Annex D: List of policy initiatives advanced by government departments during the reporting period

Inuit-Crown Food Security Working Group (ICFSWG)

Summary: A working group established under the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee’s (ICPC) joint Health and Wellness priority. As a participant of ICFSWG, AAFC committed to advancing the group’s work plan, including implementing the Inuit Nunangat Food Security Strategy, and developing an Inuit Nunangat school food program.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 4, 23

Development and Implementation of the Science and Technology Branch Indigenous Strategy and Action Plan

Summary: An internal strategy developed, in part, with the ongoing feedback received from Indigenous partners in research, to highlight key priorities and future objectives for the branch and beyond.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 31(1), 29(1), 32(1)

Interdepartmental Indigenous Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (I-STEM) Cluster

Summary: Launched in December 2019, the goal of the (I-STEM) Cluster is to inform and enhance federal policies, programs, and activities related to STEM disciplines, in order to increase and expand support for Indigenous priorities in environmental stewardship, research and technology development and transfer.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 10-18, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34

Indigenous Economic Development (IED) Champion File (Ongoing)

Summary: The IED Champion File ensures coordination and collaboration across ACOA, as well as relationship building and strengthening with Indigenous partners and communities, to foster an Indigenous-led approach to increasing the number of Indigenous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Atlantic Canada. Three principal areas of focus for the IED Champion File are:

• Indigenous-owned business development (i.e., help Indigenous-owned and led SMEs and Indigenous-controlled/band-led businesses better access resources)
• Capacity building of Indigenous communities and improving the inclusion of Indigenous people in the economy
• Stakeholder engagement and awareness within the Agency and the Government of Canada

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 13, 21, 31, 39

Indigenous Portfolio Action Plan (IPAP) (2021-2024)

Summary: The IPAP is focused on renewing working relationships with Indigenous peoples based on collaboration and trust, through increased awareness of Indigenous culture within the CRA, hiring and retention of Indigenous employees,  systematic engagement with Indigenous peoples, and tailored services to respond to specific Indigenous’ client needs.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 13, 15, 18, 19

Canada Revenue Agency’s Indigenous Strategy (2024-2027) (Ongoing)

Summary: The CRA is developing an Agency-wide, client-centric, and integrated strategy to build trust and maximize the participation of Indigenous peoples in the Canadian tax and benefits systems.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 13(2), 15, 18, 19, 38, 39

Indigenous Framework Strategy (IFS)

Summary: The IFS’s vision is for the CBSA to be a leading organization that engages, respects, cooperates and partners with Indigenous peoples in providing integrated border services that support national security and public safety priorities while facilitating the free flow of admissible people and goods. It aims to improve the relationship with and outcomes for Indigenous peoples and enhance CBSA culture so that Indigenous peoples regard the Agency as a workplace of choice.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 18, 19, 38

Policy on Indigenous Learning

Summary: The Indigenous Learning Policy establishes roles and responsibilities for the specific Indigenous learning needs of all CBSA employees. Through this Policy, the CBSA aims to become a more responsive organization with culturally competent employees that will foster an inclusive workforce. The Policy will be finalized in 2023 and is stewarded by CBSA’s Indigenous Training Program.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 15

Implementing CNSC’s Internal Indigenous Reconciliation Strategy - Building Trust, Advancing Reconciliation (2020)

Summary: This Strategy provides an internal guide to support the CNSC’s approach to advancing reconciliation and enhancing consultation, engagement and relationship-building with Indigenous Nations and communities within the CNSC’s regulatory processes, and over the long-term. In 2022-23, key implementation activities focused on: establishing a new Indigenous and Stakeholder Capacity Fund (ISCF); initiating a process to renew and update the CNSC’s Regulatory Document REGDOC 3.2.2-Indigenous Engagement; updating the CNSC’s Indigenous Knowledge Policy Framework; and pursuing hiring an Indigenous Advisor to provide strategic guidance to the CNSC Executive Team.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 18, 19, 26, 32, 11, 12, 13

Sidney Centre for Plant Health (CPH) Renewal Project

Summary: Collaboration with local First Nations communities, to support the local First Nations economy, through skills development and local sourcing of resources in the construction of a facility for modernized, rapid-response to testing for regulated plant diseases and scientific research. This initiative also promotes increased collaboration and learning about traditional Indigenous practices relating to the land where CPH is situated, for CFIA employees and contractors.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 11, 21

Indigenous Liaison role within emergency responses

Summary: An Indigenous Liaison Officer is responsible for identifying emergency response activities that may have an impact on the rights or interests of Indigenous peoples. Additionally, Indigenous Liaison Officers work to establish proactive relationships, and to engage and collaborate with communities to implement regulatory actions in a respectful manner.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 28, 29

