Modern treaties can include self-government in two ways:

• As a separate agreement associated with the modern treaty (pre-2000), like the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation Self-Government Agreement (1998)
• As provisions within a modern treaty, like the Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement (post-2000)

Self-government agreements are hundreds of pages long, and each has an associated implementation plan which is longer still. The implementation plan sets out the roles, responsibilities and timelines for how the agreement will be translated into reality on the ground.

Each self-government agreement is unique, but they share some common features. Each typically:

• Creates a new government-to-government relationship with Canada.
• governing structures, a constitution, elections, and accountability mechanisms.
• Includes law-making authorities and a concurrent law model, where federal and provincial/territorial laws apply alongside Indigenous government laws.
• Provides for “drawing down” of responsibilities from other jurisdictions for delivery of programs and services. High priorities for draw-down for modern treaty organizations are:
  • Education
  • Social Services
  • Justice and Law Enforcement
  • Health