Office of the Languages Commissioner of Nunavut

Welcome to the Office of the Languages Commissioner of Nunavut

The Office promotes, protects, and oversees the language rights of all Nunavummiut.

File a ComplaintExplanation of Linguistic Rights

The mandate of the Languages Commissioner is to promote and safeguard the language rights of Nunavummiut enshrined in Nunavut’s language legislation.

The role of the Office is to champion three distinct linguistic communities: the Inuktut-speaking community, the French-speaking community, and the English-speaking community.

The Official Languages Act of Nunavut recognizes three official languages: Inuktut (Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun), English, and French.

FAQs

What are my language rights in Nunavut?

You have the right to communicate and receive services in:

  • Inuktut (Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun)
  • English
  • French

These rights apply to the Government of Nunavut, the Legislative Assembly, the courts, municipalities, and, in some cases, private businesses and federal institutions.

How do I file a complaint?

You can:

  • Fill out the online form on our website
  • Send it by email, mail, or fax
  • Call us toll-free at 1-877-836-2280

If you don’t receive confirmation within five business days, please call us. 

Is my complaint confidential?

Yes. All complaints are handled in a confidential and fair manner. Your name will not be shared without your permission.

FAQs

Investigative Process

  1. Complaint Received
  2. Confirmation and Follow-Up
  3. Preliminary Review

Investigative Process

Inuktut Language Rights and Duties

Annual Reports

Languages Commissioner of Nunavut: Karliin Aariak

Languages Commissioner of Nunavut: Karliin Aariak

Karliin Aariak is a dedicated advocate for Inuktut language rights and served as the Languages Commissioner of Nunavut. She was first appointed Acting Languages Commissioner in October 2019, formally appointed Languages Commissioner in February 2020 a term she completed in 2025 and reappointed to a new five-year term effective April 8, 2026.

The Commissioner and Staff

If you have a concern regarding your language rights, or if you have a question about anything you see on this site,

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