Transfer of care and control of funding for on-reserve funding housing programs to First Nations

Summary: CMHC has received requests from Indigenous partners, in particular First Nations and First Nation representative organizations to begin discussions around the transfer of care and control of on-Reserve housing programs. In the spirit of reconciliation, the way forward on transfer of care and control of on-Reserve housing programs will be co-developed with First Nations, Modern Treaty Holders and Self-Governing Indigenous Governments. Two projects have been initiated with the Assembly of First Nations.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 23

Urban, Rural and Northern Housing Strategy

Summary: The Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion’s mandate letter outlines the commitment to work with Indigenous partners to co-develop an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy, a stand-alone companion to the National Housing Strategy, supported by dedicated investments. CMHC has also funded several Indigenous organizations to undertake research on the housing needs of Indigenous households in urban, rural and northern areas.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21, 23

Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

Summary: The RAP provides CMHC with the framework to advance reconciliation and a roadmap to implement purposeful and inclusive practices. The current version includes three key pillars: culture & inclusion, talent development, and housing transformation. The RAP is a living document that will be refreshed and adapted over time, to reflect CMHC’s work and priority areas.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 9, 21, 23

The Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing initiative

Summary: This initiative will support new shelters and transition housing for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across the country, including on reserve, in the North, and in urban areas, thus expanding access to culturally relevant supports for Indigenous women, children, 2SLGBTQI+ people facing gender-based violence.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 5, 22

Strategic Priority to Accelerate the Self-Determination of Indigenous Peoples in Health Research

Summary: To further advance CIHR’s Action Plan, Building a healthier future for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, CIHR is investing in impactful strategic initiatives developed by and with Indigenous Peoples to ensure its investment in Indigenous Health Research (IHR) reaches a minimum of 4.6% of their Grants and Awards annual budget (proportional to Canada's Indigenous population in 2016).

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 24

Canada’s Research Funding Agencies: Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR), and the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI; through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISEDC)

The Setting New Directions Strategy

Summary: The inter-agency Setting New Directions Strategy outlines four directions to support self-determination and strengthen the capacity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities to lead their own research and partner with the broader research community: building relationships with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples; supporting research priorities of Indigenous Peoples; creating greater funding accessibility; and championing Indigenous leadership.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 5, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 31, 34

Indigenous Advisory Committee (IAC)

Summary: The CER established the IAC in 2020, charting a new path forward for the CER and fulfilling a requirement of the Canadian Energy Regulator Act. The IAC is a vital part of the CER’s governance structure and advises the CER on building a new relationship with Indigenous Peoples. They also advise on strategic, systemic, policy and program development matters relevant to the CER’s mandate, including the CER’s oversight, expectations, and requirements of regulated industry.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 25, 26, 31, 32

Indigenous Oversight Forum to Advance the Co-development of the Nova Gas Transmission Limited (NGTL) System

Summary: The NGTL System includes significant CER-regulated natural gas infrastructure that spans from Alberta to Northeastern-British Columbia. In 2022, the CER launched a multi-phased/multi-year initiative to co-develop a mechanism that would foster discussion and collaboration between the CER and Indigenous communities relating to pipeline oversight and issue resolution for new and existing NGTL projects, in a systemic manner.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 25, 26, 31, 32

Onshore Pipeline Regulation (OPR) and Filing Manual Reviews

Summary: The CER is conducting a comprehensive review of the OPR, under the Canadian Energy Regulator Act as well as updates to the CER Filing Manual. The OPR review and Filing Manual updates will encompass several important objectives including advancing Reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, implementing the UN Declaration, and incorporating guidance on inclusion of Indigenous knowledge and protection of Indigenous rights and interests.

Phase 1 of the OPR Review included an unprecedented level of engagement with Indigenous nations and communities, with funding and engagement sessions available to support Indigenous participation. Discussions and engagement on the OPR and CER’s Filing Manual will continue in Phase 2.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 18, 26, 29, 32, 39

Enhancing Involvement of Indigenous peoples in CER’s oversight of regulated pipelines through Government of Canada and Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees (IAMCs)

Summary: When approving Line 3 and the TMX projects in November 2016, the Government of Canada committed to the creation of an IAMC for each project. The IAMCs bring together Indigenous and senior federal representatives from departments with regulatory responsibilities to provide advice to the CER and federal government, and to monitor the construction and operation of the projects. IAMC members have a shared goal of safety, environmental protection, and protection of Indigenous rights and interests. Over the last fiscal year, the CER has received and incorporated input from the IAMC on important initiatives including Indigenous monitoring; the OPR review process and Filing Manual update; and development of best practices for notifications to Indigenous Nations and communities regarding CER-reportable incidents.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 11, 12, 13, 25, 26, 29, 31, 32

