Introduction

 

The Arctic has been inhabited for thousands of years by over 40 ethnic groups.  Arctic indigenous peoples include the Saami in areas of Finland, Sweden, Norway and Northwest Russia, Nenets, Khanty, Evenk and Chukchi in Russia, Aleut, Yupik and Inuit (Iñupiat) in Alaska, Inuit (Inuvialuit) in Canada and Inuit (Kalaallit) in Greenland.  Each group has adapted unique traditions and mechanism to survive the harsh northern climate however, preserving this rich culture and history is threatened. Forces such as climate change, oil drilling and loss of community are threatening these communities.

 

Please watch this informative video by the Arctic Centre of Lapland about the issues many indigenous people face.    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Definition of Indingeous peoples defined by the Report on 

Biological Diversity in the Arctic:

 

The Indigenous peoples view themselves as having a historical existence and identity that is separate and independent of the states now enveloping them. Lands located in a specific geographic area form a central element in their history and identity and are central regarding their contemporary political demands. Without the land and the knowledge that comes mainly from use of the land, we as Indigenous peoples cannot survive. Indigenous identity is distinct and is produced and reproduced in concrete situations, through concrete activities and by enacting different discourses (political, environmental social, cultural, etc.).