Equatorial North: Centering the Arctic in Global and Local Security

Abstract

As Canada prepares to chair the Arctic Council (2013-2015) now is both a strategic and essential time to reassess political, economic and social matters pertaining to the Arctic region. Frequently considered a barometer for climate change, the Arctic is a region highly affected by climate change and environmental degradation, giving rise to a number of environmental, socio-economic and political challenges. Most directly affected by these problems are the indigenous populations who call the Far North home. As indigenous populations continue to reassert their voice and global interest in the region increase, new strategies must be adopted to successfully reconcile diverging interests.