In a powerful display of international solidarity, leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Denmark recently came together to defend Greenland's sovereignty, demonstrating that diplomacy and unity remain strong forces in our interconnected world.

This moment of cooperation highlights an important opportunity for Canada to embrace a bold, peaceful vision for its future—one inspired by the remarkable work of Indigenous peoples who have been quietly building bridges across borders for decades.

While recent geopolitical tensions have prompted discussions about military spending and defense strategies, there's a compelling alternative approach that deserves our attention. The Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC), representing more than 180,000 Inuit people across Canada, Alaska, Greenland, and Russia, has been demonstrating the power of peaceful cooperation since 1977.

What makes the ICC's work so inspiring is its consistency and resilience. Even during periods of international conflict, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, ICC members have continued their collaboration to protect and maintain the Arctic as a zone of peace. This is no small achievement—it's a testament to what's possible when people prioritize shared humanity over political divisions.

Canada finds itself in a unique geographical position, bordered by major powers on multiple sides. Rather than viewing this as solely a security challenge, forward-thinking voices are suggesting this could be Canada's opportunity to serve as a bridge-builder and champion of international law and diplomacy.

Former Quebec Premier Jean Charest and foreign policy experts like Adam Gordon are encouraging Canada to think strategically about strengthening its sovereignty not just through military means, but by deepening commitments to international cooperation and non-violent conflict resolution.

The ICC's approach offers a proven model. Their work emphasizes disarmament, peaceful dispute resolution, and international cooperation—values that have successfully maintained Arctic stability for nearly half a century. The Council holds consultative status with the United Nations, giving Indigenous voices a platform on the world stage.

This Indigenous-led model of cooperation stands in refreshing contrast to escalating tensions elsewhere. It demonstrates that borders don't have to be barriers, and that people with shared connections to land and sea can work together even when their governments disagree.

As Prime Minister Mark Carney's government considers its approach to sovereignty and security, there's growing support for acknowledging the wisdom and proven track record of Inuit leadership in Arctic matters. Recognizing and elevating Indigenous sovereignty in the North could strengthen Canada's position while honoring the people who have stewarded these lands for millennia.

Canada has long been respected internationally as a peacekeeping nation and diplomatic leader. The current moment presents an opportunity to reclaim and reinvigorate that role. By drawing on the ICC's values and approaches, Canada could demonstrate that a middle power can indeed tip the balance—not toward conflict, but toward cooperation.

The path forward need not be one of isolation or militarization. Instead, Canada can reaffirm its commitment to international law, re-establish dialogue with all neighbors, and support the Indigenous-led peace initiatives that have already proven successful in the Arctic.

In these uncertain times, the Inuit Circumpolar Council reminds us that another way is possible—and it's already working.