Annex B: Status of Action Plan measures
Shared Priorities

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Shared Priority 1

Processes and guidance on consistency of laws

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

JUS developed the Interim Guide for Officials on How to Assess Consistency with the UN Declaration, with input from Indigenous partners still being received in the 2025-26 fiscal year. Over the last year, a Shared Priority 1 working group between JUS, TBS and the PCO continued internal discussions about how Canada will coordinate itself to work collaboratively on implementation. In response to requests by Indigenous partners, some tools are being developed to explain key concepts to support consultation and cooperation, including backgrounders explaining certain government processes.

In addition, a guidance document titled “Implementing Consultation and Cooperation with Inuit” was co-developed by the Legislative Priorities Working Group of the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee, which included representatives from Justice, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami. This document was finalized in Fall 2025 and conditionally approved at the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee Leaders Meeting on November 24, 2025. It responds to Inuit partners' interest in developing consistent guidance on what is meant by the term "consultation and cooperation" and contributes to the implementation of this Action Plan measure.

Transport Canada (TC) also noted that the department put in place mandatory internal assessments and guidance processes to ensure that all new or amended legislation and regulations align with the UN Declaration Act. In 2025-26, 18 UN Declaration Act assessments on regulatory and legislative initiatives were completed.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

JUS met with some Indigenous partners on the Interim Guide for Officials on How to Assess Consistency with the UN Declaration. In addition, JUS, TBS, and PCO participated in preliminary discussions with some Indigenous partners. These meetings were an opportunity to understand partners' interest in participating in future consultation and cooperation meetings, to provide background information that would contribute to an understanding of current processes and concepts, and to inform plans for the broader process, including any relevant parameters around what tools or processes might be explored. Meetings with Inuit Tapiirit Kanatami in the co-development of the “Implementing Consultation and Cooperation with Inuit” guidance also provided useful insights for future products that could be developed. Following these preliminary discussions with Indigenous partners, a broader consultation and cooperation process is anticipated with those who have identified this Action Plan measure as a priority. This process will include partners who have received funding through the Indigenous Partnership Fund. Additional distinctions-based outreach and further broadening of consultation and cooperation will follow as more substantive discussions take place.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

While some partners welcome the development of the interim Guide for Officials to help advance section 5 of the UN Declaration Act, others believe the guide could go further to recognize Indigenous laws and jurisdiction and support structural change. Partners from British Columbia noted that they met with JUS regularly through a technical working group to discuss the interim guide for officials as well as the UNDA Action Plan and Annual Reports. A workplan developed in the Fall of 2024 was revised in early 2026 that outlines an ambitious agenda for progress on this Action Plan measure to develop a process, tools and policy on legislative alignment based on lessons learned from implementation of the British Columbia’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.

Many partners believe more concrete work is needed to review and amend federal laws to ensure consistency with the UN Declaration, including in the areas of policing, human rights, impact assessment, and health. Additionally, some advocate for a distinct mechanism, such as a joint Indigenous-federal entity or distinctions-based law reform bodies that would review legislation and develop legislative changes to align with the UN Declaration. One First Nation partner in Manitoba put forward a proposal for a Manitoba First Nations UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Law Reform Commission. Other partners point to the Northwest Territories UN Declaration Implementation Act's "Statement of Consistency" and recommend a similar approach be taken for federal laws and regulations to ensure consistency with the UN Declaration as well as with Treaties. To strengthen implementation of this measure, some partners suggest more specific commitments, including publishing a statute review schedule and identifying priority statutes for amendment. Some Métis governments also called for direct distinctions-based engagement regarding section 5 implementation priorities and recommended that Canada co-develop a transparent schedule for reviewing federal laws for consistency with the UN Declaration.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: PCO, TBS, TC

Shared Priority 2

Consistency of laws – review/amendment of specific statutes

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

JUS noted that for the 2025-26 fiscal year, the department undertook preliminary planning work on bullet number 2 (an interpretive provision). This included an analysis of interpretive provisions that provide for the use of the UN Declaration in the interpretation of federal enactments. Justice is still in the process of planning and determining next steps on this action plan measure.

Transport Canada (TC) also noted that the department put in place mandatory internal assessments and guidance processes to ensure that all new or amended legislation and regulations align with the UN Declaration Act. In 2025-26, 18 UN Declaration Act assessments on regulatory and legislative initiatives were completed.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

The department noted that no consultation and cooperation took place during the reporting period.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Indigenous partners have pointed to numerous pieces of legislation that would require review as well as specific amendments to ensure consistency with the UN Declaration. For example, many First Nation partners in the Prairies have raised the need to review the three Natural Resources Transfer Acts and related Agreements, while recognizing that these are constitutional documents so each of the provincial governments would have to agree to come to the discussion tables. One partner also pointed to the need to prioritize review of the Indian Lands Registration Manual and other on-reserve federal regulations and policies through the lens of the UN Declaration. Additionally, partners have also pointed to prioritizing reform of the Species at Risk Act, and one partner mentioned that a non-derogation clause or interpretive provision specifically referencing the Declaration should be added to the Interpretation Act. Another partner pointed to the need to amend the Building Canada Act to clearly state when a requirement to consult or to engage in a process of consultation with Indigenous peoples reflects the Crown's Duty to Consult. More generally, some Métis governments also expressed concern that Canada has not clearly communicated what statutes are being prioritized for review or how Indigenous peoples will participate in determining legislative reform priorities. Similarly, one First Nation partner recommended that Canada prioritize a comprehensive review of legislation affecting lands, resources, environmental assessment, fisheries, agriculture, infrastructure, and economic development. These reviews should be jointly prioritized with First Nations and include transparent reporting on outcomes, timelines and implementation commitments to demonstrate progress. Moreover, this partner stressed that legislative review alone is insufficient. Implementation must be grounded in the recognition and affirmation of treaty rights, inherent First Nations jurisdiction, and the principle of free, prior and informed consent.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC

Shared Priority 3

Consistency of laws – periodic statutory reviews

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

As a regulatory department, Transport Canada (TC) ensures that new and amended legislation and regulations align with the UN Declaration Act, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples. TC has adopted a robust process to assess all regulatory and legislative proposals to identify potential intersections and ensure alignment with the Declaration. This lens is similarly applied to any periodic reviews and any resulting amendments. The department has also made significant efforts to ensure that all employees at all levels are aware of and understand their obligations under the UN Declaration Act. In 2025-26, TC has completed 18 assessments on new or amended regulatory or legislative initiatives.

The President of the Treasury Board, as designated minister, is responsible for overseeing the administration of the Access to Information Act across the Government of Canada, including leading a mandatory review of the Act every five years pursuant to section 93(1). The current review launched on June 20, 2025.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Implementation of TC's internal Section 5 review assessment tool and review process is based upon the current interim guidance from Justice Canada and did not involve external engagement with Indigenous Partners. The department will continue to update the assessment tool as the revised interim guidance is released following input from Indigenous Partners.

