What Country Owns The Northwest Passage: Unraveling The Sovereignty Debate

The ownership of the Northwest Passage has been a contentious issue, with Canada asserting its claim to these waters as internal territorial waters. Canada’s argument is grounded in a historical perspective, highlighting the extensive use of these waters by Indigenous Inuit communities over the years. Additionally, Canada relies on legal precedents established through cases adjudicated by the International Court of Justice several decades ago. These legal rulings have contributed to Canada’s assertion of sovereignty over the Northwest Passage. As of April 8, 2020, this ongoing dispute continues to generate discussions and debates on an international scale.

The North-West Passage is a historically significant maritime route located in the northern region of Canada, spanning a complex network of islands and waterways connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. This elusive pathway had captured the imaginations of explorers over centuries, sparking an enduring quest. Initially, this pursuit was driven by the ambition to uncover a more efficient shipping route between Europe and Asia, as it was believed that successfully navigating the North-West Passage could drastically reduce travel time and costs for global trade.