LAUSR

ABSTRACT The Arctic is in the process of massive transformation. From a changing environment due to the impacts of climate change; to new economic opportunities and development; to new environmental pressures; and to new geopolitical realties. Within this transformation are changing borders. This article examines how borders are being altered in the Beaufort Sea. It focuses on three distinct types of borders—state borders; land claim borders and ecosystem. While state borders—based on the Westphalian state principles remain the dominate form of borders, they are being transformed through their extension into the maritime domain. However, at the same time, there is also a growing importance and strength of new borders being created in the Beaufort Sea by Land Claims agreement and new environmental concerns. This analysis will examine how these border transformations are occurring and interacting in the Beaufort Sea.