The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBS) is engaging with Indigenous partners on the review of the Access to Information Act throughout the current and next fiscal year. This engagement is being conducted in a manner consistent with section 5 of the UNDA and aligns with Shared Priority measure 3. To support participation, TBS is establishing contribution agreements with Indigenous partners who applied for financial support by the deadline.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted that they prepared a funding proposal to support their full participation in the periodic review of the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families; however, they noted there was no communication beyond the pre-engagement phase of the review process. In their view, meaningful engagement in the legislative review would benefit all communities and would lead to successful implementation.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC, TBS

Shared Priority 4

Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In June 2024, the Government of Canada launched Changing Systems, Transforming Lives: Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy 2024–2028, renewing federal action on systemic racism and initiating foundational work to co-develop a dedicated anti-Indigenous racism approach under the UN Declaration Act Action Plan. ESDC’s Anti-Racism Secretariat is using guidance from Indigenous partners to support early planning, strengthen collaborative engagement, and uphold co-development principles in shaping this proposed approach.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

ESDC’s engagement efforts have included connecting to and building on the many aspects of collaborative work that are happening across federal departments to support anti-Indigenous racism objectives. Rather that duplicating efforts and contributing to engagement fatigue, ESDC will continue to learn from strategies to address anti-Indigenous racism brought forward through engagement linked to implementing the Calls for Justice stemming from the Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA Indigenous peoples, combatting anti-Indigenous racism in health care and justice systems, and addressing system gaps in labour market equity caused by anti-Indigenous racism.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 5

Community initiatives to combat anti-Indigenous racism

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Through the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program, PCH continues to support Indigenous, Black, racialized, and religious minority populations who experience disproportionate barriers to equality, by delivering Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy 2024-2028 and Canada's Action Plan on Combatting Hate. Within 2025-26, the Program supported a total of 79 projects, representing investments of more than $10.5 million for anti-racism projects. Furthermore, the Program provided $5.5 million to support 31 anti-hate initiatives between 2024-25 and 2025-26. The department also renewed its Memorandum of Understanding with Statistics Canada to improve data disaggregation and produce statistical products that support the Strategy’s goals. Program funding allocated under Canada's Action Plan on Combatting Hate will continue through 2028-29, at which point the Action Plan is set to sunset.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

The department noted that consultation and cooperation is not applicable for this Action Plan measure. The delivery of the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program supports several groups, including Indigenous, Black, and other racialized and religious minority communities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 6

Indigenous health legislation and Joyce’s Principle

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISC noted that the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada's Health Systems initiative supports efforts to address anti-Indigenous racism through Indigenous-led and community-informed projects that advance cultural and patient safety, improve access to culturally appropriate services, and strengthen Indigenous representation across all levels of the health care system, driven by Joyce's Principle. In 2025-26, National Indigenous health organizations continued to be supported such as the First Nations Health Managers Association, which is developing a training program for Indigenous health system navigators. The initiative also provided funding to support the activities of a Joyce's Principle Office coordinated by the Manawan community, and the First Nations Health Ombudsperson Office, supporting accountability and redress for discrimination in health services in Saskatchewan.

While ISC received new authorities in 2024 to work on separate approaches with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners to co-develop policy and/or legislative options, this work remained on hold throughout 2025-26.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

In 2025-26, ISC engaged with Indigenous partners through the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism Advisory Circle, with national Indigenous women’s organizations and additional ad hoc partner meetings as required and will continue into 2026-27. However, these meetings are intended for information sharing purposes such as providing updates on program decisions and activities or learning about partner projects that are underway. These engagements are not intended to respond to Section 35 rights, or the principles of free, prior and informed consent. The department also engaged with Indigenous partners through the Indigenous Women’s Wellbeing Advisory Committee, that provides policy and program advice on issues impacting the health and wellness of First Nations, Inuit and Métis women and 2SLGBTQI+ people across the lifespan.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Many partners have noted that it has been difficult to secure meetings with federal departments, making it difficult to advance meaningful partnerships. One partner noted that there has been no further meetings in 2025-26 with a high‑level Intergovernmental Policy Forum intended to provide a dialogue between federal leadership and self‑governing treaty partners. A forum was scheduled for early 2026 but was postponed, creating continued uncertainty about when leaders will next be able to collectively raise urgent issues. Consistent with what we heard for First Nations Priority 12 and 13, partners also stated that the lack of funding to support health transformation work and advance partners' health-related mandates are also of concern. Affected self‑governing communities still have not received any federal response to a previously submitted, evidence‑based funding proposal aimed at addressing the toxic drug crisis. The absence of both a confirmed intergovernmental forum and timely feedback on the proposed funding model is hindering efforts to design and implement health interventions tailored to local community needs across these communities. Partners also noted that health transformation requires involvement from Indigenous women and the organizations they choose to represent them. Indigenous women in Canada continue to experience disproportionate health outcomes and Indigenous women's organizations continue to fill critical gaps in public health service delivery, particularly in mental wellness and addictions. They call for a distinctions-based PLUS approach to ensure Indigenous women's organizations are able to inform policy and receive funding to continue to fill gaps in mainstream service delivery.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 7

Addressing anti-Indigenous racism in health systems

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada’s Health Systems initiative advances Indigenous-led and community-informed projects to address anti-Indigenous racism, enhance cultural and patient safety, and strengthen Indigenous representation across the health system in line with Joyce’s Principle. In 2025–26, the initaitive continued to support Health System Navigator and Patient Advocate positions across the country, which help improve access to culturally safe care and increase patient safety and accountability. The initiative also continued funding the First Nations Health Ombudsperson Office in Saskatchewan to support accountability and redress for discrimination in health services. Additionally, Two-Spirited People of Manitoba Inc. delivered information sessions in northern Manitoba on informed consent and health care rights for 2SLGBTQI+ people. First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and organizations also continue to be supported in their ongoing work to enhance access to culturally safe services through the restoration of Indigenous midwifery. A number of iniatives are underway, including new pathways for Indigenous midwifery education.

Additionally, the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism Advisory Circle provides an opportunity for members to share best practices on efforts to address Indigenous-specific racism at the national systems level and increase collaboration among intergovernmental partners. For example, members include Indigenous partners, National Indigenous Organizations, national Indigenous and non-Indigenous health organizations, such as the Indigenous Physicians Association and the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing, as well as Health Canada’s anti-racism division and ISC intradepartmental colleagues. To inform the longer-term approach, the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism initiative identifies systemic gaps in health services impacting Indigenous partners and develops strategic policy initiatives aligned with departmental and program priorities to address emerging needs and advance health equity.

In parallel, the Indigenous Health Equity Fund supports First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and organizations to improve access to quality, culturally safe health services, with implementation underway across all regions. ISC is working with Indigenous communities to strengthen program administration, including updating community plans, refining reporting and outcome measures, and determining effective approaches for tracking and communicating progress.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, ISC engaged with Indigenous partners on a consistent basis through the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism Advisory Circle, national Indigenous womens organizations, and additional ad hoc partner meetings as required. However, these meetings are intended for information sharing purposes such as providing updates on program decisions and activities, and/or learning about partner projects that are underway. These engagements are not intended to respond to Section 35 rights, or the principles of free, prior and informed consent. The department also engaged with Indigenous partners through the Indigenous Women’s Wellbeing Advisory Committee, that provides policy and program advice on issues impacting the health and wellness of First Nations, Inuit and Métis women and 2SLGBTQI+ people across the lifespan.

Consultation and cooperation activities in relation to the Indigenous Health Equity Fund varied by region based on partner capacity, existing governance structures, and regional engagement mechanisms. In some regions, engagement was effectively supported through established forums such as Health Directors’ meetings, while in others, consultations required more individualized, community-level engagement.

