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Foreword: The future of Canada lies in the North
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Released:July 9, 2019
Project: Future is Due North
BY BOB MCLEOD
PREMIER OF NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
The Arctic has always been an important symbol for Canada. We like to think of ourselves as a northern nation, with a leadership role in the Arctic and a clear ability to set policy and determine what happens in the region. Stories like those of the Franklin expedition and the Lost Patrol are woven into our history curriculums, and people in every corner of the country identify with familiar Arctic images like the Inukshuk, polar bear and Aurora Borealis.
But what do Canadians really know about today’s North, and how useful are these popular beliefs and images for helping address the opportunities and challenges our country faces right now in the modern Arctic?
As the effects of climate change increase access to the Arctic, the global geopolitical context for the region is changing. With enormous untapped opportunities for shipping, research and resource development, many countries are looking to influence the development of policies and international agreements that will benefit them and their interests.
Global powers like China, Russia and the United States are deliberately ramping up their presence and level of activity within their own borders and across the circumpolar world in an effort to secure and further their national priorities.
Other nations clearly understand the importance of the global north and they are moving to secure their interests but, we must ask ourselves, is Canada keeping pace?
If Canada wants to retain its effective power to shape and influence decisions in its own backyard, it must make sure it clearly understands its interests in the Arctic and is prepared to back them with solid policies and strategic investments.
Knowing the North is a critical prerequisite for good policy and good decision making. Old understandings and popular sentiments about the Arctic will not position our country to adequately address the challenges and opportunities the Canadian North faces in the 21st century.
The papers collected here by the Public Policy Forum represent an important contribution to Northern policy research. Their authors are leading the way in studying and thinking about today’s Arctic on matters of vital national—and international—interest: the effects of climate change on a fragile environment, Indigenous reconciliation, social justice, and the responsible development of strategic natural resources.
As global interest in the Arctic continues to grow and more and more countries move to establish a commanding presence here, research like this will become increasingly important in helping Canada retain its leadership role in the region, and to create a positive future for Northern residents—and all Canadians—that’s supported by a clear vision and good, evidence-based policies.
Reports
Strategic Assets in Uncertain Times: Unlocking Energy and Resources in Canada’s North
Canada has lost its edge in northern development and research. The North's resources have important strategic and economic implications for Canada, and their development - done in the right way - has huge potential benefits for all Canadians now and into the future.
Ending Domestic and Family Violence in the North: The Next Step in Reconciliation
The North has the highest numbers of police-reported domestic and family violence in Canada. To successfully tackle this issue, territorial governments must join forces with Indigenous organizations, corporations and other actors. Ultimately, government must support and allow Indigenous communities to develop their own unique and specific responses to violence.
Fire and Ice: Arctic Responses to Climate Change and Lessons for the Rest of Canada
The North is warming faster than any other place in Canada. The lessons being learned about mitigation in the North can help all of Canada adapt to a rapidly warming world.
Uncertain Boundaries, Untapped Potential: Challenges and Opportunities for Canada’s Arctic Sovereignty
Over the last two decades, global interest in the Arctic has grown exponentially. Canada can either be a leader in defining its northern sovereignty and development or have its roles and responsibilities determined for it by global actors already active in the region.
Articles
Executive Summary: The North’s future is Canada’s future, too
Is Canada squandering its Arctic advantage? This series of four experts' views on climate, resources, sovereignty and reconciliation show that the North's key issues are closely tied to Canada's strategic priorities