Inuit look to Greenland’s social model as Canada pursues military buildup in Arctic
Inuit leaders advocate for learning from Greenland's successful social model as Canada focuses military spending on Arctic infrastructure.
As the Canadian government increases military expenditure for infrastructure in the Arctic, Inuit representatives suggest that Canada should consider adopting elements from Greenland's social framework. Lukasi Whiteley-Tukkiapik, head of a wellness organization in Quebec, emphasized the disparity in services available between his community and those in Greenland, stressing that the latter offers superior health, housing, and education services. He pointed out that the Inuit community in Kujjuaq lacks many essential services that are readily available in Iqaluit and further highlighted that Greenland's Inuit-led social services are more advanced and better maintained.
During an official trip to Nuuk, which coincided with the inauguration of Canada's new consulate, Whiteley-Tukkiapik drew attention to how Greenland’s governance, as a self-governing territory of Denmark, benefits from universal healthcare, unemployment insurance, and quality education and childcare services. This comparison underscores a prevailing concern among the Inuit about the adequacy of social services provided in Canada’s Arctic regions. The call for integrating aspects of Greenland's model resonates with broader discussions in Canada about improving the quality of life for northern communities through effective and culturally relevant solutions.
The implications of this dialogue are significant, as they highlight not only the necessity of governmental responsiveness to the needs of Indigenous populations but also the potential for collaborative governance models. By looking to the successes of Greenland, Canada may be able to redefine its approach to Arctic policy, shifting from a military-centric focus to one that prioritizes well-being and sustainable development for Inuit communities across the country.