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, following the virtual 2022 meeting due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Notable delegates, such as Gunn-Britt Retter from the Saami council, traveled long distances to attend, with Retter making a 12-day journey from Nuuk to Iqaluit by ship.

Among the attendees are four delegates from the Chukotka region in eastern Russia, underscoring the global significance of this assembly. Outgoing ICC chair Sara Olsvig highlighted the increased global interest in the Arctic, particularly in light of President Donald Trump’s recent discussions regarding Greenland.

Olsvig emphasized the importance of Inuit setting their own agenda in their homelands amidst the heightened Arctic focus, acknowledging both the risks and opportunities this presents. The opening ceremony emphasized unity, with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated president Gloria Uluqsi stressing the importance of listening and learning from each other despite regional differences.

Newly-elected ICC Canada president Herb Nakimayak echoed the sentiment of unity, emphasizing the value of face-to-face meetings for sharing knowledge and stories within the Inuit community. Iqaluit Mayor Solomon Awa highlighted the strength in unity among Inuit, especially as the Arctic landscape undergoes significant changes attracting global attention.

The assembly’s agenda includes sessions focusing on Indigenous rights, as well as peace and security, reflecting the pressing issues facing the Inuit community.