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 assembly was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Notable attendees traveled long distances to be present, such as Gunn-Britt Retter from the Saami council, who even journeyed to Iqaluit by ship. Sharing her travel experience, Retter mentioned arriving on time after a 12-day voyage from Nuuk.
Among the participants are delegates from the Chukotka region in eastern Russia, underscoring the significance of this global assembly. Outgoing ICC chair Sara Olsvig highlighted the increasing global interest in the Arctic, particularly in light of President Donald Trump’s previous statements regarding Greenland.
Olsvig emphasized the importance of Inuit determining their own agenda in their homelands amidst the growing attention on the Arctic. She expressed both concerns and hope, emphasizing the unity and strength of Inuit voices on the international stage.
The opening ceremony emphasized unity, with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated president Gloria Uluqsi stressing the importance of listening and learning from each other. Despite representing different regions, the Inuit participants stood united as one, focusing on addressing their own concerns and making autonomous decisions.
Newly-elected ICC Canada president Herb Nakimayak echoed the sentiment of unity and stressed the value of face-to-face meetings for knowledge sharing. Iqaluit Mayor Solomon Awa highlighted the significance of collaboration among Inuit, especially as the Arctic undergoes significant changes and attracts increased global interest.
The general assembly’s agenda includes discussions on Indigenous rights, as well as peace and security, with the first two sessions scheduled to begin on Thursday.