First Nations in Treaty Process
Last updated on September 20, 2024A fundamental goal of a modern treaty is to recognize inherent rights, to achieve predictability and facilitate strong and workable relationships between First Nations and other governments including federal, provincial and local governments.
Treaties bring predictability with respect to a First Nation’s jurisdiction by recognizing their inherent rights and provide a clear, stable and sustainable path for everyone to work together. A comprehensive expression of reconciliation between First Nations and government, treaties clearly define the rights and responsibilities of all parties in the negotiations. When ownership and use of lands and resources is clear, there is increased predictability for continued development and growth in the province.
In British Columbia, modern treaties are negotiated within the British Columbia Treaty Commission (Treaty Commission) negotiations framework. One modern-day treaty has been negotiated outside the treaty negotiations framework and is in effect:
Nisga'a Final Agreement - May 11, 2000
The following treaties were negotiated in accordance with the treaty negotiations framework and are in effect:
- Tsawwassen Final Agreement - April 3, 2009
- Maa-nulth Final Agreement - April 1, 2011
- Tla'amin Final Agreement - April 5, 2016
For up-to-date information on other First Nations participating in the treaty process please see the Treaty Commission’s negotiations update web page.
Contact information
The Treaty Commission is an independent body responsible for facilitating treaty negotiations among the governments of Canada, BC and First Nations in B.C.
The Province’s work with modern treaty nations to fully implement modern treaties occurs both with individual nations and collectively through the Alliance of British Columbia Modern Treaty Nations.
Learn more about this partnership through the Shared Priorities Framework.