ISC will continue to engage with Indigenous partners in 2026-27, and will continue holding Advisory Circle and Indigenous Women’s Wellbeing Advisory Committee meetings where Indigenous partners, National Indigenous Organizations, Indigenous heath professional organizations and Health Canada’s anti-racism division can attend and participate. Provincial and Territorial representatives are also invited to attend the Advisory Circle.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted that Article 18 of the UN Declaration affirms the right of Indigenous Peoples to participate in decision-making through representatives they have chosen, in accordance with their own procedures. When implementation mechanisms do not recognize or include those chosen representatives, significant segments of Indigenous rights holders may be excluded from decision-making processes.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 8

FPTI collaboration for culturally safe health services

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada's Health Systems initiative supported various Health System Navigator positions across the country, with organizations, communities, and governments such as Kwanlin Dun First Nation, Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Nunavik Regional Board of Health and Social Services, Otipemisiwak Metis Government, Manitoba Metis Federation, and the National Association of Friendship Centres. These positions help patients navigate provincial and territorial health systems, and improve access to culturally safe care.

The Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada's Health Systems initiative also supported Indigenous partners across the country to streamline service delivery and cohesion within Provincial and Territorial health systems. In 2025-26 the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs, in collaboration with ISC, created Provincial Indigenous Healthcare Resource Roadmaps for each Atlantic province to help Indigenous peoples navigate complex healthcare systems across multiple jurisdictions and health authorities. The resources were created to strengthen meaningful engagement, improve access to culturally safe care, support better coordination Indigenous health care providers, and better health outcomes for Indigenous patients in Atlantic Canada. ISC Saskatchewan Region office established the Saskatchewan Anti-Indigenous Racism Navigator Network, that supports Health System Navigators from First Nations organizations to improve collaboration, knowledge sharing, networking, and resource exchange across the Province. The Métis Health Experience Program, led by the Métis Nation British Columbia, has established partnerships with regional health authorities and the College of Physicians and Surgeons to improves access and navigation of the health system for clients.

ISC also noted that the Indigenous Health Equity Fund supported several projects that may help increase seamless service delivery across jurisdictions, including the Health Standards Organization's development of a National Standard for Cultural Safety and Humility. Several First Nation, Inuit, and Métis communities have also leveraged their funding to build relationships with their provincial or territorial government. For example, Eskasoni First Nation planning to partner with the Government of Nova Scotia to expand the Health Centre to improve access to mental wellness services, including a mental health nurse, substance use wraparound supports, harm reduction and crisis response. Samson Cree Nation is planning to engage with Alberta's Primary Health Networks to establish collaborative partnerships and explore cost-sharing opportunities aimed at improving access to comprehensive health services for Samson Cree Nation members, including access to specialized health services such as chronic disease management, mental health supports, and preventive care.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, ISC engaged with Indigenous partners on a consistent basis through the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism Advisory Circle, national Indigenous womens organizations, and additional ad hoc partner meetings as required. However, these meetings are intended for information sharing purposes such as providing updates on program decisions and activities, and/or learning about partner projects that are underway. These engagements are not intended to respond to Section 35 rights, or the principles of free, prior and informed consent.

Consultation and cooperation activities varied by region based on partner capacity, existing governance structures, and regional engagement mechanisms. In some regions, engagement was effectively supported through established forums such as Health Directors’ meetings, while in others, consultations required more individualized, community-level engagement.

ISC will continue to engage with Indigenous partners in 2026-27, and will continue holding Advisory Circle meetings where Indigenous partners, National Indigenous Organizations, and Health Canada’s anti-racism division can attend and participate. Provincial and Territorial representatives are also invited to attend the Advisory Circle.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner noted that, in 2025-26, attempts to secure meetings with lead departments were left unanswered for several months making it difficult to advance meaningful partnerships. Lack of funding to support health transformation work and advance partners' health-related mandates are also of concern.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 9

Ending systemic violence against Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse people

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

CIRNAC leads and coordinates annual federal reporting on progress of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People. The department continued to facilitate ongoing engagement with Indigenous partners, provinces, and territories through the Indigenous-Federal-Provincial-Territorial Meeting on MMIWG and 2SLGBTQI+ People. The 2026 meeting focussed on the issue of human trafficking, the Red Dress Alert and Major projects. CIRNAC met routinely with the National Family and Survivors Circle Inc. and other Indigenous partners to engage them in the design, development and implementation of policies and programsand delivered funding through the Indigenous-led Data Research Projects Program and the Support for the Wellbeing of Families and Survivors. CIRNAC, under the leadership and guidance of Giganawenimaanaaning, collaborated with the government of Manitoba on the Red Dress Alert Pilot to develop a regionally based alert system, and enhance the safety and well-being of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. The fifth annual report, to be published in June 2026, will illustrate federal progress made in 2025-26 that contributes towards the ultimate goal of reducing violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Indigenous Services Canada’s (ISC) Family Violence Prevention Program funds the operations of emergency shelters and transitional housing to improve safety for Indigenous women, children, families and 2SLGBTQI+ people across Canada, including northern and urban areas. It also supports over 400 community-driven violence prevention projects. The program worked with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Indigenous partners on the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative, under which 80 projects (38 shelters and 42 transitional homes) had been selected. The program will fund operations of these facilities and advance Indigenous partners’ priorities.

The Public Health Agency of Canada’s (PHAC) Preventing Family Violence Program funds projects that prevent youth dating violence and child maltreatment. It also funds externally hosted communities of practice, led by external organizations, to strengthen learning and coordination within each project stream. The Preventing Family Violence Program invests over $14 million annually to support evidence-informed, community-based approaches to preventing family violence in Canada.

In 2025-26, Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) provided funding to 79 organizations through funding received in 2021. This funding increases the capacity of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations to provide gender-based violence prevention programming aimed at addressing the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CIRNAC continued to fund organizations and work with the National Families and Survivors Circle Inc. for the fourth annual National Indigenous-Federal-Provincial-Territorial meeting on MMIWG2S+. Some Indigenous partners have expressed concerns that despite efforts, the pace of implementing the Pathway and the Calls for Justice is too slow. In addition, engagement fatigue has been experienced by Indigenous partners working across all levels of government, affecting the overall efficacy and sustainability of consultations.

The Family Violence Prevention Program collaborates regularly with Indigenous shelter, women's, and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations and staff on the delivery of family violence services. The program also supports CIRNAC’s implementation of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People. While the Family Violence Prevention Program does not engage in formal consultation activities with Indigenous partners, informal discussions have noted that limited partner capacity can be a barrier to participation in consultation and cooperation activities.

