Why the Arctic Has Become Central to American Security

What is the United States’ vision in and for the Arctic and why has the region become central to U.S. security in recent years?

Joining the conversation are:

• Thomas E. Dans, Chair, United States Arctic Research Commission (USARC); and
• David Balton, Senior Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School's Arctic Initiative, and Former U.S. Ambassador.

The Session is moderated by Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Chair of the Arctic Circle Polar Dialogue and Former Prime Minister of Iceland.

This discussion was recorded live at the Arctic Circle Rome Forum - Polar Dialogue, held March 3rd and 4th, 2026, and organized in association with the Ministry of University and Research and the National Research Council of Italy, and in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Arctic Circle is the largest network of international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the Arctic. It is an open democratic platform with participation from governments, organizations, corporations, universities, think tanks, environmental associations, Indigenous communities, concerned citizens, and others interested in the development of the Arctic and its consequences for the future of the globe. It is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization. 

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