Yukon First Nations and National Defence

This collaborative project represents a partnership between the Assembly of First Nations Yukon Region and the North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (NAADSN) to undertake research and host regional dialogues with Yukon First Nations to identify defence and security priorities in the Yukon and Western North American Arctic.
 

This project will produce a comprehensive discussion paper that offers concrete recommendations for strengthening DND/CAF-Indigenous collaboration in the face of evolving Arctic security threats, as well as fact sheets and practical reference guides.

The AFN Yukon Region is hosting a series of virtual ‘open houses’ for Yukon First Nations to explore different aspects of National Defence. These sessions, running from September to November, are open to both leadership and technicians. Please register for your preferred session(s) here: https://forms.office.com/r/9anfwzF4i9

These open houses will provide your government with valuable insights from experts to help develop policy positions around defence and security. The feedback and discussions during these sessions will also shape the recommendations we are preparing to strengthen Yukon First Nation participation in National Defence initiatives (as mandated by resolution).

Below are the dates and topics of the upcoming virtual meetings. We will send out calendar invites with the specific times in the coming days. Please ensure you complete the registration form linked above to receive the meeting link and materials.

  • Mon. Sept. 16: Rangers and Primary Reserves
  • Wed. Oct. 2: Search and Rescue (SAR) & Disaster Response
  • Tue. Oct. 22: Infrastructure, Telecommunications and Transportation
  • Thurs. Oct. 24: Economic Security and Political Influence Threats
  • Tues. Nov. 5: Balloon Incident & YFN Leadership Information Needs

Specific objectives are to:

  • Identify and articulate Yukon First Nations’ concerns, interests, and priorities with respect to Arctic defence and security an era of rising geopolitical tensions; the role of Yukon in continental defence and NORAD; and climate change as a complex and multi-faceted security challenge;
  • Identify ways to enhance communications between YFNs and DND/CAF, as well as practical opportunities to advance whole-of-society priorities in the North; and
  • Identify partnership opportunities including: procurement opportunities for YFN businesses and development corporations; mechanisms to support CAF exercises and operations on YFN traditional territories; enhancing the Canadian Rangers; and dual-use infrastructure projects that also address community needs.
 

Resources