PHAC, on an ongoing basis, collaborated with Indigenous-led youth dating violence and child maltreatment projects on project and financial monitoring and supported recipients in navigating PHAC processes and reporting requirements. These activities will be expanded upon in 2026-27. PHAC noted that it has aimed to reduce administrative burdens that support meaningful participation with Indigenous partners. The agency noted that contribution agreements have mechanisms that provide greater flexibility and control over financial management, helping Indigenous partners focus on program delivery rather than administrative requirements.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted ongoing work with CIRNAC on the implementation of the Federal Pathway, as well as processes to report on progress. These organizations were also engaged in conversation on the Red Dress Alert and human trafficking, but felt excluded on some critical issues and plans for the upcoming year. Partners also continue to call for core funding to Indigenous women’s organizations delivering culturally-grounded, community-based programming that prevents gender-based violence and promotes healing. They note that Indigenous women must inform all policies, plans and strategies that impact, or have the potential to impact, their lives.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: ISC, PHAC, WAGE

Shared Priority 10

MMIWG and the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, 79 organizations continued to receive funding for to increase the capacity of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations to provide gender-based violence prevention programming aimed at addressing the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. This fiscal year also marked the third year for the implementation of The National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence at the provincial and territorial levels. However, Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) noted that additional funding is needed to support the remaining six years of the Action Plan.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

WAGE indicated that no consultation and cooperation took place in 2025-26 with external Indigenous partners. The department noted that any engagement would be conducted through WAGE's Indigenous Women's Circle.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted that, while not in a decision-making capacity, they had participated in previous discussions and were hopeful that the advancement of this Action Plan measure would result in further outreach.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: WAGE

Shared Priority 11

Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) continued to advance Priority Area 3 of the 2022–2027 Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan. This included the promotion and understanding of the “2SLGBTQI+” acronym across the federal government, hiring a Senior Advisor on Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ considerations, and supporting capacity-building projects via grants and contributions, while expanding engagement with Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ community organizations, National Indigenous leaders, and the Indigenous Women’s Circle to inform policy and program advice. Budget 2022 provided $100 million to implement the Action Plan, including $75 million for the 2SLGBTQI+ Community Capacity Fund and Projects Fund. In 2025–26, WAGE funded five projects addressing discriminatory policies, harmful norms, and supports for Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities, and one project focused on building the capacity of Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ organizations and those primarily serving these communities. The department also advanced Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ equality through the Increasing Capacity of Indigenous Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Organizations to Address GBV initiative, supporting 21 projects aimed at preventing and addressing gender-based violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

As noted above, WAGE engaged Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ community organizations, National Indigenous leaders and representatives, and the Indigenous Women’s Circle on Priority Area 3 of the federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, focusing on community priorities, implementation progress, and collaboration opportunities, with feedback informing policy and program advice across the department and other federal initiatives. On January 28th, 2026, the department hosted a full-day virtual engagement with Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ organizations across Canada to deepen federal understanding of community-identified priorities, challenges, needs, and best practices. WAGE plans to continue this engagement on WAGE-led policies and programming that affect Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ peoples.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: WAGE

Shared Priority 12

Safe and secure resource development for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ persons

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

NRCan is leading federal efforts to advance Calls for Justice 13.1 to 13.5 and implement this Action Plan measure, in partnership with many departments and agencies such as Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC), Public Safety Canada (PS), Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC), and the Major Projects Office (MPO). In 2025-26, NRCan worked with CIRNAC to establish a senior management federal interdepartmental committee to steer this work and established an MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Regulatory Working Group to coordinate federal efforts and share wise practices during the review of regulatory frameworks. NRCan continued to engage with Indigenous partners and federal counterparts, including through joint engagements with the Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking, to conduct research and to strengthen strategic partnerships to develop practical tools and supports to advance safe and equitable resource development for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. While NRCan has not received dedicated funding for this initiative and long-term funding for community-led safety initiatives remains limited, the department is collaborating with other federal departments to maximize federal policy, funding, and partnerships to advance safe and equitable resource development for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, NRCan continued to engage with Indigenous partners across all distinctions, including grassroots advocates, matriarchs, Elders, families, and survivors, to gather recommendations and promising practices to inform its work. As Canada accelerates major resource and infrastructure projects, Indigenous communities have raised increasing concerns about heightened risks to Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, particularly along major project and human trafficking corridors. These risks include increased exposure to gender-based violence, trafficking, and service gaps, and reflect long-standing patterns associated with large-scale resource development. Indigenous partners clearly stated that there cannot be a repetition of past harms associated with major projects and that sustained investments are needed in locally-driven solutions, including community safety programs, healing supports, culturally grounded youth programming, family supports, housing and transportation.

Transport Canada (TC) also noted that at the 2025 Federal-Provincial-Territorial Ministers of Transportation meeting with National Indigenous Organizations, the Minister of Transport committed to creating a joint working group with these organizations to explore and advance transportation-related responses to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Calls for Justice. As a first step, TC identified internal senior representatives for the working group and begun engaging with National Indigenous Organizations.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One Indigenous 2SLGBTQAI+ organization emphasized the critical need to be actively engaged in the co-development of strategies aimed at enhancing safety, well-being, and inclusion for Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other gender-diverse Indigenous peoples. Active collaboration with these organizations is essential to create sustainable, rights-based approaches that prioritize safety of Two-Spirit identities.

Another Indigenous partner noted that an intersectional and gender-responsive approach cannot be realized if the structures of implementation exclude organizations Indigenous peoples experiencing discrimination in urban and off-reserve contexts. Without inclusive participation, commitments to Gender-Based Analysis Plus and social determinants frameworks risk remaining procedural rather than transformative.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC

Shared Priority 13

Ending coerced sterilization

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

JUS noted that on June 5, 2025, Senator Boyer re-introduced the substance of former Bill S-250 through Bill S-228, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (sterilization procedures). The Bill would clarify that a sterilization procedure constitutes a “wounding” or a “maiming” for the purposes of the aggravated assault offence provision in Criminal Code. Bill S-228 carried following Third Reading in the Senate and is currently being studied by the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs in the House. Departmental officials continue to support the Minister's Office on Bill S-228.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

The department noted that no broad consultation and cooperation took place during the last fiscal year, however, engagement with Survivors’ Circle for Reproductive Justice on Bill S-228 occurred in 2025 through an in-person presentation and in 2026 through webinars. In addition, JUS officials consulted and cooperated with Indigenous partners, including Survivors’ Circle for Reproductive Justice and the Indigenous Women’s Advisory Council, on former because Bill S-250, an identical Bill that died on the Order Paper in January 2025. For additional information on this process, please refer to the 2025 Annual Report.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

2 Spirits in Motion Society has advanced Shared Priority 13 through community-led initiatives that promote awareness, prevention, and healing related to forced and coerced sterilization. By centering Indigenous self-determination, survivor voices, and cultural knowledge, the organization supports strategy development, advisory engagement, public education, and ceremonial practices that honour survivors. Collaborating with Indigenous-led partners and federal bodies, the 2 Spirits in Motion Society contributed community-informed perspectives to guide policy, governance, and reproductive justice efforts. These initiatives have strengthened trust, created safer spaces for education and healing, and advanced culturally safe, survivor-centred approaches. Continued Indigenous leadership and engagement aim to ensure reproductive healthcare is safe, informed, dignified, and accountable, fostering long-term prevention and community well-being.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 14

Federal public service training on the UN Declaration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Following outreach to Indigenous partners in 2024-25, JUS developed a What We Heard Report, which was then validated by Indigenous partners. This report summarizes what was heard in the initial phase of consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners and organizations. The department sought and received input and feedback on existing training materials on the UN Declaration and the UN Declaration Act that will ensure inclusion of diverse Indigenous perspectives moving forward. The purpose of the report is to inform JUS, the Canada School of Public Service (CSPS) and other government departments about how to improve existing training, to identify priorities and opportunities for co-creation of training on various Indigenous topics, and to share, in a transparent way, what was heard through the process.

