Statement signed by Arctic Coastal States 

A Commission has been appointed with the purpose of developing the maritime infrastructure in the Arctic to help increase safety for those navigating in the Arctic. The Arctic Regional Hydrographic Commission consists of the five Arctic Coastal States: Canada, Denmark, Norway, the Russian Federation and the United States. The Danish Maritime Safety Administration and The National Survey and Cadastre represent Denmark.


Statement of the Arctic Regional Hydrographic Commission
On October 6, 2010, the five Arctic Costal States: Canada, Denmark, Norway, the Russian Federation and the United States, established the Arctic Regional Hydrographic Commission (ARHC).

The establishment of the ARHC is a historic event. Since the establishment of the International Hydrographic Organization in 1921, fifteen Regional Hydrographic Commissions have been established worldwide. The Arctic Ocean remained without such a Commission until now.

Due to climate change the Arctic is undergoing extraordinary transformations facilitating increased natural resource development and marine traffic at a time when little reliable data exists. At present, less than 10% of Arctic waters are charted to modern standards. To meet current and emerging challenges, the Arctic Coastal States represented by their Hydrographic Offices, have recognized the need for enhanced collaboration and coordination of their Arctic activities.

By exchanging knowledge and information and by providing quality assured data, the Members of the ARCH aim to facilitate an environmentally responsible exploration of Arctic waters. The ARCH will thereby contribute in the development of the maritime infrastructure required for safe navigation and protection of the marine environment in the Arctic.

The ARCH is committed to enhancing cooperation with the international hydrographic and maritime trans-portation community with a perspective towards advancing the much needed Arctic maritime infrastructure.