Nunavut Act

Canada [1993]

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July 1, 2026

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The Nunavut Act of 1993 was a pivotal piece of Canadian legislation that established the territory of Nunavut. This act, along with the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Act, was the result of extensive negotiations between the Inuit and the federal government.

The creation of Nunavut, which means "Our Land" in Inuktitut, officially occurred on April 1, 1999. It was carved out of the eastern portion of the Northwest Territories and encompasses the traditional lands of the Inuit people. This legislation granted the Inuit significant control over more than 135,000 square miles of territory and provided financial compensation. The goal was to give the Inuit greater self-governance and control over their affairs and resources.

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Northwest Territories
History of the Northwest Territories
…change was embodied in the Nunavut Act, ratified in 1993. The act created the territory of Nunavut from the eastern portion of the Northwest Territories. After a transitional period, Nunavut came into being on April 1, 1999.
Read More
…change was embodied in the Nunavut Act, ratified in 1993. The act created the territory of Nunavut from the eastern portion of the Northwest Territories. After a transitional period, Nunavut came into being on April 1, 1999.
Read More