The CSPS Indigenous Learning business line supports Canada's commitment to reconciliation and to implementation of the UN Declaration, the UN Declaration Act, and the associated Action Plan. Throughout 2025-26, the UN Declaration Learning Portal continued to be refreshed and expanded as new materials became available. Two additional learning videos—one on the UN Declaration and one on the UN Declaration Act—are in development and are scheduled for release on the portal in 2026. CSPS also delivered 11 learning events that reached more than 10,000 public servants.

Numerous federal departments and agencies have developed Indigenous learning pathways to support employees to advance their understanding of Indigenous issues, enhance their personal and professional competencies, and support reconciliation. For example, Indigenous Awareness Week within Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) consisted of 24 events and reached over 1,500 participants across 30 federal departments. In addition, the Public Health Network Unlearning Club consisted of a 19-month structured learning journey grounded in an Indigenous-developed curriculum to strengthen federal, provincial and territorial public health leaders’ capacity to identify racism and take Indigenous-specific anti-racist action in public health policy and decision-making. Aligned with the agency’s Indigenous learning policy, PHAC also compiled and promoted 145 Indigenous learning opportunities, including 41 PHAC hosted sessions to over 3,000 participants across 35 departments. PHAC also facilitates ethical access to Elders and Knowledge keepers for its programs through an Elder-in-Residence program and through an Indigenous cultural support program.

In addition, Indigous Services Canada (ISC) updated its UN Declaration Act Training Strategy, which aims at ensuring that ISC employees possess an increased awareness of the rights contained in the UN Declaration, the obligations and transformational nature of the UN Declaration Act, and the commitments under the Action Plan. The strategy is being implemented by raising general awareness, as well as sharing information and best practices through the 101 information sessions offered, bi-monthly Network meetings and other one-time events.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

JUS noted that Indigenous partners that were engaged in Phase 1 of the consultation and cooperation period were further engaged to validate the understandings presented in the draft What We Heard Report. As projects develop, consultation and cooperation will take place on an individual project basis due to limited availability of resources.

Throughout 2025-26, the CSPS undertook several key activities to ensure that the Indigenous Learning curriculum is informed by Indigenous perspectives, expertise, and lived experience. This included working closely with Elders and Knowledge Holders to support the cultural integrity of learning content and to ensure it reflects Indigenous values and traditions. Elders and Knowledge Holders contributed to learning design and delivery, participating in events as well as virtual and in-person courses. Specific examples include the co-creation with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami on a video on the Inuit Nunangat Policy, content review by Métis Elders from the Knowledge Circle for Indigenous Inclusion Elders Advisory Circle and External subject matter experts, and co-hosting the 2025 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. Some Indigenous organizations faced limitations in terms of available resources or capacity, which impacted their availability to engage with theCSPS, maintain regular bilateral meetings, or receive feedback on learning products.

ISC noted that although the department was not involved in any consultation and cooperation related to this Action Plan measure in 2025-26, the department took into account comments and recommendations made by Indigenous Peoples through engagement with JUS. In the future, consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples will be required to meet the commitments under Shared Priority 14, and ISC hopes to learn from JUS, the CSPS experience and other government departments, while co-developing training together.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some partners noted they would welcome additional updates when in consultations related to Shared Priority 14 and Shared Priority 18. In particular, there is interest in seeing how partner input is reflected in training materials and in the ongoing development of these initiatives. Continued communication on progress and outcomes would help ensure partners remain informed on how their contributions are clearly integrated into final products. A national strategy was recommended for Indigenous-specific anti-racism education, including sector-specific training requirements and tailored content. Organizations working with Indigenous youth also emphasized that reconciliation is a priority and addressing systemic and institutional racism is critically important. This underscores the need for sustained education and awareness initiatives aimed at public servants, political leaders as well as the broader public. A Métis partner called for the development of training to strengthen understanding of Métis identity and governance, distinctions-based training to strengthen federal understanding of Métis identity, governance, jurisdiction, and self-government relationships. However, urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted that perspectives and recommendations regarding Indigenous identity and the realities of urban, off-reserve, and non-status populations were not clearly reflected in the What We Heard report.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CSPS, CRA, ISC, PHAC

Shared Priority 15

RCMP Intercultural Learning Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The RCMP National Learning Services conducted internal and external consultations, as well as an environmental scan, to inform an Intercultural Learning Strategy Action Plan for improving intercultural learning within the RCMP. With less than a year of funding remaining within the Intercultural Learning Strategy, the National Learning Service has shifted from planning further broad consultations to implementing a targeted action plan using existing feedback, while funding for Addressing Systemic Racism, received in 2021, is set to sunset in 2025–26.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

As noted above, the Intercultural Learning Strategy has less than a year of funding and limited internal capacity, the RCMP National Learning Services is shifting from broad external consultations to implementing a more targeted action plan, using feedback from previous consultations and focused external engagement as needed. Other RCMP areas are now leading external partnerships and community engagement, and the National Learning Services will draw on the results of those activities to inform potential learning solutions.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

To support eliminating systemic bias, racism and over representation in the justice system, one First Nations partner has consistently recommended that RCMP members complete training and ongoing education in anti-racism, trauma-informed policing and cultural competency. The Letters of Expectations between this First Nation and various external agencies, including the RCMP, each require provincial and federal enforcement officers to undergo a 2-day cultural sensitivity session. Significant resources have been allocated to develop curriculum for a workshop to provide cultural sensitivity training for enforcement officers, including the RCMP.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 16

Ensuring inclusive federally regulated workplaces

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Facilitated by $2.4M flowed through Engagement Protocol Agreements, the Labour Program engaged with national Indigenous partners to discuss opportunities to engage Indigenous governments and rights holders through their governance and collaboration mechanisms. Continued dialogue on the Pay Equity Act and Employment Equity Act was paired with outreach on proposed shifts to the Canada Labour Code intended to respond to evolving economic conditions. Employer engagement through established mechanisms such as the Labour Standards Advisory Committee and the Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Committee continued to emphasize the importance of addressing systemic barriers to equitable opportunities for Indigenous peoples in federally regulated workplaces.

The IT Apprenticeship Program for Indigenous Peoples is a whole-of-government initiative designed to increase the representation of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in the Government of Canada’s IT workforce. The program addresses long-standing employment and education gaps by reducing systemic barriers and providing access to meaningful careers in IT. Since its inception in 2020 through March 31, 2026, 211 apprentices have been hired across 39 federal organizations, with 93 graduates to date. In 2025-26, 18 apprentices were hired and 54 successfully graduated from the propram. Close to 1 in 5 of all apprentices hired (19%) worked from or lived in an Indigenous community. In fall 2025, the program also recognized the successful graduation of 80% of participants in the fair chance hiring pilot.

