Murkowski Celebrates Codification of Arctic Ambassador Position

Washington, DC — Today, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) welcomed the codification of the Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs position within the U.S. State Department through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Senator Murkowski has long pushed to elevate U.S. Arctic diplomacy, leading to the State Department’s establishment of the position in 2022.

“Today marks a truly significant step forward for the United States in Arctic diplomacy and national security,” said Senator Murkowski. “For too long, the United States has lacked a dedicated, senior-level diplomatic presence focused exclusively on the Arctic, even as competition in the region has intensified. The future is due north, and codifying this position ensures the United States is better positioned to protect our interests, strengthen cooperation with Arctic allies, and respond to growing security and economic challenges in the Arctic.”

The U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs will serve as the President’s senior diplomat for Arctic affairs, advancing and coordinating U.S. foreign policy programs across the region. Reporting through the Under Secretary for Political Affairs, the Ambassador will engage Arctic nations and multilateral institutions, coordinate across the Department of State and interagency, and support U.S. efforts to counter Russian and Chinese influence through the Arctic Watcher Program, consistent with the Arctic Region Security Policy. The position will play a central role in strengthening cooperation with our allies and partners, consulting with Arctic Indigenous communities, and promoting responsible environmental stewardship, scientific collaboration, and sustainable economic development.

Timeline

Prior to 2022: the United States relied on an Arctic Coordinator within the State Department. The individual was not confirmed by the Senate and had limited authority.

2022: Senator Murkowski formally elevated the matter to the U.S. Department of State to initiate the creation of the Ambassador-at-Large for the Arctic Region position.

2023: the Biden administration nominated Alaskan Dr. Mike Sfraga to fill the recently created position of Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs.

2024: Senator Murkowski led sustained bipartisan efforts throughout the 118th Congress to advance and secure Dr. Sfraga’s confirmation to the post.

2025: Congress passed legislation codifying the Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs position, including its inclusion in the NDAA.