ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the state of the art of existing governance systems at international, regional, national and sub-national levels, then highlights the various challenges arising for the governance systems due to the continuing oil and gas activities, and finally proposes three pathways for reflection. These pathways of reflection include the strengthening of law and its implementation, the development of integrated management and a reflection on the problematisation of the issue of oil and gas extraction in the Arctic. As offshore oil and gas activities continue in the Arctic marine areas, and as new areas for exploration are opened, some challenges arise for the current governance systems: cutting through all levels of governance, these challenges pertain to technical, ecological/environmental, political, legal and normative aspects. Still, all national governance systems for offshore energy activities are facing challenges of integrated management and public participation, in particular with regard to indigenous peoples' rights to land and participation in decision-making.