Pilimmakasivik

Summary: Pilimmaksaivik is the Federal Centre of Excellence for Inuit Employment in Nunavut responsible for coordinating a whole-of-government approach to building a representative federal public service in Nunavut, including upholding its commitment under Article 23 of the Nunavut Agreement. Pilimmaksaivik does this by reducing barriers for recruitment, designing and delivering culturally relevant and responsive training, as well as workplace wellness initiatives, which aim to increase Inuit representation across departments and agencies operating in Nunavut.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 18, 21, 37

Northern Projects Management Office (NPMO)

Summary: NPMO works with Indigenous peoples, northern governments, co-management boards, communities, industry and other partners to promote sustainable and responsible resource development across the territories, supporting economic growth and long-term prosperity for Northerners and all Canadians. The NPMO coordinates the participation of federal departments in impact assessments for proposed major development projects in the North.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 18, 32

Northern Indigenous Economic Opportunities Program (NIEOP)

Summary: The Northern Indigenous Economic Opportunities Program (NIEOP) provides funding to support Indigenous communities, Indigenous organizations and Indigenous businesses with the aim to increase the economic development capacity of Northern Indigenous communities and businesses, as well as facilitate the establishment or growth of Indigenous businesses.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21

Northern Isolated Communities Initiative (NICI)

Summary: The NICI Fund aims to enhance Indigenous and northern food security by supporting local, community-led projects that reduce dependence on the southern food industry and the associated costs (e.g., transportation and storage) for northern communities.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21

Flexible criteria for CED programs for Indigenous clients

Summary: In 2018, CED adjusted the funding criteria of its regular programs to reduce barriers to access for Indigenous clients, with the goal of increasing participation of Indigenous people in the Quebec economy. Currently, a review of funding criteria is underway to allow for increased flexibility to ensure the needs of communities are met.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 5

Joint administration of Initiative Verte du Québec (IVQ) with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)

Summary: The objective of the IVQ is to support Indigenous peoples in Quebec in their development of economic opportunities related to the green energy sector and participation in Quebec’s green energy transition. Since 2022, IVQ has been jointly administered by CED and ISC.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 5

Partnership with Métis National Council (MNC)

Summary: In order to ensure the safety, wellbeing, and resilience of Métis communities, CSIS will work with MNC to co-develop measures to facilitate effective identification of and response to threats to Métis security. CSIS began conversations about partnership with the Métis Nation in 2022, and senior CSIS executives met with representatives in 2023 at CSIS NHQ to discuss Métis priorities, perspectives, and history, including with reference to security issues.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 7

Advancing Inuit-Crown Partnership: Sovereignty, Defence, and Security

Summary: CSIS has begun developing a partnership with ITK since 2022 to support Research and Data Security initiatives connected to the National Inuit Strategy on Research and the Inuit Data Strategy, as well as on cyber security and espionage issues related to Inuit Nunangat.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 7

Canada’s Collaborative Modern Treaty Implementation Policy

Summary: This Policy supports the full, effective, and timely implementation of all current and future modern treaties in Canada, with the specific goal of advancing a systemic shift in institutional culture throughout the federal government. The Policy was co-developed with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Modern Treaty partners throughout the summer and fall of 2022. The final draft of the Policy was completed in October 2022, and it was ratified by Cabinet, in February 2023.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 18, 19, 37

First Nations National Land Registry

Summary: This initiative is a co-developed approach between Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and the Lands Advisory Board, to create a First Nation owned and managed national land registry with modern technology, and a First Nation-led organization to manage and administer it.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 26, 32, 34

Specific Claims Reform Co-Development Process

Summary: The Specific Claims Reform Co-Development Process is on-going. Since the official launch of the process in November 2022, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and the Assembly of First Nations have established a Specific Claims Implementation Working Group (SCIWG). The SCIWG meets regularly to co-develop options for establishing a Centre and a reformed specific claims resolution process. The pace of claims resolution has accelerated since 2016, with 259 claims worth $8.8 billion resolved from January, 2016 to May, 2023. In fiscal year 2022-23 alone, a record number of claims were resolved with 56 claims settled for $3.5 billion.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 18, 19, 27, 28, 40

