An Integrated Arctic Strategy

The geo-politics of the Cold War no longer face the circumpolar world with the same intensity as characterized much of the post-World War II era. At the same time, a number of unresolved sovereignty, resource development and transportation issues have come to the fore, flowing from or accentuated by climate shift, new technologies, and economic forces.

The October 16, 2007, Speech from the Throne stated:

“But the North needs new attention. New opportunities are emerging across the Arctic, and new challenges from other shores. Our Government will bring forward an integrated northern strategy focusing on strengthening Canada’s sovereignty, protecting our environmental heritage, promoting economic and social development, and improving and devolving governance, so that northerners have greater control over their destinies.”

ITK has submitted a draft Arctic Strategy to the Federal Government that includes Inuit in an Arctic Strategy.

The six objectives of the strategy are:

1. Dispelling Confusion and Defining a Workable Canadian Stage for Arctic Policy
    
2. A Peaceful and Stable International Arctic, Contributing to International Cooperation/Security
    
3. Sovereignty, Security and Civility Working Together in Canada's Arctic
    
4. Entrusting the Vocation of Managing the Canadian Arctic to the Peoples of the Canadian Arctic
    
5. Sustaining and Adapting the Distinctive Linguistic and Other Cultural Attributes of the Arctic, Anchored in the Special History and Presence of Aboriginal Peoples
    
6. Building Up Arctic Sustainable Economies that Contribute to Both Regional and National Well Being

The complete Integrated Arctic Strategy (97 kb .pdf) submitted by ITK to the Government of Canada is available to the public.