A New Strategy for Europe's Northern Neighbourhood

This image, acquired by one of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites on 16 October 2026, shows sea ice drifting through the Greenland Sea, off the eastern coast of Greenland. The white patterns of floating ice against the dark blue waters illustrate the Arctic's dynamic marine environment, in which changing conditions have implications for ecosystems, maritime activities, and regional shipping routes. 

On 20 October 2026, the European Commission unveiled its new Strategy for the Arctic. The Strategy introduces a new approach to political cooperation among like-minded partners, with a strong focus on people, security, climate and prosperity. It is structured around four key priorities: enhancing security and resilience, addressing the impacts of climate change in the Arctic, fostering prosperity, and creating opportunities for Arctic communities and their populations.

More information available here.