Gwen Healey Akearok

Abstract This proceedings paper summarizes the first network meeting in the project Strengthening Networks in Arctic Health Research and Education through Mentorship and Collaboration, held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 26–28 May 2024. The meeting brought together 31 participants from across the Arctic, including Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers, students, and health professionals.

When most people think of Arctic security, they imagine military patrols, surveillance systems and geopolitical tensions. But as discussed at the recent Arctic Security and Sovereignty Summit in Iqaluit, this narrow framing misses the most fundamental truth: health is Arctic security. For nearly two decades, Qaujigiartiit Health Research Centre has worked to strengthen the well-being of Nunavummiut.

ABSTRACT Children from circumpolar regions must travel long distances to southern tertiary care centres for specialised care. While there are initiatives underway to support care closer to home, medical travel remains a necessity for many families. The Aakuluk clinic has been operating since 2019 at a tertiary hospital in Ottawa, Canada, to provide care to children from Nunavut. The clinic team includes nurse case managers, physicians, social workers, interpreters, and several community partners.