Does Mining Development Benefit Indigenous Communities?: Exploring the Case of the Inuit of Arctic Bay and the Nanisivik Mine

POLS 4101, Arctic Politics. CD: Gabrielle Slowey.

Abstract

Mining companies in northern Canada often argue that their mines will benefit Indigenous communities with employment opportunities and they promise to work with communities to respect local laws and customs. However, the essay "Does Mining Development Benefit Indigenous Communities?: Exploring the Case of the Inuit of Arctic Bay and the Nanisivik Mine” argues persuasively that mining does not benefit Indigenous communities. Focussing specifically on the Nanisivik mine and the Tununirusirmiut, the essay shows a lack of meaning consultation with this Inuit community, a diminishment of sovereignty,  an erosion of traditional economies, and a breakdown of cultural values, all causing economic, political and social instability. This well researched essay clearly and amply demonstrates the negative effects of mining on the Inuit community in Arctic Bay. The essay does a beautiful job in assessing and synthesizing wide-ranging material in an organized and accessible fashion.