Arctic Coordination (E.O. 13689)

Summary

Creates a steering committee to better coordinate the U.S. government's work in the Arctic, which is rapidly changing due to climate change.

What problem does this solve?

Many different U.S. government groups work on issues in the Arctic, but their efforts are not well-coordinated. This order creates a single main committee to guide all the groups and make sure everyone is working together to protect U.S. interests.

What does this order do?

Establishes the Arctic Executive Steering Committee

Creates a new high-level group to guide and coordinate all federal government policies and activities related to the Arctic.

Requires collaboration with Alaska stakeholders

Directs the new committee to create a process for working closely with the State of Alaska, Alaska Native tribal governments, and local groups on Arctic issues.

Defines committee membership and leadership

Specifies that the committee will include high-level officials from many government departments, such as State, Defense, and Interior, and will be led by the Office of Science and Technology Policy.

Mandates a report to improve efficiency

Requires a working group to submit a report identifying where government agencies overlap in the Arctic and how to improve coordination to avoid duplicating work.

Guides implementation of national Arctic strategy

Tasks the committee with overseeing the execution of existing U.S. policies for the Arctic, including the National Strategy for the Arctic Region.

Who does this affect?

Federal agencies with Arctic responsibilities
Alaska Native tribal governments and organizations
State and local governments in Alaska

What is the real world impact?

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Improves government efficiency

Creates a central committee to manage the many federal groups working on Arctic issues. This helps avoid different groups doing the same work and ensures a more unified government approach.

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Strengthens U.S. leadership in the Arctic

Prepares the United States to lead the Arctic Council, an international group. A coordinated national plan helps the U.S. promote its goals for the region, such as national defense, economic benefits, and environmental protection.

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Asserts control over a changing region

As ice melts due to climate change, new shipping routes and resources are becoming available. This order helps position the U.S. to protect its strategic and economic interests in a more accessible Arctic.

When does this start?

This order takes effect immediately on January 21, 2015, and sets a deadline for a future report.

Report on agency coordination

By May 1, 2015, a working group must report to the Steering Committee with suggestions on how to reduce overlap and improve coordination among federal agencies working in the Arctic.