The Gwich'in Traditional Knowledge Policy entitled, Working with Gwich'in Traditional Knowledge in the Gwich'in Settlement Region, was drafted in preparation for increased oil and gas exploration and other development and research interests in the Region. It applies to the Gwich'in Tribal Council (GTC), GSCI, and all Designated Gwich'in Organizations including the four community councils, Gwich'in Land Corporation and Gwich'in Settlement Corporation.
This Gwich'in Tribal Council policy designates GSCI as the organization responsible for its implementation and is accompanied by Guidelines and a Research Agreement Framework. The policy aims to ensure that the collection, use and dissemination of Gwich'in Traditional Knowledge is conducted ethically and acknowledges and respects the Gwich'in as its holders. Although still in draft form, it is meant to guide all traditional knowledge research in the Gwich'in Settlement Region (GSR). The Research Agreement Framework sets out the terms of any agreement negotiated between a Gwich'in organization and researchers, in accordance with the policy and guidelines.
Researchers interested in conducting TK research in the GSR are asked to fill out the Research Agreement Framework and e-mail, mail or fax it to the GSCI offices in Tsiigehtchic and Yellowknife.