Additions to Reserve Policy Redesign

Summary: Budget 2021 provided $43 million, starting in 2021–2022, to work with First Nation communities and representative organizations to redesign the federal Additions to Reserve policy and address the backlog of existing Additions to Reserve requests from First Nations across the country. Of this, $10.8 million was allocated to CIRNAC to redesign the federal Additions to Reserve policy, and $32.2 million for ISC to accelerate existing Additions to Reserve proposals.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 8, 25, 26

Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People

Summary: The Federal Pathway is the Government of Canada’s contribution to the 2021 Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ National Action Plan. Released on June 3, 2021, in response to the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and the 231 Calls for Justice, it details the commitments from the Government of Canada to end the violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. As outlined in the 2022-23 Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report, there have been repeated requests from Indigenous partners for the establishment of an Indigenous Ombudsperson and Indigenous Human Rights Tribunal in Canada. The Government of Canada has appointed Ministerial Special Representative Jennifer Moore Rattray in 2023 to provide advice and recommendations, through engagement with survivors, families, partners and organizations, in support of Call for Justice 1.7.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 7

Negotiation of Treaties, Self-government Agreements and Other Rights-based Arrangements

Summary: In 2022-23, Canada, Indigenous partners and provinces and territories continued to make progress in rights-based discussions across the country. In 2022–23, discussions took place at 188 tables to co-develop modern treaties, self-government agreements and other rights-based agreements. Results in 2022-23 stemming from these discussions include the signature of 7 agreements, 9 preliminary-type agreements and the introduction of 1 transformative piece of enabling legislation.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 14, 15, 21 and 37

Harvesters Support Grant & Community Food Programs Fund

Summary: Launched in 2019, the Harvesters Support Grant (HSG) served an important milestone in response to recommendations from Northerners to support traditional food systems and country foods. Through Budget 2021 investments, the HSG expanded from $8M per year to $40M per year, including the addition of a new component – the Community Food Programs Fund (CFPF).

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 20, 21, 22, 23, 24

Permanent Bilateral Mechanisms

Summary: Announced in December 2016 as part of the Government’s commitment to advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, the permanent bilateral mechanisms support collaboration with representatives of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) and the 4 Inuit Nunangat Regions, and the Métis National Council (MNC) and its governing members to advance joint priorities, co-develop policies and monitor ongoing progress. In 2022-23, the permanent bilateral mechanisms with the AFN and MNC were restarted following a pause in both processes; this included a meeting of federal and AFN senior officials in November 2022, and a meeting of federal and Métis leadership in December 2022.  The Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee (ICPC), the permanent bilateral mechanism with Inuit partners, met three times in 2022-23.  Among the key achievements was the endorsement of the Inuit Nunangat Policy by the Prime Minister and federal and Inuit Leaders in April 2022.       

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 5, 11, 18, 19, 20, 21

Indigenous Reconciliation Program

Summary: Launched in 2023, the Indigenous Reconciliation Program (grants and contributions) supports early engagement and relationship-building with Indigenous communities, aligns engagement and operations with the UN Declaration and reconciliation as a whole, and enables Indigenous participation to inform DND/CAF operations/activities (e.g., real property development, land use planning, etc.).

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 13, 18, 19, 30, 32

IT Apprenticeship Program for Indigenous Peoples

Summary: The IT Apprenticeship Program for Indigenous Peoples creates a pathway to employment in Information Technology for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. The program is tackling the barriers in GC recruitment and hiring models, including the standard education attainment requirement for the IT occupational group.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21

Service Canada/Government of Northwest Territories (GNWT) Service Delivery Agreement (SDA)

Summary: Under the Service Canada/GNWT SDA, NWT Government Service Officers located in 15 Indigenous communities across the Territory provide information and referral services as well as assist clients, often in their own language(s), in completing, accepting, and forwarding applications and forms to Service Canada for select Employment and Social Development Canada programs and services.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 13

Delivery and promotion of Services in Indigenous Languages

Summary: ESDC is promoting service in Indigenous languages through various initiatives, including: processing name changes to Indigenous names, delivery of service through Telephone Interpretive Service (TIS), providing in-person service in Indigenous languages (where possible), providing communications products in Indigenous languages, and promoting programs via social media in Indigenous languages.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 13

Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda

Summary: In Budget 2022 the Government of Canada committed $29.6 million over three years, starting in 2022-23, to advance an Indigenous Climate Leadership agenda with the objective of establishing a long-term plan for climate partnership between the federal government and First Nations, Inuit, and Métis that affirms and enables Indigenous Peoples’ right to self-determination. In 2022-23 the Government of Canada worked with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners at regional and national levels to initiate dialogue and engagement on the process for advancing distinctions-based climate leadership strategies.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 18-21, 23-26, 29, 31, 32, 39

