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This paper surveys matters related to the need for a new legal regime for the Arctic Ocean. It reviews the legal system based on the UN Convention for the Law of the Sea, and the regional and international treaties dealing with resource management, (marine) environmental protection and economic activities applicable to the Arctic. It suggests that implementation of existing legal instruments at the domestic level is a key factor needed to tackle the consequences of climate change and governance of fisheries and marine ecosystems in the Arctic. It is also considered to be the Arctic Council's responsibility to build a common understanding among the stakeholders, thereby enhancing the potential for further international cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the legal and policy issues and developments in the Arctic Ocean. Arctic Ocean is a semi-enclosed sea that is surrounded by five coastal states, namely Canada, Denmark, Norway , Russia and the U.S. The 2004 Arctic Climate Impact Assessment reported the changes brought about by human-influenced climatic change, such as increase in atmospheric temperature, widespread melting of sea ice, permafrost and glaciers and the ecological changes in the structure of the Arctic. The author argues that governance in the Arctic Ocean is uncertain and that international cooperation is needed to address the impact of climate changes.