Canada's Arctic makes up over 40% of our landmass and is home to more than 100,000 Canadians. It is an essential part of our national identity and an area of growing importance internationally. The Government of Canada is dedicated to ensuring that the international spotlight stays focused on the challenges and opportunities facing the Arctic. It is a vast treasure that we inhabit and hold in trust for future generations. Northeners, including indigenous peoples who comprise 80 percent of the population in some regions, have brought a number of issues to the world's attention:
- the dangers and challenges posed by climate change;
- the need for sustainable economic development;
- and the importance of sharing experiences and knowledge with our circumpolar neighbours and the world.