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 planning a series of virtual ‘open houses’ for Yukon First Nations to explore different aspects of National Defence. These sessions will be open to both leadership and technicians.
These open houses are intended to provide YFN governments 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). The AFN Yukon Region is planning to hold sessions focused on the following topics:
December 17, 2024: Infrastructure, Telecommunications and Transportation
January 21, 2025: Rangers and Primary Reserves
January 28, 2025: Search and Rescue (SAR) & Disaster Response
Date TBA: Economic Security and Political Influence Threats
Date TBA: 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.