Inuit leaders have issued a statement calling on the federal government to formally partner with Inuit rights holders in shaping Canada’s Arctic sovereignty, defence, and security policy.

The statement, released by the four Inuit Treaty Organizations representing all Inuit in Canada, emphasizes that Inuit Nunangat — the Inuit homeland — encompasses 40 percent of Canada’s land area, most of its coastline, and its entire Arctic territory. Inuit make up 82 percent of the region’s population.

The statement describes Inuit as Canada’s “Arctic strength” and notes that Canada would not be an Arctic power without Inuit, their land, and the contributions Inuit make every day to occupying, monitoring and safeguarding the region.

Inuit leaders rejected what they described as outdated colonial approaches to Arctic policy that have historically marginalized Inuit communities from decision-making on matters affecting their land and way of life. The statement says Inuit are aware of the rapidly changing geopolitical environment but “refuse to be marginalized into the role of spectators as our homeland is re-militarized.”

The statement calls on the federal government to prioritize coordination with Inuit rights holders in Arctic security planning and decision-making, and to invest in infrastructure and services needed to create prosperity across Inuit Nunangat.

“Respect and support for Inuit rights, governance and self-determination must form the foundation of Canada’s sovereignty and security policy in Inuit Nunangat,” the statement reads.

The statement also says that Canada’s influence in the region is only as strong as its relationship with Inuit, and that as other nations seek greater influence in the Arctic, they are taking steps to partner with Inuit and others to secure their respective Arctic futures — and Canada must do the same.