Recognizing the importance of the Arctic Council and reaffirming the commitment of the United States to the Arctic Council.
H. Res. 431 is a House resolution introduced May 20, 2025 by Rep. Bera and colleagues. It is a non-binding statement of U.S. policy recognizing the Arctic Council as a key international forum for cooperation on environmental protection, sustainable development, scientific research, and Indigenous participation in Arctic affairs. The resolution reaffirms the United States’ commitment to active participation and leadership within the Arctic Council, urges robust funding for U.S. agencies involved in Arctic Council work, and emphasizes the importance of strong U.S. diplomacy and presence in the Arctic. It also highlights geopolitical considerations—such as Russia’s actions, NATO dynamics, and the growing role of China—while calling for ongoing focus on peace, security, and environmental stewardship in the Arctic. A notable policy emphasis is ensuring continued leadership through the United States Arctic Ambassador-at-Large and preventing prolonged vacancies in that role.
Key Points
- 1Recognizes the Arctic Council as a critical forum for international cooperation, sustainable development, and environmental protection, and notes the eight Arctic states (Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the United States) as key participants due to territorial sovereignty in the Arctic.
- 2Commends the Arctic Council’s achievements in scientific research, policy coordination, and Indigenous participation to address regional Arctic challenges.
- 3Affirms the United States’ commitment to active participation and leadership within the Arctic Council, including robust funding for U.S. agencies and organizations engaged in Arctic Council activities.
- 4Encourages increased collaboration among Arctic Council member states, Permanent Participants, and Observers to address climate change, sustainable economic development, and emerging Arctic challenges (including security aspects).
- 5Emphasizes the importance of the United States Arctic Ambassador-at-Large and urges steps to prevent prolonged vacancies to ensure continuous U.S. leadership in Arctic diplomacy and engagement.