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Modern Treaties are constitutionally protected agreements that form part of the constitutional framework of Canada and represent a distinct expression of reconciliation.
Consistent with the on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Modern Treaties are recognized, observed and enforced in BC and in Canada. All treaty partners have obligations and commitments to ensure the full and effective implementation of Modern Treaties. To date, thirty Modern Treaties have been concluded between the Crown and Indigenous Peoples, covering over 40 per cent of Canada’s land mass.
Every year the Treaty Commission provides an update on each Modern Treaty Nation in BC in its Annual Report.
To support the full, effective and timely implementation of all Modern Treaties in Canada, the Federal Government co-developed its Collaborative Modern Treaty Implementation Policy with Modern and Self-Governing Nations. The policy has the specific goal of advancing a systemic shift in the federal public service’s institutional culture, reflected in behaviour, decision-making and actions at every level of the Federal Government, as successful implementation requires a whole-of-government approach. Please read the policy to learn more about guiding principles; direction for public servants; legislative and policy considerations; monitoring and evaluation; and further commitments.
To learn more, and to access related resources on the Federal Government website, click here.
Following the implementation of the UN Declaration into domestic legislation in Canada in 2021, the Federal Government developed, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples, a 2023-2028 Action Plan. The plan outlines 181 measures that reflect priorities identified by and proposals made by First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples; contributes to achieving the objectives of the UN Declaration; and aligns with specific topics covered by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.
Specific implementation commitments included in the Action Plan can be found in Chapter 5: Indigenous Modern Treaty Partners priorities.
Recognizing the unique and distinct relationship between the Province of British Columbia and Modern Treaty Nations in BC, the Shared Priorities Framework was co-developed to renew commitments and guide implementation efforts of Modern Treaties. Please read the framework to learn more about fiscal arrangements; Modern Treaty Nation participation in the provincial legislative and policy initiatives; organizational changes to advance a whole of government approach; and commitments ensuring Modern Treaties are living agreements capable of evolving and improving over time.
Section 4 of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act) requires the Province to develop and implement an action plan to meet the objectives of the UN Declaration, and to do so in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples. This Action Plan outlines commitments and measures covering four key themes to implement the Declaration Act from 2022-2027. Measures to implement Modern Treaties can be found throughout the four themes of: self-determination and the inherent right of self-government; title and rights of Indigenous Peoples; ending Indigenous-specific racism and discrimination; and social, cultural and economic well-being.
More related information and annual reports on the implementation of the Action Plan can be found here.
The Land Claims Agreement Coalition (LCAC) is a national coalition body made up of Modern Treaty and Self-Governing Nations in Canada. It works to ensure that comprehensive land claims (Modern Treaties) and associated self-government agreements are respected, honoured and fully implemented.
Fully implemented Modern Treaties benefit all Canadians. They clarify the terms of the ongoing relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the Crown, and define how resources on traditional lands can be used and co-managed for the benefit of all Canadians.
The LCAC website offers information, resources and several free online courses that can help people develop their understanding of treaties, agreements and implementation.
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