The 15th Inuit Circumpolar Council general assembly commenced in Iqaluit with the traditional lighting of the qulliq and a ceremonial song. This assembly marks the return to in-person meetings after eight years, following a virtual gathering in 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Notable delegates, such as Gunn-Britt Retter from the Saami council, traveled long distances to attend the assembly, with Retter arriving in Iqaluit by ship after a 12-day journey from Nuuk. Additionally, four delegates from the Chukotka region in eastern Russia are also present at the meeting.
Outgoing ICC chair Sara Olsvig emphasized the global significance of this assembly, noting the heightened interest in the Arctic, particularly in light of United States President Donald Trump’s recent threats to annex Greenland.
Highlighting the message of unity, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated president Gloria Uluqsi described the assembly as a valuable opportunity for mutual learning and understanding among Inuit from various regions. Newly-elected ICC Canada president Herb Nakimayak stressed the importance of face-to-face meetings for knowledge sharing and unity, contrasting the virtual nature of the previous assembly.
Iqaluit Mayor Solomon Awa emphasized the strength of Inuit unity in the face of changing Arctic conditions and increased external interest. The assembly’s agenda includes sessions on Indigenous rights, peace, and security, set to begin on Thursday.