On May 27th, the Inuit Development Corporation Association and the Macdonald-Laurier Institute co-hosted a one-day forum at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, focusing on Arctic security and NORAD modernization with a significant emphasis on Inuit-led solutions.
The event convened northern leaders, Inuit businesses, military and government officials, academics, and defence industry representatives. The forum featured keynote speeches, expert panels, and networking sessions aimed at integrating northern and Indigenous voices into Canada’s defence planning.
Key themes discussed included the economic development potential of awarding contracts to Inuit businesses, the dual-use benefits of enhancing transportation, communications, and energy infrastructure, and the importance of incorporating Inuit traditional knowledge to ensure cultural and environmental stewardship in the Arctic.
The forum facilitated critical dialogues on advancing Arctic security and provided a platform for meaningful engagement between Inuit communities and defence stakeholders, highlighting the importance of collaborative approaches to national security and regional development.
To view a full photo gallery from the conference please click here.
