The vast majority of land in B.C. is unceded – whether at the confluence of the Skeena and Bulkley Rivers or in the Town of Smithers. All nations are unique with their own laws and governance structures, and it is imperative that government-to-government decision-making be the new norm on land use and watershed-based decisions.

In its absence, investors will have less certainty, fewer projects will achieve social licence, and court cases will likely increase. In the Tsihlqot’in Supreme Court decision, it states: “…if legislation was validly enacted before title was established, such legislation may be rendered inapplicable going forward to the extent that it unjustifiably infringes Aboriginal title.”

UNDRIP was adopted by consensus to protect and uphold the human rights of Indigenous peoples

Land use decisions must respect First Nations’ governance and laws, honour the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and adhere to the principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). Northern Confluence supports Indigenous-led conservation initiatives, and commits to and advocates for the implementation of UNDRIP articles (in particular articles 19, 25-29 and 32).

We build relationships and work with allies to push for implementation of FPIC in provincial and federal laws. Through workshops and knowledge sharing, we also build capacity and awareness around Indigenous-led initiatives through webinars, podcasts and other forums.

Nikki Skuce