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 assembly in eight years, as the 2022 meeting was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the attendees was Gunn-Britt Retter from the Saami council, who undertook a 12-day journey from Nuuk to Iqaluit by ship to participate in the event.
Delegates from various regions, including four representatives from the Chukotka region in eastern Russia, traveled long distances to be present at the assembly. Outgoing ICC chair Sara Olsvig emphasized the global significance of this assembly, noting the heightened interest in the Arctic, particularly following United States President Donald Trump’s threats regarding Greenland.
Olsvig stressed the importance of Inuit setting the agenda in their homelands amidst the increased attention on the Arctic. She highlighted the need for unity among Inuit to navigate potential risks associated with the renewed focus on the region. The opening ceremony emphasized the message of unity, with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated president Gloria Uluqsi underscoring the importance of listening and learning from one another.
Newly-elected ICC Canada president Herb Nakimayak echoed the theme of unity, emphasizing the value of face-to-face meetings for knowledge sharing and strengthening Inuit solidarity. Iqaluit Mayor Solomon Awa emphasized the collective strength of Inuit working together, acknowledging the changing Arctic landscape and the growing interest from non-Arctic regions.
The first sessions of the general assembly, scheduled for Thursday, will address topics related to Indigenous rights, as well as peace and security. The assembly aims to provide a platform for Inuit voices to be heard and for unity to be demonstrated on an international stage.