The Arctic that emerged over the past forty years became one of the most innovative policy environments in the world. The region developed impressive systems for intra-regional cooperation, responded to the challenges of rapid environmental change, empowered and engaged with Indigenous peoples, and dealt with the multiple challenges of natural resource development. The second edition of The Palgrave Handbook on Arctic Policy and Politics draws on scholars from many countries and academic disciplines to focus on the central theme of Arctic policy innovation and political action. The portrait that emerges from these chapters is of a complex, fluid policy environment, shaped by internal, national and global dynamics and by a wide range of political, legal, economic, and social transitions. In this second edition, all chapters have been revised, updating the volume with the latest research and analysis especially on the changing geo-political situation since the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the election of Donald Trump. New chapters explore post-secondary education and the future of work in the Circumpolar North.

The Arctic is a complex political place and is on the verge of becoming even more so due to Russian militarism, increasing Chinese engagement and the cascading effects of rapid climate change. Effective, proactive and forward-looking policy innovation will be required if the Far North is to address its challenges and capitalize on its opportunities. The Arctic has become, ironically, "hot" in political terms, presenting escalating challenges for Arctic peoples and nations seeking to respond to political agendas that increasingly emerge from outside the region.