Defining Engagement
There are different types of engagements with Indigenous modern treaty holders, from processes that are specific to a modern treaty to those connected to legislative, policy, and program renewal or development. Despite the differences, it is imperative that the Federal Government engage with Indigenous modern treaty holders early on in any process.
Engagement involves co-development: it should not be considered part of the duty to consult, and Indigenous modern treaty holders may have specific engagement requirements and/or principles defined in their agreements or elsewhere.
In general, an appropriate engagement with Indigenous modern treaty holders must have the following criteria:
- Indigenous modern treaty holder-guided: Process is flexible, inclusive, and based on the needs and requirements of the Indigenous modern treaty holder (schedule, timing, people involved, etc.).
- Early: Engagement takes place at the early stages of any process that has modern treaty implications and/or as defined in modern treaties.
- Co-development: Indigenous modern treaty holders are involved as a co-developer, which involves shared decision-making.
- Ongoing relationship: The process is part of an ongoing relationship with the Indigenous modern treaty holder, which requires ongoing communication.
- Support: Adequate resources are provided to the Indigenous modern treaty holder to ensure appropriate engagement.
- Timely: Adequate notice and time are provided for the Indigenous modern treaty holder to engage.
- Informed: Federal officials are self-informed on the Indigenous modern treaty holder, the modern treaty, and internal federal processes.
- Transparent: Clear communication is given on all stages of the process and on how information is being collected, used, and stored.
- Relevant: Engagement is relevant to the Indigenous modern treaty holder and does not duplicate existing efforts in other departments and areas.
- Indigenous knowledge valued: Information provided by the Indigenous modern treaty holder is respected and valued.
In this section of the course, we cover the types of engagements, the importance of early engagement and co-development, and how engagement is different from consultation.
