The effect of climate change on food security: the case of the Inuit in Canada

Abstract

Canadian Inuit experience the highest rates of food insecurity of any indigenous population in an industrialised nation, a paradox given Canada's status as one of the world's most food-secure countries. This study examines climate change as an underexplored driver of food security, focusing on the Inuit of the Inuit Nunangat. Using a mix-method approach combining survey data and qualitative content analysis, the study applies the six-dimensional food security framework to assess how climate-related environmental changes affect food security. Findings confirm that climate change significantly exacerbates Inuit food insecurity, with implications for both policy and the preservation of indigenous cultural identity. The research also highlights the importance of agency and sustainability in addressing Indigenous food insecurity and argues for more locally adapted and Inuit-led policy responses.