The 15th Inuit Circumpolar Council general assembly commenced in Iqaluit with the traditional lighting of the qulliq and a ceremonial song. This marks the first in-person gathering in eight years, as the 2022 meeting was conducted virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Notable attendees traveled long distances to participate, such as Gunn-Britt Retter from the Saami council, who arrived in Iqaluit after a 12-day journey by ship from Nuuk.
Among the delegates present were four representatives from the Chukotka region in eastern Russia, emphasizing the global significance of this assembly according to outgoing ICC chair Sara Olsvig. She highlighted the growing international interest in the Arctic, particularly in light of recent geopolitical events like President Donald Trump’s threats regarding Greenland.
Olsvig stressed the importance of Inuit leading the agenda in their own territories, cautioning that the heightened attention on the Arctic poses potential risks. However, she expressed optimism in the unity among Inuit, citing it as a source of hope amidst uncertainties.
Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated president Gloria Uluqsi emphasized the unity among Inuit delegates from various regions, stating the importance of focusing on Inuit concerns and empowering them to make decisions for their communities. Newly-elected ICC Canada president Herb Nakimayak echoed the sentiment of unity and stressed the value of face-to-face meetings for knowledge sharing and showcasing unity among Inuit to the world.
Iqaluit Mayor Solomon Awa reiterated the strength in unity among Inuit, emphasizing the importance of collaboration as the Arctic landscape evolves. The upcoming sessions of the general assembly will delve into Indigenous rights, peace, and security, underscoring the crucial topics to be discussed during the assembly.