The Canadian Coast Guard has released its Arctic Strategy. There are four pillars to the Strategy: Reconciliation, Cooperation & Collaboration, Modernisation and Northern Adaption, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the workplace.
In his introduction to the 27 page document, the Coast Guard Commissioner Mario Pelletier said, “Over the next decade, we will be faced with the challenge of operating in a rapidly shifting Arctic context as Canada renews its relationship with Inuit, First Nations, and Métis Peoples in the North, including recognition of self-government agreements, land claim agreements, legislative frameworks, and Indigenous self‑determination.
We are also acutely aware that the Arctic environment is undergoing unprecedented changes caused by the impacts of climate change. Declining sea ice and the opening of previously unnavigable sea routes will have significant impacts on our operations and program delivery across the Arctic Region.
With the CCG often being the most visible federal presence in the Canadian Arctic, the organization’s international Arctic engagements will take on increased importance. It is clear to the CCG and the Government of Canada that collaboration with like‑minded states, allies, and partners is critical as we contend with evolving international relations, and economic and safety considerations in the region.
Looking ahead, we will need to be resilient and agile in our response to the changing landscape. To this end, we envision the CCG providing a year‑round presence across the Arctic that is supported by innovative programs, a modernized fleet, an equitable and representative workforce, and policies that are made in the North, by the North, and for the North.
This will only be possible through ongoing collaboration with Inuit, First Nations, and Métis partners, governments, and organizations from across Inuit Nunangat and the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. The CCG upholds the importance of respectfully and meaningfully incorporating Indigenous considerations and perspectives, including Indigenous knowledge systems and ways of knowing, into our decision‑making processes in a transparent manner.
The Arctic Strategy aspires to capture the CCG’s vision for responding to current and emerging challenges in the North. It is not intended as a document for “how” we will get there – rather it describes our vision and goals for the next decade.”
The report can be downloaded at: https://waves-vagues.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/library-bibliotheque/41247486.pdf
