Inuit Nunangat Now Recognized as ‘Distinct Region’

A new federal Canadian policy recognizing Inuit Nunangat as a distinct region means Inuit will have a greater say in developments that happen in the North, according to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Trudeau and Inuit Tapariit Kanatami president Natan Obed announced the new policy in Ottawa Thursday, according to Nunatsiaq News.

With $25 million over five years, the new policy will direct the federal government on the rights, interests and circumstances of the Inuit. It will also serve as an outline to design policies, programs and services that affect the Inuit homeland or benefit Inuit, according to a government news release. 

All levels of government involved in development in the region will now be required to consult and involve Inuit in decision-making.

According to Obed, the Inuit Nunangat policy is significant because it will guide the federal government on how to engage with the Inuit, especially given they are not part of the federal Indian Act.