Collaborative Fisheries Management Agreement with Abegweit First Nation

Summary: During 2022-23, DFO worked closely with the Abegweit First Nation to co-develop a fisheries Rights Reconciliation Agreement (RRA). These Nation-to-Nation discussions led to the signing of an agreement that provides up to $1.47 million over four years to boost the Abegweit Conservation Society’s work managing threats to the Atlantic salmon and American eel, two culturally significant species at risk.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 2, 3, 5, 20, 25, 26, 27, 29, 32

The Tang.ɢwan-ḥačxwiqak-Tsig̱is Marine Protected Area (MPA) and cooperative Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

Summary: DFO is working in collaboration with First Nations to advance the designation of the proposed Tang.ɢwan-ḥačxwiqak-Tsig̱is MPA to help safeguard this sensitive deepwater marine environment and its unique seafloor features.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 18, 19, 25, 29, 32, 40, 46

Best Practices for Indigenous Input and Inclusion (BPIII)

Summary: DFO entered into a partnership and provided funding to the National Indigenous Fisheries Institute (NIFI) during 2022-23 to develop a clear process, with established guidelines, for incorporating Indigenous voices and perspectives into national policy development within both Coast Guard and DFO.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 2, 3, 5, 18, 20, 21, 23, 26, 32

Establishment of Dedicated Engagement Team/Single Service Point to Support Indigenous Organizations

Summary: In fall 2022, FedDev Ontario established a team to engage with Indigenous applicants on opportunities to support their economic development priorities. The two full-time equivalent positions act as a concierge service to connect Indigenous businesses and organizations with FedDev Ontario and other federal and regional programming.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21, 23

Indigenous Hub

Summary: The Indigenous Hub within FedDev Ontario serves as a cultural sensitivity learning and advisory committee of Indigenous employees and partners focused on Indigenous issues across the Agency. It organizes broader Indigenous-focused training, awareness, and educational events with the aim of improving FedDev Ontario’s capacity to support Indigenous economic development.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 15

Focus Groups for a New Approach to International Legal Obligations (ILO) Clauses in Governance Agreements and Modern Treaties

Summary: Following a series of Focus Groups with Indigenous representatives, GAC introduced an interim approach to ILO language in governance agreements and Modern Treaties, which is focused on equal collaboration between Indigenous governments and the Government of Canada, and is therefore more in the spirit of reconciliation, and more consistent with the UN Declaration.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 18, 19

Partnering for Climate Initiative – Indigenous Component

Summary: As part of Canada’s $5.3 billion climate finance commitment, and in order to leverage the climate action expertise and commitment of organizations in Canada, $315 million has been allocated to the Partnering for Climate initiative to fund projects that support climate change adaptation. Of this amount, $15 million will be dedicated to supporting Indigenous peoples in Canada, to partner with Indigenous peoples in developing countries to achieve their climate action objectives.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 29, 39

Columbia River Treaty (CRT) Negotiations

Summary: Global Affairs Canada has been leading bilateral negotiations with the United States to modernize the Columbia River Treaty alongside the Province of British Columbia (BC) and the three Indigenous Nations in the BC-portion of the Columbia River Basin: the Ktunaxa, the Syilx Okanagan and the Secwepmec Nations.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 9-15, 16, 25, 31, 26-30, 32

Global Arctic Leadership Initiative (GALI)

Summary: GALI is part of the implementation of the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework (ANPF) which was developed in consultation with the three Canada-based Permanent Participants to the Arctic Council – Arctic Athabaskan Council, Gwich’in Council International, and Inuit Circumpolar Council. These three organizations were consulted to identify funding and activity parameters to ensure that they could effectively represent their interests at the Arctic Council and other international decision-making fora.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 5, 18, 38, 39

Dental Care

Summary: As part of its outreach and engagement activities, the Dental Care Taskforce at Health Canada focused on providing information to Indigenous organizations on the interim Canada Dental Benefit, with an aim to promote awareness of the Benefit in Indigenous communities. Approximately 50 Indigenous organizations were invited to attend a stakeholder information session hosted by Health Canada and the Canada Revenue Agency regarding the interim Canada Dental Benefit.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21, 23, 24

Addressing Racism and Discrimination in Canada’s Health Systems Program

Summary: In response to high-profile racist incidents in Canada’s health systems, particularly the death of Joyce Echaquan, Health Canada established the Addressing Racism and Discrimination in Canada’s Health Systems Program. An open Call for Proposals was launched in April 2022, targeting proposals addressing anti-Indigenous racism, with priority given to projects that aim to develop and implement cultural safety training, curriculum and/or accreditation requirements, and projects that aim to integrate culturally safe care into acute care settings and traditional approaches to health.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21, 24

