A great power competition is intensifying in the Arctic, extending beyond interest in Greenland to other strategically important locations like the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard. The century-old Svalbard Treaty, granting access to nearly all nations, has left the icebound islands vulnerable to potential interference from Russia and China, prompting Norway to tighten its control over the region.

The cluster of islands, a part of Norway, operates under a unique treaty dating back to World War I, allowing visa-free residency for individuals from various nations. For decades, Svalbard's international research station fostered global scientific collaboration, with researchers from different countries working together. However, this era of international cooperation is showing signs of strain as geopolitical tensions rise.

Norway is now taking steps to assert its sovereignty over Svalbard and mitigate foreign influence. These measures include stripping voting rights from foreigners residing on Svalbard and blocking land sales to foreign buyers. These actions reflect Norway's growing concern about the potential for other nations to exploit the treaty for strategic gain.

The Svalbard Treaty, signed in 1920, grants Norway sovereignty over the archipelago but also guarantees citizens of signatory countries equal rights to engage in economic activities, such as fishing, hunting, and mining. This has historically fostered a spirit of international collaboration in the region. However, the treaty's provisions have also created opportunities for countries like Russia and China to establish a presence in Svalbard, raising concerns about potential security implications.

Russia maintains a significant presence in Svalbard, primarily through its coal mining operations in the town of Barentsburg. While these activities are permitted under the treaty, they also provide Russia with a foothold in the Arctic, allowing it to monitor activities and project influence in the region. China has also increased its presence in Svalbard in recent years, primarily through scientific research and tourism.

Norway's efforts to tighten its grip on Svalbard reflect a broader trend of increasing geopolitical competition in the Arctic. As climate change melts the ice cap, new shipping routes and resource extraction opportunities are opening up, making the region increasingly attractive to major powers. This has led to a scramble for influence, with countries like Russia, China, the United States, and Canada all vying for a greater role in the Arctic.