Strengthening Collaborative Marine Governance for Nunavummiut

Iqaluit, Nunavut, December 17, 2025—The Nunavut Marine Council (NMC) is proud to announce the release of its 2026-2031 Strategic Plan, a five-year roadmap to strengthen Nunavut’s role in Arctic marine governance, advance Inuit priorities and safeguard marine areas for future generations.

Rooted in Article 15.4.1 of the Nunavut Agreement and guided by Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and Inuit Qaujimaningit, the plan establishes a clear direction for how the NMC will fulfill its mandate of advising governments on marine areas.

“Nunavut’s communities depend on the ocean for food, culture, and livelihoods,” said Joshua Arreak, Council Member and Chairperson of the Nunavut Planning Commission.
“This Strategic Plan positions the Nunavut Marine Council as a trusted and respected voice for collaborative marine governance, placing Inuit Qaujimaningit and community priorities at the centre of decision-making.”

Strategic Priorities

The 2026–2031 Strategic Plan focuses on two strategic priorities:

1. Enhancing NMC capacity and strengthening collaboration through Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and Inuit Qaujimaningit.
2. Supporting collaborative marine governance through regulatory and policy coordination at territorial, federal and international levels.

A Collaborative Vision for Ocean Governance

The NMC’s vision emphasizes sustainable management of marine areas to ensure long-term benefits for Inuit, Nunavummiut and all Canadians. The Strategic Plan commits to embedding Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit in all aspects of the council’s work, advocating for integrated policies, and ensuring Inuit voices shape the future of Arctic marine management.

This launch marks a significant milestone for the Council, building on the foundations established through its first Strategic Plan (2018-2023). Over the next five years, the NMC will focus on strengthening its role as a coordinating and advisory body, bringing Inuit Qaujimaningit, Inuit priorities, scientific knowledge and regulatory frameworks together to address emerging marine challenges, including increased shipping activity and development pressures.

“Strong, coordinated governance is essential as the Arctic continues to change,” said Patricia Enuapik, Council Member and Commissioner with the Nunavut Planning Commission.
“Through this Strategic Plan, we are working to ensure that Nunavut’s marine areas remain healthy, productive, and well-governed for generations to come.”

“Collaboration across institutions and respect for Inuit stewardship are fundamental to sustainable marine management in Nunavut,” said Daniel Shewchuk, Council Member and Chairperson of the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board.
“This Strategic Plan strengthens our shared ability to provide informed and coordinated advice on marine issues.”

About the Nunavut Marine Council

Established under Article 15 of the Nunavut Agreement, the NMC is composed of the Nunavut Impact Review Board (NIRB), the Nunavut Planning Commission (NPC), the Nunavut Water Board (NWB), and the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board (NWMB). Together, these Institutions of Public Government provide coordinated advice and recommendations on Nunavut’s marine areas to governments in support of sustainable, Inuit-centred marine governance.