26 March 2025 | 10:30 - 12:00 (MDT)
Open Session - HYBRID
Room: UMC Third Floor - 386
Organiser: Aslak Holmberg (President of the Saami Council)
Session Description:
Climate change and climate change mitigation measures, such as energy and mining projects, when implemented without the free, prior, and informed consent of Indigenous Peoples, often leads to land encroachments and fragmentation that significantly impact the health and well-being of Arctic Indigenous Peoples, such as the Sámi and Inuit. These disruptions not only threaten traditional lifestyles but also contribute to physical and mental health challenges by limiting access to traditional lands, food, and cultural practices essential for Indigenous health and identity. This also impacts the transfer of Indigenous Knowledge between generations. This session will bring together Indigenous Knowledge holders and policymakers to explore the multifaceted health impacts of these changes. We will discuss matters that need to be taken into account in order for health studies to be culturally appropriate and address the specific needs of Indigenous Peoples’ communities. Participants will look at specific examples, share experiences and best practices, and bring suggestions for mitigating negative health impacts through a holistic approach to Arctic research that recognizes the integral connection between climate change, land rights, and Indigenous health, promoting resilience and well-being in Arctic Indigenous communities. By focusing on these critical issues, this session will contribute to shaping future Arctic research agendas that prioritize Indigenous health and rights-based approaches, ensuring that the next decade of Arctic research is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the unique priorities and challenges faced by Arctic Indigenous Peoples.