ESDC also leads the whole of government Indigenous policy candidate process that applies a coaching and mentorship approach to evaluating Indigenous policy candidates through a co-developed assessment process. As of 2025-2026, the inventory contains over 2,660 Indigenous candidates.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Engagement through national Indigenous partners’ governance and collaboration mechanisms builds on decades of collaboration to improve labour market outcomes for Indigenous peoples. The recommendations and demonstrated success of Indigenous-led workforce development systems provide concrete best practices to inform how federally regulated employers can address systemic barriers to equity for Indigenous peoples.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 17

Judiciary training options on UN Declaration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

This Action Plan measure was identified as completed.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: N/A
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: N/A

This Action Plan measure was identified as completed.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

This Action Plan measure was identified as completed.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 18

Public education on UN Declaration and Indigenous human rights

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Following outreach to Indigenous partners in 2024-25, JUS developed a What We Heard Report which was then validated by Indigenous partners. The purpose of the report is to inform JUS, the Canada School of Public Service and other government departments on recommended improvements to existing training on the UN Declaration and the UN Declaration Act, to identify priorities and opportunities for co-creation of training on various Indigenous topics, and to provide transparency based on what the department heard through the process. JUS sought and received feedback on existing training materials on the UN Declaration and the UN Declaration Act that will ensure inclusion of diverse Indigenous perspectives moving forward. The department has relied on existing resources to implement this Action Plan measure, however, dedicated funding is needed for consultation and cooperation with diverse Indigenous perspectives and co-creation of training with Indigenous subject matter experts. JUS is working with other government departments to share information and collaborate on Indigenous learning initiatives where possible. In January 2026, JUS established a bilateral relationship with McGill University's School of Continuing Studies for the development of a new specialized course in their Parliamentary Ecosystem Programmes' thematic stream on applied Futures and Foresight, entitled Intersecting Futures and the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The focus of this course is the UN Declaration and its implementation within Canada, with JUS serving in an advisory capacity on course components. The overall intent of this partnership is to strengthen knowledge, capacity, and collaboration among key actors in the implementation of international human rights obligations, with a focus on practical impacts and inclusive dialogue.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Indigenous partners that were engaged in the development of the What We Heard Report were further engaged with to validate the understandings presented. As projects develop, consultation and cooperation will take place on an individual basis due to limited availability of resources.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some partners noted they would have welcomed additional updates when in consultations related to Shared Priority 14 and Shared Priority 18. In particular, there was interest in seeing how partner input was reflected in training materials and in the ongoing development of these initiatives. Continued communication on progress and outcomes would help ensure partners remain informed on how their contributions are clearly integrated into final products. A national strategy was recommended for Indigenous-specific anti-racism education, including sector-specific training requirements and tailored content. Organizations working with Indigenous youth also emphasized that reconciliation is a priority and addressing systemic and institutional racism is critically important. This underscores the need for sustained education and awareness initiatives aimed at public servants, political leaders as well as the broader public. A Métis partner called for the development of training to strengthen understanding of Métis identity and governance.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 19

Indigenous rights monitoring mechanism(s)

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In the last year, JUS continued to engage internally on this Action Plan measure. It is anticipated that a robust, multi-stage process would be required to adequately explore approaches to the implementation of an Indigenous Rights mechanism(s), in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners. This consultation and cooperation process will build on discussions that took place during the development of the Action Plan. JUS also seeks to ensure that any new mechanisms are complementary to, and do not duplicate, existing monitoring, oversight, and dispute resolution processes.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The department’s work over the past year has focused on monitoring related initiatives and mapping existing monitoring and oversight mechanisms to ensure that any Indigenous Rights Mechanism(s) will complement current structures rather than duplicate.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some First Nation partners felt the advancement of this Action Plan measure should be prioritized with specific timelines, given its potential to adjudicate and remedy rights violations. This Action Plan measure has been highlighted by First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners as an area of particular interest. Partners have expressed interest in engaging in discussions with Canada to explore how the proposed mechanisms could be aligned with the distinct priorities and needs of Métis rights-holding communities and citizens.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 20

UNDA Annual Reporting

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

JUS has developed a cyclical process for developing and improving its Annual Report. Following the release of the previous report, the department engaged with Indigenous partners to seek feedback on the overall reporting process, the types of information that they would like to see added, as well as on the report itself. Feedback from this year's cycle led to the adjustment of the input period to ensure Indigenous partners had sufficient time to review and comment on the draft report to ensure their perspectives were reflected. Additionally, JUS also hosted several information sessions to communicate to Indigenous governments, communities, and organizations about the different ways to participate during the process and answer any questions that partners had. Through the Indigenous Partnership Fund, the department provides capacity funding to some Indigenous partners to support their participation in the implementation of the UNDA, including the participating in the development of the annual report.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

JUS noted that legislated timelines continue to cause pressure for all participants during the development of the annual report. The August tabling of the 2025 Annual Report meant there was compressed time to debrief with partners and adapt the process based upon the feedback received. There is risk of engagement fatigue on the annual report and consideration will have to be given to how this can be mitigated within the confines of the legislated timeline. The department worked with several Indigenous partners during the drafting of this year’s annual report. Following its tabling, JUS will debrief with partners and seek ways to improve the report. Furthermore, the department will work with Indigenous partners to develop metrics and guidance for Action Plan measure leads to develop metrics to support UN Declaration Act implementation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Several partners recommended more frequent progress highlights to give Indigenous peoples a clearer picture of which Action Plan measures have advanced. They also called for more accessible reports, such as through videos, as well as more truthtelling. They further noted that the annual report would benefit from going beyond a simple description of activities undertaken. They indicated that it could also serve as a tool to establish objectives, indicators, and concrete actions, as well as government commitments for the following year, in order to strengthen the relevance and value of accountability reporting. Other recommendations include publishing report addendums created by Indigenous partners; establishing an Indigenous-led body, or other independent review process, that would assess implementation; taking a distinctions-based and treaty-specific approach to reporting; and following the thematic focus of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action. For many First Nation partners, indicators of tangible outcomes would include recognition of First Nations jurisdiction, support for First Nations laws and legal orders, operational approaches to free, prior and informed consent, and the strengthening of treaty relationships.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 21

Updating UNDA Action Plan

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

JUS noted that planning has begun to scope Action Plan renewal options. Preliminary discussions have taken place with a few Indigenous partners. The department also included a question on Action Plan renewal into the Annual Report template for 2025-26. The feedback received will inform the process going forward.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

As Action Plan renewal is still in the early stages, JUS noted that focused consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners is expected to take place in 2026-27.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Indigenous partners made numerous recommendations for an updated Action Plan. These include determining what to do with measures that have not started or are on hold, adding new measures that address gaps such as protecting in-land fisheries, and measures related to safety of women and youth in specific areas such as food insecurity and housing precarity. Partners also recommended leading with Indigenous priorities and implementation standards, rather than predefining scope and structure. They noted this could include incorporating action plans developed by Indigenous partners. In addition, some partners recommended that the next iteration of the Action Plan should prioritize measures that are realistic, measurable, and supported by clear timelines in order to facilitate more effective implementation and monitoring of progress. Also, the next plan should adopt a Nation-to Nation, Distinctions-based PLUS approach, and include governance-based benchmarks to strengthen accountability and coherence. In this context, Distinctions-based PLUS refers to Indigenous peoples that are excluded from the First Nation, Métis, and Inuit governance structures, particularly Indigenous women and Indigenous peoples living outside of their home community.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 22

UNDA Action Plan Advisory Committee (APAC)

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The United Nations Declaration Act Action Plan Advisory Committee met 7 times in 2025-26. It met several times in spring and summer 2025 to develop and finalize its Terms of Reference. The committee received its first request for advice from the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada in October 2025 APAC’s advice is anticipated in the early part of the 2026-27 fiscal year.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025–26, JUS engaged Indigenous partners to provide input on the topics for which the Committee advised the Minister. Future opportunities to consult or cooperate on the APAC’s mandate, membership and work may arise periodically over the coming year.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Partners have welcomed the establishment of the UN Declration Act Action Plan Advisory Committee as a key step for advancing UN Declaration Act implementation and strengthening collaboration. They emphasized the need for clear mandates, sufficient resources, and mechanisms to validate decisions with Indigenous peoples, while ensuring Advisory Committee complements rather than replaces broader consultation processes.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 23

