Norwegian–Russian cooperation on oil-spill response in the Barents Sea

Abstract

Abstract The risks of oil pollution in the Barents Sea have grown substantially in recent years, triggered by ongoing and projected petroleum developments and increased oil transportation. This study examines the bilateral oil-spill response (OSR) regime established by Norway and Russia to provide mutual assistance in combating accidents caused by oil pollution. The article examines the structure and functioning of the regime, discussing its effectiveness analytically in terms of regime outputs, outcomes, and impacts, and the interplay between the political and profession-based aspects of the regime. This Norwegian-Russian OSR cooperation in the Barents Sea has developed into an effective bilateral regime. The general framework for cooperation, the roles and functions of the cooperating parties, and the operative coordination procedures in an emergency situation have been established through a set of formal institutional procedures. These procedures have been followed up by the parties and practiced regularly through bilateral and multilateral training exercises. Although the regime has not had to be activated, the results of the exercises and interview data indicate mutual satisfaction with the practical aspects of the cooperation and shared confidence in successful joint OSR operation. This article further explains the evolution of this effectiveness through analysis of the political and profession-based constituents of the regime. The limited political dynamic of the regime has ensured stability as well as facilitating the development of professional relations between representatives of the agencies dealing with operational issues. Therefore, the effectiveness of the Norwegian–Russian OSR regime has been a function of both political stability and professional-level achievements contingent on developments in the political processes.