A treaty is a negotiated agreement that clearly spells out the rights, responsibilities and relationships of First Nations and the federal and provincial governments.
There are six stages in the B.C. Treaty Process, beginning with a First Nation’s statement of intent and leading to a signed Final Agreement.
Each treaty negotiation is unique, but all negotiations involve many important and complex issues such as:
- Land ownership
- Roads and rights of way
- Forestry, fisheries and other resources
- Wildlife management
- Environmental protection
- Governance and intergovernmental relations
- Financial benefits
- Taxation
Treaties are legally binding and they represent a full and formal expression of reconciliation between First Nations and government.