Withdrawal of Comprehensive Land Claims and Inherent Right Policies

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Internal analysis is underway and discussions with some Indigenous partners have taken place to explore the development of a public statement on Canada's rights-based approach for the negotiation of treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The department noted that no funding is currently available for consultation and cooperation on this Action Plan measure. While CIRNAC will continue preliminary discussions with some Indigenous partners, additional resources would be required to consult and cooperate more broadly with Indigenous partners in fiscal year 2026-27.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One First Nation partner has requested more clarity on the status of this Action Plan measure, citing that the policy has yet to be officially withdrawn at the time of reporting. Some partners expressed concern that federal policies such as the Renewing the Comprehensive Land Claims Policy: Towards a Framework for Addressing Section 35 Aboriginal Rights continue to emphasize the concepts of certainty and predictability in ways that may limit the recognition of Indigenous rights that are not expressly set out in treaty agreements. They suggested that this approach may be inconsistent with Article 45 of the Declaration, which provides that nothing in the Declaration may be interpreted as diminishing or extinguishing existing Indigenous rights. These partners recommended that the updated Action Plan include measures to review relevant federal policies, in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, to ensure consistency with the principles and objectives of the UN Declaration.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 24

Co-developing approaches to self-determination

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The department noted that internal analysis continues on the Action Plan measure, including a review of partner interests based on information from negotiation tables, that can support implementation of this Action Plan measure in the short-medium term.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

The department noted that no consultation and cooperation took place due to a lack of resources. CIRNAC officials are considering options on how to best to work with Indigenous peoples for the Action Plan measure.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 25

Implementing historic and modern treaties/self-government

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Transport Canada (TC) noted that the department has a dedicated team that ensures the completion of Assessments of Modern Treaty Implications for all initiatives requiring Cabinet submissions, such as Memoranda to Cabinet, Treasury Board submissions, regulatory proposals and decks for Cabinet decisions. These assessments are meant to help ensure TC's compliance with modern treaty agreements. The department also provided a virtual training and information session to all Indigenous Relations employees.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

TC noted that the Assessment of Modern Treaty Implications is a standardized internal tool across government and did not involve external engagement with Indigenous Partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Many First Nation partners have called on the federal government to advance meaningful discussions regarding historic treaties and uphold pre-1975 treties. They urge the government to create a predictable forum outside of the Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination Discussion Tables process, such as Annual Treaty Councils, for treaty nations and the Crown to review treaty implementation, set priorities, and track progress against shared commitments. They call on clear mandates as well as adequate and stable funding for historic treaty initiatives that reflect needs of treaty partners tables, directorates, gatherings, cabinet directives, and institutions such as Offices of Treaty Commissioners. Diligent implementation of historic treaties would address areas such as cumulative effects, self-government, annuities and Natural Resources Transfer Agreement reform. Partners also oted that the next Action Plan should include specific deliverables to guide the implementation of treaty promises.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC

Shared Priority 26

Implementing standalone self-government agreements

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Throughout the 2025-26 fiscal year, CIRNAC has engaged Self-Government Arrangement Holders primarily through the Intergovernmental Policy Circle collectively with Indigenous Modern Treaty Partners to advance shared priorities. Current funding supports policy and engagement mechanisms under the Modern Treaty Implementation Policy to support education, awareness and collaboration with Indigenous partners.

Additionally, CIRNAC represents the Crown at implementation committees established under self-government agreements. These committees are tripartite when a provincial or territorial government is a signatory to the agreement, and representatives from other federal departments participate in these committee meetings when agenda items relate to their mandates, reflective of the whole of government nature of Mondern Treaty and Self Government agreements. Implementation committees are the prime venue for intergovernmental consultation and co-operation.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Through the engagements noted above, CIRNAC and Self-Government Arrangement Holders work together to identify shared priorities and areas of collective work, with the goal of removing barriers to the implementation of self-government arrangements.

Through regular implementation committee and other meetings with partners – typically, implementation committees meet three times per year with mid-point calls and ongoing communications – discussions include the parties’ view on implementation, the resolution of disagreements, the negotiation of amendments, and other activities necessary to the intergovernmental relationships.

Additionally, CIRNAC and Indigenous Governments continue to engage, through the Collaborative Fiscal Process, in the co-development of funding models for the implementation of self-government jurisdictions.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 27

Indigenous Service Transfer Policy Framework

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The development of a Service Transfer Policy Framework is currently on hold, due to evolving policy context and lack of dedicated funding. In 2025-2026, ISC identified good practices, lessons learned, and the conditions for effective and efficient service transfer based on service transfer initiatives and discussions with ISC programs and sectors. The input and knowledge gathered will support the development of an internal strategy on departmental transfer of responsibilities as stated in the 2026-2027 ISC Departmental Plan. The strategy will provide ISC with greater consistency and coherence to the departmental approach, while addressing barriers to transfer in a manner that responds to the unique needs and priorities of Indigenous partners.

Meaningful work on service transfer continues department-wide through initiatives such as Health Transformation, Infrastructure and Housing transfer, and co-developed Regional Education Agreements. More than half of the ISC-led or co-led Action Plan measures listed in the UN Declaration Act Action Plan are related to service transfer, including Shared Priority 29 regarding the implementation of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, Shared Priority 30 regarding supporting Indigenous Data Sovereignty, and First Nations Priority 15 regarding housing and infrastructure improvements on reserve. To learn more about what ISC is doing to advance service transfer and the UN Declaration Act, see the 2026 ISC Annual Report to Parliament.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Due to a lack of funding and evolving policy context, activity to co-develop a service transfer policy framework is on hold. ISC continues to build a better understanding on service transfer through active internal ISC program engagement and where possible, through informal dialogue with Indigenous partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 28

Indigenous Justice Strategy and revitalization of Indigenous laws

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

As lead, JUS noted that work toward the development of an early Indigenous Justice Strategy implementation plan started in Spring of 2025. To date, implementation has been taking a regional and phased approach, working with Indigenous partners at existing justice-related tables and processes with British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, as well as with Inuit. At these tables, Indigenous partners will identify their short, medium, and long-term priorities, which may include initiatives related to revitalization and enforcement of Indigenous laws and legal orders. Once priorities have been identified, focus will shift to the development of implementation plans. It is yet to be determined how funding will be allocated to support future consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples for this initiative.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In the summer of 2025, JUS began targeted regional discussions with Indigenous partners at existing justice-related tripartite tables regarding interest in participating in implementation discussions. By Fall 2025, the department initiated a targeted call for proposals to Indigenous partners to support their participation at the existing tripartite tables. In early 2026, meetings were being scheduled up to March 31, 2027 for the various tripartite tables and processes to determine regional priorities and implementation plans. JUS will review options to expand participation in future phases and is working to ensure that early efforts pave the way for the next phase of implementation and discussions with additional jurisdictions.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Métis partners noted that the development of the Indigenous Justice Strategy was largely conducted through discussions with the Métis National Council and suggested that additional direct engagement with Métis governments could better ensure that their distinct priorities, rights, and jurisdictional perspectives are reflected. In 2025-26, Métis partners provided Métis-specific recommendations, sought clarity on co-development and distinctions-based implementation, requested specific commitments to legislative reform and engaged with JUS to advance the Strategy’s implementation and secure capacity support. While concerns remain regarding aspects of the strategy’s development and implementation, legislative amendments introduced through Bill C-16 partially address commitments and the legislative priorities of Métis governments.

