A map of Indigenous populations in the Arctic in percentages (https://nordregio.org/maps/indigenous-population-in-the-arctic/)

The Arctic is changing: how do these changes affect Indigenous peoples? Whether that be connected to tourism or other tensions, there are a few key themes and questions that surface.

The cultures and identities of Indigenous peoples have been challenged since the onset of colonization and are being further tested as the environments they have known forever are changing with global warming and their societies are being forced to change with an influx of people and development. To further exacerbate these challenges, Indigenous peoples have often been excluded or silenced in decision-making processes and thus Indigenous interests have been ignored when making important choices about the future of the Arctic. This website explores the intricacies of Indigenous representation in the Arctic–focusing on the structures of the Arctic Council which is the primary international governance body in the Arctic. In addition, we hone in on one challenge faced by Indigenous peoples in the Arctic that is growing as the region changes–tourism. 

Tourism promotes international care for the Arctic, helping spread and support the feeling that people around the world have a personal connection to the region and a stake in its future. How can we maintain this international sense of responsibility without compromising local priorities amid tourism? Without prioritizing tourists over local residents and ventures? For example, part of the success of preventing the development of Pebble Mine in Alaska can be attributed to international advocates who want to preserve the area as a world-class tourist destination; they care about the region (and can effectively spread this sentiment to others) because they have experienced it through tourism and can suggest that anyone could experience it so intimately through tourism.

Main Questions & Summary of Themes 

How can we make effective/accountable policy for managing Arctic tourism amidst regional differences and priorities that vary between Indigenous groups in the Arctic?

How can we incentivize the implementation of tourism restrictions/management in the interest of Indigenous rights amid the economic benefits of Arctic tourism?

As we discuss management of tourism and policy creation in the Arctic, we can broaden the discussion to think about representation of Indigenous voices in policy development and implementation in the Arctic. There are numerous challenges that are currently limiting the voice of Indigenous peoples in the Arctic, in tourism and elsewhere. A big question for the future of the region and the Arctic Council in particular is: how can they meaningfully integrate Indigenous peoples, give Indigenous issues a substantive platform, and support the amplification of Indigenous voices on an international level?