Project
The Future is Due North
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Canada’s North covers nearly 40% of the country’s land mass and its icebergs, polar bears and Northern Lights are symbols closely tied to Canada’s identity. But the North is more than just symbols — it’s a dynamic place with diverse peoples, cultures, communities, economies, lands, waters and governance structures. The success of the North is the success of Canada.
In this series, the Public Policy Forum asked experts for their views on four key issues: Climate change, Arctic sovereignty, energy and resource development, and reconciliation. The authors provide summaries of what’s happening in the North in each of these spaces and explore what can contribute to building a more prosperous future for Canada as a whole.
Contact: Jane Hooker, Director of Research
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
Foreword: The future of Canada lies in the North
"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."
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
