Introduction

Chapter 1 introduces the subject and establishes the research’s relevance. The increasing geopolitical and geo-economic role of international transport routes and sovereign states’ policies to realize their national interests in security and economic development are increasingly in focus. The Russian Federation is also active in this regard. The publication of strategic documents, namely, “The Fundamentals of State Policy of the Russian Federation in the Arctic for the period up to 2035” and “Strategy for the Development of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation and ensuring national security for the period up to 2035”, reflects the main interests and priorities of Russia in the Arctic. The formulation of strategic goals determines Russian public policy for the development of maritime transport routes in the Arctic, the creation of plans, and the subsequent interaction of public and private organizations, at both the federal and regional levels, which are responsible for achieving goals; implementing plans, operations, and control; and ensuring navigation and transport security. This research examines the formation and implementation of Russian policies for the development of the Northern Sea Route.