Arctic Cooperation under the BRICS Framework: Exploring the New Pattern of Arctic Scientific Cooperation and Arctic Governance

Abstract

In view of the complex geopolitical situation in the Arctic region caused by the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, Russia sees the BRICS cooperation mechanism as an important basis for counteracting the West's isolationist tactics and defending its Arctic interests. Currently, the strategic deployment of the BRICS countries in the field of Arctic science is becoming more and more perfect. This study attempts to map out BRICS actions in the field of Arctic science and to examine carefully how BRICS member states can play a more important role in Arctic governance through Arctic science cooperation. In addition, this study discusses the strategic considerations of BRICS member states in promoting Arctic scientific cooperation from the perspectives of both Russia and other BRICS member states. At the same time, the dilemmas facing scientific cooperation are analyzed in terms of both internal constraints and external constraints of the BRICS countries. The results of this study indicate that the deployment of BRICS countries in Arctic science is getting better, but the lack of substantive activities leads to limited cooperation. The study finds that BRICS efforts in the field of Arctic scientific cooperation appear weak and insufficiently safeguarded. Despite the limitations, the scientific field is the primary strategic pathway for BRICS member states to engage in Arctic governance by promoting deeper Arctic cooperation within the BRICS framework.