The Polar Sea Voyage and the Northwest Passage Dispute

Abstract

This study examines the Northwest Passage controversy between the United States and Canada beginning with the U.S. Coast Guard icebreaker Polar Sea voyage through the passage without permission from the Canadian Government in August 1985 to the signing of the executive agreement on Arctic cooperation in January 1988. Particular focus is placed upon U.S. national interests in the Arctic region, Canadian public opinion and governmental reaction to the Polar Sea voyage, and U.S. freedom of the seas policy as exercised during the Reagan administration. The implications of the dispute upon NATO and the role of the Soviet Union are noted. A concluding analysis of this event is included, as well as a prescription for future cooperation by developing a Canadian-American Northwest Passage Coast Guard Patrol.