Treaties constitutionally entrench reconciliation between: First Nations, Canada and British Columbia. Treaties are constitutionally protected, government-to-government agreements that identify, define and implement a range of rights and obligations, creating long-term, mutually binding commitments. Treaties negotiated through the BC treaty negotiations process are tripartite agreements between the governments of Canada, British Columbia, and a First Nation. The goal of treaties is reconciliation. The establishment of a new relationship based on mutual trust, respect, and understanding. Certainty of this relationship is another goal.
Treaties signed with First Nations in Canada between 1701 and 1923 are commonly referred to as historic treaties. In BC, there are Douglas treaties, signed with First Nations on Vancouver Island, and Treaty 8 covering a portion of northeastern BC. Treaties signed today are called modern treaties, and cover where there are no historic treaties, and can also deal with matters not addressed in historic treaties.