Overview

As Aboriginal and treaty rights are recognized and affirmed both through the courts and as the outcome of reconciliation activities with the Crown, Aboriginal peoples are implementing self-government as an exercise of self-determination. Establishing strong and appropriate institutions of good governance is essential if Indigenous nations and political organizations are to achieve successful nationhood. Research has shown that implementing Aboriginal jurisdiction without establishing effective, culturally legitimate institutions results in unhealthy communities that remain in poverty.  Nations that establish effective, culturally appropriate institutions are economically more successful and do better.  They are in a much stronger position to take action to improve the lives of their peoples including the ability to revitalize their culture and language. They are less dependent on government transfer payments and became politically and economically more powerful.  Participants will be shown tools to build their own Indigenous institutions of good governance.

What does the program offer?

• The nature and importance of institutions
• Institution building for good governance in Aboriginal communities
• Types of Aboriginal institutions in Canada and their sources of authority
• Establishing capable Aboriginal institutions that reflect cultural values and legitimacy
• Understanding how to run institutions of government
• Processes for developing and adopting a nation’s constitution
• Processes for developing laws, regulations, policies and community plans
• Ensuring community support for governance reform and institution building
• Structures and processes for implementing and operationalizing institutions
• Creating a professional, independent, and culturally appropriate public service
• Institutions for the enforcement of a nation’s laws

Who should apply?

• Aboriginal leaders, administrators, senior management, negotiators and planners
• Indian, Inuit, and Métis regional or tribal managers and executive directors
• Consultants and legal counsel who work closely with Aboriginal nations and organizations
• Provincial and federal policy analysts and negotiators
• Industry or government officials interested in Aboriginal issues of self-government