Inuit are a maritime people. The health of the marine region directly impacts the health of Inuit physically, spiritually and from a mental health perspective. An Inuit led maritime governance approach through all stages of the marine stewardship cycle based on ecosystem-based management in the marine region of Inuit Nunaat (circumpolar Inuit homeland) would support self-determination and appropriately engage the people who live in the region. This session will hear from practitioners in Inuit led knowledge acquisition and understanding of the marine environment (IK and western science); conservation and protection of ecosystem function and marine biodiversity; engagement in informed policy development with responsible departments for the safe and sustainable use of the Arctic marine environment; and Inuit engagement in binational and international instruments to enhance economic, social and health and wellbeing of Inuit.

Stephanie Meakin, Colleen Parker