Emilie Lanthier (She/Her)

Arctic Analyst in the National Security Council Secretariate (NSCS) of the Government of Canada’s Privy Council Office (PCO)

• MA/22, History

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Tell us about your current job responsibilities

 As the only Arctic analyst at the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) of the Privy Council Office (PCO), my job is to identify and monitor policy-relevant events, trends, and developments pertaining to the Arctic and High North. 

The NSCS maintains a strategic, all-source analysis and assessment unit within the Government of Canada’s Privy Council Office that plays a crucial role in supporting informed government decision-making on international and national security issues. The NSCS is the only secretariat at PCO – which supports the National Security Council, the Prime Minister, and Cabinet – that is a policy-relevant but policy-neutral secretariat. This means that while my job does not have a direct role in policymaking, my assessments on Arctic and related issues, developed collaboratively with Canadian government departments and international partners, provide critical insights that help inform and shape Canada’s Arctic policy development.

As the holder of one of Canada’s most significant thematic portfolios, my job entails supporting the PM, Senior Officials, and the broader Canadian diplomatic and bureaucratic community on foreign visits, strategic assessments, briefings on developments in the circumpolar region, and coordinating efforts among our fellow Arctic partners (U.S., Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden) and allied organizations. 

As an academic at heart, it has been thrilling to be at the forefront of a file that will continue to be a key arena for geopolitical dynamics, environmental concerns, and economic opportunities. I hold a BA Double-Major in History and Political Science from Carleton University and a Master’s degree in History from Queen’s University. In so many ways, my educational background has provided a robust framework for understanding complex global dynamics and conducting thorough, insightful, and contextually rich strategic assessments for senior clients. Historians’ training in evaluating sources and analyzing long-term trends is valuable for helping the government make informed decisions on national and international security issues. In my role at PCO-NSCS, I have had the privilege of informing Canadian policies on the Arctic, writing joint assessments with allied organizations, and leading international delegations to partner countries. The Arctic is not just a vast, icy expanse; it is a region of immense importance to Canada and the world.

If you could give advice to yourself while you were university student, what would it be?

If I could give advice to my university self, it would be threefold:

1. Say Yes to Interesting Opportunities: Embrace opportunities that come your way, even if they don’t perfectly align with your original plans. Some of my most valuable experiences have come from unexpected paths. Whether it’s a unique internship, a volunteer position, or a chance to collaborate on a project outside your field of study, saying yes can lead to personal growth, new skills, and connections that may shape your future in ways you never anticipated.
2. Focus on Your Strengths: Although there is a ton of value in improving your competencies, I have always benefited from identifying the skills I excel at and cultivating them. My advice would be, instead of trying to pursue areas where you feel less confident, invest your time and energy into honing your strengths. This will boost your confidence and make you more competitive in the job market. Authenticity and passion always shine through.
3. Remain Optimistic in the Face of Adversity: University can be challenging, and setbacks are inevitable. However, maintaining an optimistic outlook can make all the difference. When faced with obstacles, remind yourself that these experiences are opportunities for learning and growth. Resilience is built through overcoming challenges, and a positive mindset will help you navigate tough times with grace.