Indigenous internationalism in the arctic

Abstract

One of the most important developments in Arctic politics is the emergence of a diverse range of governmental and non-governmental organizations which represent the interests and goals of the Indigenous peoples of this vast and diverse region. Although many of these organizations exist at the local and sub-national levels and promote the self-determination of Indigenous peoples in individual countries, several transnational organizations representing Indigenous peoples across multiple states are active in the international arena. These organizations have participated extensively in international forums and associations such as the Arctic Council, where they have contributed to the development of policies aimed at monitoring and protecting the Arctic environment, and emergency response and management. As climate change and advances in technology make the Arctic more accessible to resource development and maritime transportation, the Indigenous peoples who have lived in this region for thousands of years will have to overcome a number of challenges that test their capacity and their ability to continue to project their voice among a multitude of new and powerful actors.