The Importance of the Arctic Council for Indigenous Peoples

How the Council's Permanent Participants bring their perspectives and knowledge to the table

Article by:
Saami Council

The category of Permanent Participants is a unique model of including Indigenous Peoples in decision-making. It was created to provide Arctic Indigenous Peoples with the means of active participation and full consultation in the Council's deliberations. The Arctic Council is the only international body that has accredited Indigenous Peoples this status. In this article Permanent Participants reflect on the importance of the Council for them - and vice versa.

In general, the engagement by Arctic Indigenous Peoples in the Arctic Council is guided by the understanding that healthy and productive ecosystems, both on land and in marine environments, are fundamental to the cultures, identities, and livelihoods of Arctic Indigenous Peoples. These cultures rely on local food sources and traditional materials to maintain health, safety, and well-being. Indigenous Knowledge has been generated and passed down for generations, ensuring a balanced relationship with the surroundings and the environment. However, climate change, pollution, land use changes, and encroachments are altering natural landscapes and threatening Indigenous ways of life. The Arctic Council is important, as our homelands and matters related to these lands and waters are on the Arctic Council agenda. The Permanent Participants are at the Arctic Council table to address the challenges the Arctic Indigenous Peoples are facing and amplify the voices of Arctic Indigenous Peoples.

Since the first gathering of Arctic Indigenous Peoples in Copenhagen in 1973, cooperation among Indigenous Peoples across the circumpolar region has evolved significantly. From early efforts to unify Indigenous Peoples' voices in addressing shared concerns to achieving formal recognition in international cooperation, the journey has been marked by both challenges and accomplishments. At the heart of this progress is the Arctic Council, an intergovernmental forum that has provided Arctic Indigenous Peoples with a seat at the table to shape policies affecting their lands, cultures, and ways of life.

The first Arctic Indigenous Peoples' meeting in 1973 laid the foundation for organized cooperation among Indigenous Peoples across national borders. The participants envisioned a collective body to advocate for their rights and interests. Their declaration emphasized the need to protect their lands, resources, and cultural heritage for future generations.