Current Policy & Initiatives

Intergovernmental negotiations & consultation

UBCM monitors and responds to legislative changes, proposals, and other initiatives regarding First Nations that are relevant to local governments. UBCM also tracks key First Nation court decisions, particularly relating to consultation, and communicates to members on any implications to local governments arising from new rulings.

Memorandum of Understanding with the Province

The Province recognizes that local governments have a unique interest in all types of negotiations with First Nations. With this MOU, the Province committed to consulting with local governments on negotiations that affect local government jurisdiction.

MOU: Local government participation in the new relationship with First Nations in BC

Treaty negotiations

UBCM supports local government participation in the treaty process. UBCM provides input on general policy issues as requested or required.

Resources on UNDRIP for local governments

Full text of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

• The provincial government passed the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) in 2019, which established UNDRIP as the Province's framework for reconciliation.  
• BC's DRIPA launch page has annual reports as required by the Act, stories, and details on implementation.
• A Local government fact sheet produced by the Province answers common questions. 
• Federally, Bill C-15 was passed in 2021, requiring the Government of Canada to ensure Canadian law is consistent with UNDRIP, and requires an action plan to achieve the objectives of the Declaration. 
• Indigenous Corporate Training and Indigenous Community for Leadership & Development offer training programs related to implementing UNDRIP.
• Legal review on DRIPA from the Canadian Bar Association, Gowling WLG, and Mondaq
• Community-to-Community Forum: This funding program supports the coming together of First Nations and local governments around the province to discuss common regional goals and opportunities for joint action.

External links

Local governments

Federation of Canadian Municipalities: First Nations-Municipal Community Economic Development Initiative

Metro Vancouver Indigenous Relations Committee

Indigenous

First Nations Summit

Union of BC Indian Chiefs

BC Assembly of First Nations

Assembly of First Nations

Métis Nation BC

First Nations Technology Council

Provincial

Ministry of Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation (MIRR)

British Columbia Treaty Commission

Federal

Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)

Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC)

ISC BC Region