Andreas Østhagen
This is the first of two chapters that will take a closer look at the national level, or the bottom-up approach, to security dynamics in the Arctic. Going beyond generalisations, there is explicit analytical value in further unpacking empirical complexity. By looking at the domestic level, and two Arctic states in particular, it is easier to unpack security dynamics and practices in more depth. This chapter will make use of Norway – a small Nordic NATO country which is also a neighbour to Russia in the Arctic – to showcase the relevance of looking at national policies, interests, and practices when we talk about Arctic security and geopolitics.