Each modern treaty is unique, because every Indigenous people in Canada is unique. But there are two general categories into which modern treaty governments can be placed:

• Modern treaty without self-government: This type of treaty describes the boundaries of the settlement area, establishes certain rights to the land, and creates organizations to undertake land use planning, renewable resource management, economic development and treaty membership and governance. An example of a modern treaty without self-government is the Gwich’in Land Claim Agreement. Note: The Gwich’in are currently negotiating a self-government agreement.
• Modern treaty with self-government: In addition to the elements of a modern treaty without self-government, a modern treaty with self-government includes important additional provisions. Treaties that include self-government provisions empower the Indigenous signatory to take over certain programs and services formerly delivered by federal, provincial and territorial governments, such as:
  • Policing
  • Health
  • Social services
  • Economic development
  • Education

Examples of modern treaties with self-government are the Nisg̱a’a Final Agreement in British Columbia, the Tłı̨chǫ Agreement in Northwest Territories, and the Nunatsiavut Agreement in Labrador. All modern treaties since 2000 include self-government.

Note: Some modern treaties with self-government, such as Délı̨nę in Northwest Territories and the Nunavut Agreement, serve both Indigenous and non-Indigenous citizens through public government.