The Government of Canada passed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act on June 21, 2023. The 2023-2028 Action Plan (Action Plan) identifies measures which outline “a whole of government roadmap for advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples through a renewed, nation-to-nation, government-to-government, and Inuit-Crown relationship based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership as the foundation for transformative change.” It is a five chapter document, outlining: Shared Priorities; First Nations Priorities; Inuit Priorities; Metis Priorities; and Indigenous Modern Treaty Partner Priorities.
The Action Plan was co-developed by the Government of Canada and Indigenous peoples between December 2021 and June 2023. It outlines 181 specific measures to uphold and advance the human rights of Indigenous peoples, address injustices, prejudice, violence, systemic racism and discrimination, and to monitor the implementation of the Action Plan. These include measures to: advance self-determination and self-government; advance the honourable implementation of treaties, agreements, and other constructive arrangements; ensure meaningful participation by Indigenous peoples in decision-making over lands, territories, resources, and inclusive economic development; revitalize Indigenous languages, cultures and legal systems; and ensure federal laws are consistent with the UN Declaration.
The Action Plan is not intended to restrict actions to be taken by Indigenous peoples and the federal government as they implement the UN Declaration. It will be a living document, capable of evolving over time to respond to new priorities.