Cannabis Act Implementation and Related Policies

Summary: An Expert Panel appointed by the Minister of Health and the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions is leading the Legislative Review of the Cannabis Act which is studying the impact of the Act on Indigenous peoples and communities, and will be providing independent, expert advice to both Ministers on areas of the legislative framework, or its implementation, that the Government could prioritize for improvement or reform.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21, 24

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) and Palliative Care

Summary: As part of the work to review the provisions of Canada’s MAID law and its application, Health Canada, in collaboration with First Nations, Inuit and Métis organizations, started identifying distinctions-based priorities toward a broad engagement on end-of-life care at the federal level.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21, 24

Indigenous Knowledge Policy Framework for Project Reviews and Regulatory Decisions

Summary: The Indigenous Knowledge Policy Framework for Project Reviews and Regulatory Decisions was published September 26, 2022. The purpose of the framework is to support the consistent application of provisions dealing with Indigenous Knowledge in the Impact Assessment Act (IAA), the Canadian Energy Regulator Act, the Canadian Navigable Waters Act and the fish and fish habitat protection provisions of the Fisheries Act.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 31(1), 31(2), 43

Seeking Free, Prior and Informed Consent in Impact Assessment – Example of the Marathon Palladium Project

Summary: The Marathon Palladium Project (the Project) is a proposed palladium mine located along the shores of the Biigtig Zibi (Pic River) nine kilometres north of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg's reserve. Biigtigong Nishnaabeg indicated its support for the Project through a community ratification process held in November 2022. In this vote, a majority of community members supported the Project, the Community Benefit Agreement that had been negotiated with the proponent, as well as the Crown's accommodation package.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 18, 19, 20, 26, 32

Indigenous Capacity Support Program

Summary: The objective of the Indigenous Capacity Support Program is to support and promote the meaningful participation and leadership of Indigenous Peoples in project assessments, regional and strategic assessments and assessment follow-up activities. To support this objective, financial assistance is provided outside the context of specific project assessments to Indigenous communities or organizations to carry out capacity-building activities.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 5, 18, 19, 26, 32, 34

Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy

Summary: Reaching Home funds 37 urban, rural, and regional communities to address Indigenous homelessness off-reserve through the Indigenous Homelessness Stream, with the majority of recipients under this stream being Indigenous organizations. The program also funds National Indigenous Organizations and Modern Treaty holders through the Distinctions-based Approaches Stream. This stream funds co-developed approaches to address the specific needs of First Nations, Métis and Inuit experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Program representatives meet regularly with partners under both streams to advance the priorities of Indigenous program recipients.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21, 23

Improving First Nations access to safe, clean and reliable drinking water

Summary: ISC continues efforts to advance water and wastewater service transfer and support self-determined service delivery models in First Nations communities. This includes advancing development and introduction, in consultation with First Nations, of new proposed First Nations drinking water and wastewater legislation that includes pathways to protect source water and legally enforceable safe drinking water protections comparable to those in place in provinces and territories.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 5, 10, 18-21, 24-29, 31, 37, 42, 46

Implementing an Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis children, youth and families

Summary: ISC continues to implement the co-developed Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis children, youth and families, which affirms the inherent right of self-government, including jurisdiction in relation to child and family services and sets standards for the care and protection of Indigenous children to reduce the number of children in care. As of March 2023, ten Indigenous laws on child and family services have been passed, and six coordination agreements and one bilateral agreement have been signed to address coordination and delivery of emergency services and establish fiscal agreement amongst other discussions.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): Articles 4, 5, 7, 18, 31

Advancing Regional Education Agreements

Summary: ISC continues to support self-determination and transfer of responsibility for education services to First Nations partners, recognizing that First Nations operate most First Nations schools. Nine regional education agreements have been signed with First Nations, with over 50 discussions with First Nations and First Nations education organizations to advance new regional education agreements. These agreements address comprehensive funding arrangements, roles and responsibilities as determined by First Nations, mutual accountabilities mechanisms and ensuring quality education is provided to First Nations students.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): Articles 4, 5, 14, 18, 21, 23

Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative

Summary: ISC has created the Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative (CDWAI), which provides holistic wrap-around support to 22 participating First Nation communities over 5 years (2022- 2027). The initiative involves a community-led\f t and driven approach that prioritizes community development priorities by shifting the focus on each community’s unique vision and needs for community development implementation.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): Articles 3, 4, 5, 18, 21, 23, 32

