The role and participation of indigenous peoples in international arctic policy matters represents a critical element of meeting the future governance challenges in the region. This chapter describes how the nature of partnerships between scientists and northern indigenous peoples can serve as a model for partnerships of a more political nature. Such partnerships, like those developed as part of IPY SIKU, increasingly have a commitment to sharing and reciprocity that is grounded by in-depth documentation of indigenous knowledge, intergenerational engagement, and investments in capacity. Using the Arctic Council and the status of Permanent Participants as a case study, the chapter examines the current challenges and opportunities in translating these kinds of partnerships into an international policy context. It argues that opportunities for political partnerships between indigenous peoples and nation-states do have the potential to grow if these core tenants are supported.