Yukon Leaders Collaborate for Regional Progress at Intergovernmental Forum

Representatives from Yukon First Nations, the Government of Yukon, and the Government of Canada convened on February 18, 2026, in Whitehorse, Yukon, to participate in the Intergovernmental Forum. This gathering, held on the Traditional Territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, aimed to address various pressing issues affecting the region, such as Arctic security, child and family services, energy, health, infrastructure, and land use planning.

The forum included prominent figures such as 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. This initiative has been a cornerstone of intergovernmental dialogue for over 20 years, fostering collaboration and strengthening relationships among the involved parties.

Strengthening Partnerships for Local Impact

The Intergovernmental Forum serves as a platform for these governments to work cooperatively, ultimately aiming to enhance the well-being of Yukon residents. Speaking at the event, Minister Rebecca Chartrand emphasized the importance of such forums, stating, “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 also highlighted the progress made through this collaborative effort, noting that the forum enables participants to expedite action on shared priorities. “By working together in a spirit of respect and shared leadership, we’re building a stronger, more prosperous North,” she stated.

The significance of this partnership was echoed by Member of Parliament Ginette Lavack, who remarked, “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 forum also reaffirmed the commitment of all parties to ensure programs and services align with community priorities. Minister of Indigenous Services Mandy Gull-Masty expressed that, “The partnership between Yukon First Nations, the Government of Yukon, and the Government of Canada ensures programs and services reflect community priorities.”

Furthermore, Premier Currie Dixon noted the value of the forum as an opportunity for Yukon First Nations leaders to engage with federal ministers directly. He stated, “Today, we brought a strong Yukon voice to the table in discussing collaboration and collective action with the federal government that meets our needs and interests and supports a growing and thriving Yukon.”

Grand Chief Alatini emphasized the importance of these discussions for First Nations, stating, “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, the leaders expressed optimism for future collaborations and the potential to address the region’s key challenges effectively. The next opportunity for continued dialogue and action on shared priorities will take place at the upcoming Yukon Days, further solidifying the commitment to cooperative governance in the region.