Geopolitical Challenges Facing the Atlantic Basin in the Context of a Polarized International System

The Atlantic Ocean is a distinct extension of the world's hydrosphere, with an approximate surface area of 106,500,000 km², which represents around 20% of the Earth's surface. In the field of international relations, it serves as an operational theater for 65 sovereign states.
In addition, through its six main maritime gateways, it welcomes non-Atlantic countries seeking resources and other interests, fueled by the growing demand for minerals and raw materials driven by the energy transition, which fuels international competition.
The panel analyses the geopolitical challenges facing the Atlantic basin in two critical dimensions: the ongoing processes related to maritime border claims and the growing demand for minerals and raw materials, and its relevance in the context of a polarized international system, opposing what has been defined as open, free and democratic maritime powers and the autocratic and tendentially centralized continental power, as defined by Mackinder.
Its aim is to assess the long-term prospective risks for Europe arising from social and security concerns, along with the potential for regional instability. In addition, it considers the imminent challenges that Portugal will face in this evolving geopolitical framework in the Atlantic.