The 15th Inuit Circumpolar Council general assembly was inaugurated in Iqaluit with the traditional lighting of the qulliq and a ceremonial song. After eight years, this marks the return to an in-person assembly, as the 2022 meeting was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Delegates from various regions made significant journeys to attend the assembly, such as Gunn-Britt Retter from the Saami council, who traveled by ship from Nuuk to Iqaluit in a 12-day voyage. Additionally, four delegates from the Chukotka region in eastern Russia also attended the assembly in person.

Sara Olsvig, the outgoing ICC chair, emphasized the global significance of this assembly, noting a renewed global interest in the Arctic, particularly following United States President Donald Trump’s threats to annex Greenland. Olsvig stressed the importance of Inuit asserting their agenda in their homelands amidst the growing attention on the Arctic.

The opening ceremony highlighted the theme of unity, with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated president Gloria Uluqsi emphasizing the need for mutual listening and learning among Inuit from different regions. Newly-elected ICC Canada president Herb Nakimayak echoed the importance of face-to-face meetings for knowledge sharing and unity among Inuit communities.

Iqaluit Mayor Solomon Awa underscored the strength of Inuit collaboration in the face of changing Arctic dynamics, emphasizing the vital role of unity for addressing the challenges ahead. The upcoming sessions of the general assembly will delve into discussions on Indigenous rights, peace, and security starting Thursday.