Listen, Hear Our Voices

Summary: Listen, Hear Our Voices provides funding and support to Indigenous nations, governments and non-profit organizations in digitizing existing documentary heritage related to Indigenous languages and cultures, and building the skills, knowledge and resources to do this work in their communities. The applications are reviewed with advice and guidance from an external committee of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation experts.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 11, 13

We Are Here, Sharing Stories

Summary: We Are Here, Sharing Stories is an initiative to digitize and describe hundreds of thousands of Indigenous-related collection items in Library and Archives Canada's holdings (i.e., textual material, photographs, artwork, maps, publications etc.). The initiative's objective is to make the content accessible to everyone through LAC's website, social media and other online tools.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 11, 13

Nations to Nations: Indigenous Voices at Library and Archives Canada e-book

Summary: In 2022, LAC launched a free multimedia e-book, which features 28 essays and over 140 images. This e-book provides unique perspectives of First Nations, Inuit and the Métis Nation, and it shows the diversity of the histories, languages and cultures of Indigenous peoples.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 11, 13

National Benefits-Sharing Framework

Summary: The objective of the National Benefits-Sharing Framework is to improve the quality and consistency of benefits that Indigenous communities derive from natural resource projects in their territories. Budget 2023 provided $8.7 million for NRCan to conduct deeper engagement with Indigenous partners, including Indigenous rights-holders, towards the development of this Framework, and to use these engagements to explore additional federal supports to increase access to capital for Indigenous groups to invest in natural resource projects.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 20, 21, 25, 26

Wah-ila-toos – Clean Energy in Indigenous, Rural, and Remote Communities

Summary: Wah-ila-toos is a collaboration between multiple federal departments to deliver funding for clean energy projects (i.e. NRCan, CIRNAC, ISC, ECCC, and INFC), to support the transition from diesel reliance to sustainable clean energy options in Indigenous, rural, and remote communities. As part of the initiative, an Indigenous Council was established to centre and elevate Indigenous voices providing strategic guidance and direction on policy, program design and delivery, as well as recommendations on an engagement strategy and implementation of Indigenous Climate Leadership.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 18, 19, 21, 23, 29, 32

2 Billion Trees Program: Indigenous Funding Stream

Summary: As a part of Natural Resources Canada’s 2 Billion Trees (2BT) program, $500 million has been allocated to support Indigenous-led efforts to plant 180 million trees, increase forest cover and support Indigenous communities in their environmental stewardship goals. The Indigenous Funding Stream will be the first NRCan program to deploy a distinctions-based approach which would allocate funding to First Nations, Inuit and Métis, along with a dedicated stream for unaffiliated or cross-distinction applicants. This distinctions-based approach is the result of co-development on an inclusive governance approach and will ensure that the unique rights and interests of all Indigenous groups continue to be acknowledged and prioritized for the remainder of the 2BT program.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 23, 29(1), 39

Indigenous Natural Resources Partnership (INRP) Program

Summary: The INRP program is NRCan’s flagship program that delivers on the federal government’s commitment to advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples by increasing the economic participation of Indigenous communities and organizations in the development of natural resource projects that support the transition to a clean energy future. The INRP program supports early to late-stage economic participation in projects to enable Indigenous communities to make informed decisions and develop innovative initiatives for emerging priorities. 

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 2, 32

Land transfer to Métis Nation – Saskatchewan from Batoche National Historic Site

Summary: On July 22, 2022, Parks Canada transferred approximately 690 hectares of land situated on the west side of the Batoche National Historic Site to the citizens of the Métis Nation – Saskatchewan. Parks Canada has long worked with Métis at Batoche National Historic Site and this transfer of land and commitment to the collaborative management of the national historic site marks a significant step in the ongoing relationship and a recognition by PC of the deep cultural, spiritual, and historic significance of this land.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 26

Engagement with Indigenous peoples on access to the collection of artifacts under the care of Parks Canada

Summary: The collection managed by Parks Canada is composed of approximately 31 million objects, including objects and artifacts of great significance to Indigenous communities. Consolidation into a purpose-built facility has been determined to be the most sustainable way to care for and manage the collection, but Parks Canada continues to seek opportunities to facilitate access to these objects, and to discuss options to further involve Indigenous peoples in the stewardship of the collection. Parks Canada has led 127 proactive engagement and consultation sessions with 55 Indigenous communities, to date, including 32 communities in 2022-23.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 11, 12, 13

