The Anijaarniq Strategy
Anijaarniq is the Inuit practice of stepping outside at the beginning of the day and taking in the world around us: the weather, the wind, the snow, the sky, the stars and the conditions of the land before deciding how to move forward. For generations, Inuit have used careful observation, knowledge and experience to prepare, adapt and travel safely.
The Anijaarniq Strategy carries this way of thinking forward. Climate change is changing the conditions around us, but the knowledge, values and relationship with the land that have guided Inuit for generations remain at the heart of how we respond. The Anijaarniq Strategy is for Inuit and by Inuit, grounded in Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, Inuit rights and the priorities of Inuit across Nunavut.
It is about looking beyond today and preparing for the journey ahead, while taking meaningful steps now. As the impacts of climate change continue to grow, we will continue to observe, learn, adapt and move forward together. The Anijaarniq Strategy creates a long-term path where Inuit knowledge, rights, leadership and self-determination guide our decisions and drive meaningful Inuit-led climate action, so that future generations inherit strong communities, a thriving culture and language, and the ability to continue shaping their own future.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Anijaarniq Strategy is an Inuit-led approach to addressing climate change in Nunavut. It was developed by Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI), with the participation of the three Regional Inuit Associations, to guide and support Inuit-led climate action across Nunavut.
The Strategy was shaped by Inuit across Nunavut. Community members, Elders, Youth, Hunters, Search and Rescue, Knowledge holders, Local leaders, Nunavut Tunngavik and the three Regional Inuit Associations contributed their knowledge, experiences and priorities.
The Strategy has four main areas:
The Natural World – protecting the land, water, ice, wildlife and environment.
Culture & Language – strengthening Inuit culture, Inuktut, Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and leadership.
Health & Well-Being – addressing impacts on health, food and water security, mental wellness and connections to the land.
Communities & Homes – strengthening housing, infrastructure, energy, emergency preparedness and local economies.
The Strategy includes both a Plan and a Process. The Plan sets out what Inuit want to achieve, while the Qarmait Model provides a flexible process for NTI and participating Regional Inuit Associations to identify and advance specific climate actions over time.