Homeland Security Presidential Directive 25: Arctic Region Policy   [open pdf - 30KB]

Alternate Title: HSPD 25: Arctic Region Policy

"The United States is an Arctic nation, with varied and compelling interests in that region. This directive takes into account several developments, including, among others: altered national policies on homeland security and defense; the effects of climate change and increasing human activity in the Arctic region; the establishment and ongoing work of the Arctic Council; and a growing awareness that the Arctic region is both fragile and rich in resources. It is the policy of the United States to: meet national security and homeland security needs relevant to the Arctic region; protect the Arctic environment and conserve its biological resources; ensure that natural resource management and economic development in the region are environmentally sustainable; strengthen institutions for cooperation among the eight Arctic nations (the United States, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, the Russian Federation, and Sweden); involve the Arctic's indigenous communities in decisions that affect them; and enhance scientific monitoring and research into local, regional, and global environmental issues."