Stories of Canada Program and the Métis Reconciliation Fund

Summary: Through the Stories of Canada Program and the Métis Reconciliation Fund, Parks Canada is investing in new collaborative opportunities that support Indigenous communities in sharing and communicating their histories and cultures in their own ways and in their own voices. Funding supports place-based approaches to building relationships and formalizing working partnerships that respect the unique cultures, rights and responsibilities of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 13, 31

Supporting the Inclusive Growth Priority

Summary: PrairiesCan is developing a roadmap to improve economic inclusion of Indigenous peoples across the Prairies. The plan includes examining measures and initiatives across different work streams such as program accessibility, communications, and engagement and training. Additionally, PrairiesCan advanced a project through the Strategic Partnership Initiative (SPI) – a program that coordinates efforts and funding of 19 collaborating federal departments, to support Indigenous participation in economic opportunities.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 21

Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative (ACSPI)

Summary: The Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative (ACSPI) works to prevent incidents of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), provides a means to enhance accessibility to Restorative Justice programming and responds to the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 1-5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 34, 35, 37, 38, 39, 46

Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative (ICCI)

Summary: The Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative (ICCI) supports alternatives to custody and reintegration projects responsive to the unique circumstances of Indigenous people in Canada. ICCI projects provide culturally relevant services that may include counselling, treatment, life skills coaching, family reunification, and addressing the effects of residential schools and involvement with child welfare systems.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 1-5, 7, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 34, 35, 38, 39, 40, 46

Federal Framework to Reduce Recidivism

Summary: The Federal Framework to Reduce Recidivism aims to support rehabilitation and safer communities (including through culturally appropriate interventions), and collaborate with stakeholders to provide tailored supports for community reintegration. PS officials are engaging with Indigenous organizations and partners to better understand their priorities on how to reduce the barriers to community reintegration.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 1-5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 34, 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 46

Firearms Initiatives

Summary: To develop and implement firearms legislations and related initiatives, PS will continue to work collaboratively with Indigenous communities and partners to inform federal firearms legislation that is consistent with the UN Declaration, and to identify potential unintended impacts to section 35 rights related to the implementation of legislation and associated programs.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 1, 2, 5, 7, 11, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 37, 38

Oceans Protection Plan

Summary: The Oceans Protection Plan, was first announced in 2016 and renewed in 2022, continues to take action to achieve the objectives of the Declaration and aims to preserve and restore marine ecosystems vulnerable to increased marine shipping and development. Under the OPP, $300 million was announced to support 10 initiatives to ensure Indigenous Peoples and coastal communities play a more meaningful role in emergency response and waterway management, partner in decision-making, and receive training in marine safety, search and rescue missions, environmental monitoring, and emergency spill response.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 18, 19, 21, 23, 31, 32, 35, 39

Access to Information Review Report to Parliament (2022)

Summary: This report represents the legislated review of the Access to Information Act (ATIA). It was informed by an open, accessible, and inclusive engagement process with feedback from Canadians, Indigenous governing bodies and organizations, experts, access to information advocates, provincial and territorial governments, and federal Information and Privacy Commissioners—all of whom helped shape the next steps.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 34

Indigenous-Specific What We Heard Report (2022)

Summary: The Indigenous-specific What We Heard Report presents a summary of the feedback received from Indigenous peoples, organizations and governments during the Bill C-58 consultations and the Access to Information (ATI) Review.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 34

Inuit Crown Partnership Committee (ICPC) - Economic Development and Procurement Working Group

Summary: A working group established under the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee’s (ICPC), economic development and procurement priority area. TBS supports PSPC and ISC in the implementation of this priority area, which aims to support greater Inuit participation in the economy, including federal procurement process.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 3, 4, 5, 20, 21

Launch of the 2SLGBTQI+ Federal Action Plan

Summary: In August 2022, WAGE released the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan with a key pillar dedicated to supporting Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ vibrancy and resurgence. Subsequently, WAGE launched a Call for Proposals for the 2SLGBTQI+ Community Capacity Fund, which prioritizes organizations serving communities experiencing additional marginalization, including Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 2, 31, 34

Endorsement of the National Action Plan to End Gender‑Based Violence and funding to bolster the capacity of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations

Summary: The National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence (NAP to End GBV) sets a framework for anyone facing GBV to have reliable and timely access to protection and services, no matter where they live in Canada. Prior to the endorsement of the NAP to End GBV, Budget 2021 provided $55 million over five years to bolster the capacity of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations to provide GBV prevention programming aimed at addressing the root causes of violence. A Call for Proposals was launched in early 2022, and implementation of funded projects began in fall 2022.

UN Declaration alignment (relevant Articles): 22