GCI, Wilson Center Deliver Arctic, National Security-Focused Dialogue

ANCHORAGE—Globally, eyes are looking north as sea ice continues its decline in the Arctic. Russia is expanding its commercial and military presence along the Northern Sea Route; China is increasingly active as they advance their “Polar Silk Road” strategy; and non-Arctic states are increasingly engaged in the region. This new and dynamic Arctic presents pressing challenges and opportunities for the United States as it addresses its newest ocean landscape — a fourth national and open coastline.

GCI and the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington DC — the nation’s non-partisan policy think tank — have partnered to bring these important discussion to Alaskans. In a 5-part series on GCI Channel 907, Alaskans across the state can tune in to programming addressing international implications of a new, global Arctic, as well as local and regional impacts ranging from border security to food and water security.

“As the Arctic grows more prominent on the geopolitical and economic landscapes, it’s more important than ever that we keep the residents of the nation’s only Arctic state informed,” said GCI Federal Regulatory Attorney Tim Stelzig. “As Alaska’s premier Arctic telecommunications provider, GCI works to elevate the dialogue between those who live in the Arctic and those looking to the Arctic for opportunity.”

Viewers who tune in will hear from the Polar Institute’s director Dr. Michael Sfraga, US Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Karl L. Schultz, and a variety of local, state, national, and private sector leaders.

The Wilson Center Polar Institute’s program series, The Arctic and US National Security, airs Monday, April 8 through Friday, April 12 on GCI Channel 907, starting at 8 p.m. each day.