In 2013 the UK Government produced its Arctic Policy Framework – Adapting to Change. The Framework sets out the Government’s position on a range of issues and policies, including the environmental, human and commercial aspects of the Arctic.

This document was the first of its kind by one of the Observers to the Arctic Council. A number of other non-Arctic States have now followed this route and produced their own documents.

The Framework places significant emphasis on the UK’ research capabilities and connections, and highlights a range of achievements. The NERC Arctic Office worked closely with the Polar Regions Department in the FCO to provide material for this document. We understand that an updated version of the Framework will be published this year.