Yukon Leaders Collaborate at Intergovernmental Forum for Indigenous Progress

Yukon First Nations leaders and officials from the Government of Yukon and the Government of Canada convened on February 18, 2026, in Whitehorse, Yukon, for the annual Intergovernmental Forum. This significant meeting took place on the Traditional Territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, where discussions centered on pressing issues such as Arctic security, child and family services, collaborative fiscal policy, energy, health, infrastructure, and land use planning.

The forum, which has been a platform for over 20 years, aims to enhance relationships among governments and foster dialogue on shared priorities. Notable participants included Grand Chief Math’ieya Alatini of the Council of Yukon First Nations, Yukon Premier Currie Dixon, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Rebecca Alty, Minister of Northern Affairs Rebecca Chartrand, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services Ginette Lavack.

The focus of this year’s forum was to strengthen cooperation among the three parties, aiming to implement decisions that would lead to improved well-being for Yukon’s diverse communities. Participants emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving meaningful progress on local priorities.

Key Discussions and Outcomes

During the forum, discussions highlighted the unique challenges faced by northern communities and the critical need for coordinated responses. Minister Chartrand emphasized the value of such gatherings, stating, “Forums like this one today in Whitehorse bring everyone together to focus on what matters most to northerners. Listening to different perspectives and working together across all levels of government on key shared priorities helps communities grow stronger, supports local economies, and makes a real difference across the North.”

Minister Alty echoed this sentiment, noting, “The Intergovernmental Forum helps us move faster on shared priorities and turn collaboration into action.” She highlighted ongoing partnerships that are yielding progress in housing, infrastructure, health, and economic development. The spirit of respect and shared leadership was seen as crucial in building a more prosperous North.

MP Lavack remarked on the power of partnership, stating, “Today’s gathering shows what we can achieve when governments come together in partnership. By listening, sharing knowledge, and working together, we can strengthen services, respond to community needs, and create meaningful impact for children, families, and communities across Yukon.”

Commitment to Indigenous Priorities

The importance of ensuring that programs and services reflect community priorities was reiterated by Minister of Indigenous Services Mandy Gull-Masty. She stated, “This partnership between Yukon First Nations, the Government of Yukon, and the Government of Canada ensures programs and services reflect community priorities.” This commitment aims to enhance outcomes for First Nations governments and citizens throughout Yukon.

Premier Dixon expressed gratitude for the productive discussions, saying, “The Intergovernmental Forum is a valuable opportunity for the Government of Yukon and Yukon First Nations Chiefs to meet with federal Ministers.” He emphasized the necessity of a strong Yukon voice in discussions that affect the territory’s future.

Grand Chief Alatini concluded the forum by stating, “The Intergovernmental Forum is an important space for Yukon First Nations to speak directly to the priorities that matter most to our people. These discussions allow us to set priorities based on the implementation of our Final Agreements and to advance them directly with the governments of Yukon and Canada.”

As the forum concluded, participants looked forward to continued outreach and progress on shared priorities in the upcoming Yukon Days, underscoring the collective commitment to fostering a collaborative environment that benefits all Yukoners.