be based on the ability of individuals to live a life of dignity and freedom, with access to basic human rights and resources. Sen's approach to justice emphasizes the importance of social and economic development, as well as the protection of individual rights and freedoms.

Feminist Justice Perspectives:
Feminist justice perspectives have also been important in the pursuit of justice in the Arctic. Feminist justice perspectives emphasize the importance of gender equality and the recognition of the diverse experiences and needs of women and marginalized communities. Feminist justice perspectives also emphasize the importance of intersectionality, which recognizes the interconnections between different forms of oppression and discrimination.

Critical Justice Perspectives:
Critical justice perspectives have also been important in the pursuit of justice in the Arctic. Critical justice perspectives emphasize the importance of challenging power structures and promoting social and economic justice. Critical justice perspectives also emphasize the importance of promoting environmental sustainability and the protection of the natural environment.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the pursuit of justice in the Arctic requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the complex interconnections between environmental, social, and economic factors. There have been numerous failures in the pursuit of justice in the Arctic, both at the national and international levels. However, there are also opportunities for positive change and progress. By drawing inspiration from key thinkers in the field of justice, we can develop a vision for a just and sustainable future for the Arctic region. This vision should prioritize the well-being and rights of local communities and the environment, and should promote social and economic development, as well as the protection of individual rights and freedoms.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529224818