Some concerns were raised regarding funding allocations that prioritize limited participation for the tripartite table instead of including regional coordination, policy development, governance, and engagement functions, or to implement partner priorities. This includes implementation of Call for Justice 5.1 to implement the recommendations from the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry of Manitoba: Public Inquiry into the Administration of Justice and Aboriginal People. Partners also expressed concern with Canada's unilateral decision to undertake a funding process that makes nations and organizations compete for limited resources. Sustainable funding is required to support the systemic justice reforms envisioned by the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry of Manitoba and the MMIWG2S+ National Inquiry.

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted that the Indigenous Justice Strategy does not explicitly recognize urban Indigenous communities or the role of urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations in combating Indigenous overrepresentation and systemic racism. These organizations also noted that while they were included in initial conversations in developing the Strategy, they have not been included in any work since, including in work related to implementation.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 29

Implementation of Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISC noted steady progress continues in implementing An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, driven by growing interest and supported by ongoing jurisdictional and partnership developments. As of March 31, 2026, 12 coordination agreements and 3 bilateral agreements have been signed, 26 coordination table discussions are under way including 5 renewals. In addition, 284 Indigenous communities or groups have expressed interest in exercising jurisdiction through accessing capacity‑building funding. Reflecting a significant shift toward an inherent‑jurisdiction approach that advances self‑determination, 19 Indigenous laws have the force of federal law in accordance with section 21(1) of the Act. ISC remains committed to working with National Indigenous Organizations, and provincial and territorial partners to identify approaches that best supports the implementation of this Action Plan measure. Resources have been directed toward engagement activities, technical and administrative support, capacity‑building needs identified by Indigenous partners, and coordination agreement discussion tables to ensure Indigenous governing bodies participate in discussions with Canada and the relevant province or territory, to exercise jurisdiction.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The department noted that consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners has been grounded in a distinctions‑based approach that recognizes the inherent rights and governance structures of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. This includes working collaboratively through formal tables, bilateral and trilateral discussions, federal-provincial technical working groups, and engagement activities that support transparency, co‑development, and informed decision‑making. Implementation of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families requires sustained consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners to ensure decisions remain informed, distinctions‑based, and aligned with community‑driven priorities. This work is supported by the Act’s five‑year legislative review. Work has begun in relation to the five-year review with national and regional Indigenous organizations, and Indigenous governing bodies, with a preliminary focus on definitions and provisions of the Act.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One First Nation partner has mentioned that the adoption of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families is a concrete example of legislation that recognizes Indigenous authority over child and family services and should serve as a model for implementing the principles of the Declaration, including through the enactment of additional legislation that recognizes and protects the jurisdictions and powers of Indigenous governments in all appropriate areas.

However, Modern Treaty Partners have noted that this work is not yet complete and Modern Treaty Partner specific agreements have not yet been reached. They have noted that the ongoing absence of clarity as to the equal jurisdiction of Modern Treaty Partners as compared to other First Nations has had adverse impacts on communities.

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous partners have noted their lack of inclusion and resourcing in the periodic review of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 30

Supporting Indigenous data sovereignty

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

TBS, LAC and ISC co-chair the Working Group on Indigenous Data Sovereignty to foster a whole-of-government approach to Indigenous Data Sovereignty. This working group includes over 10 federal organizations and met to coordinate on Indigenous Data Sovereignty issues and on consultations. To reduce engagement fatigue, participating members shared engagement plans. The 2025 review of the Access to Information Act provided an opportunity for the Government to examine potential legislative and policy approaches that respond to access to information challenges identified by Indigenous peoples.

Under the Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data, ISC supported the development of Indigenous-led data capacity that will culminate in future distinctions-based statistical institutions and functions. In 2025-26, the First Nations Information Governance Centre worked to finalize a blueprint to implement its network of Regional Information Governance Centres. Moreover, the Manitoba Métis Federation and the Métis National Council released distnict data strategies, while the other signatories of the Canada-Métis Nation Accord as well as Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami made significant progress on their respective strategies. All partners also advanced workplans for demonstration projects, which would be carried out if the Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data is funded for future years. Through the Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data, ISC also enhanced its data governance and data sharing capacities. Engagement with Indigenous partners on the upcoming ISC Policy on External Data Sharing continued, with a draft What We Heard Report shared with partners for feedback. Internal consultations on the draft Policy were also conducted. In addition, ISC delivered internal training sessions on external data sharing and continued to administer approximately 58 Information Sharing Agreements with external parties, including 16 agreements with First Nations, Inuit, or Métis partners.

LAC launched the first phase of its Indigenous data sovereignty initiative, by developing the Strategic Pathways for Indigenous Heritages, a strategic plan which will guide LAC moving forward. To develop this strategy, LAC undertook an initial phase of engagement with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations with interests and expertise in Indigenous Data Sovereignty and direct connections to rightsholders. LAC’s Indigenous Advisory Circle also provided input throughout the strategy’s development and on concrete actions that should support it. The strategy aims to establish a solid foundation, build cultural competency internally, renew relationships, and guide specific actions, agreements, and collaborations. LAC positions it as a long-term, ongoing priority that embeds support for Indigenous data sovereignty throughout its operations, functions, and frameworks.

PHAC advanced Indigenous Data Sovereignty by strengthening how principles are reflected across its surveillance systems, standards, and analytical practices. This included explicitly naming Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles within the pan-Canadian Public Health Information Sharing Agreement being negotiated with province-territory jurisdictions, developing guidance to support surveillance programs, providing technical and analytic support to enable distinctions-based, Indigenous-led analysis and reporting, and providing funding to the First Nations Information Governance Centre to develop a report on mental wellness inequalities among First Nations living on-reserve and in northern communities.

Statistics Canada (StatCan) initiatives continued to support Indigenous data sovereignty and capacity. The Indigenous Statistical Capacity Development Initiative delivers training in survey design, data management and analysis, and navigating StatsCan data, as well as provided customized support. For the 2026 Census, Indigenous liaison advisors conduct outreach and develop Indigenous community profiles. Though funding paused for the longstanding Indigenous Peoples Survey, this information still informs reports. The Nunavut Inuit Labour Force Analysis, co-developed with Inuit partners, tracks employment related to the Nunavut Agreement.

Transport Canada (TC) has taken steps to protect and provide legal consideration for Indigenous Knowledge. Transport Canada co-developed an Interdepartmental Indigenous Knowledge Policy Framework for Project Reviews and Regulatory Decisions with other departments to guide the relationship between federal officials and communities when working with Indigenous Knowledge.

A joint First Nations and DFO task force was established to support cross-Canada engagement for co-development of departmental policy on Indigenous Data Sovereignty. Task force activities focused on establishing an initial task force membership and developing materials to guide efforts throughout future co-development. Internal efforts have additionally been made to develop interim guidance for the department on Indigenous Data Sovereignty. This includes a requirements document on roles and responsibilities for employees with respect to interactions with Indigenous data and guidance documents to support the development of data sharing agreements that respect assertions of data sovereignty from Indigenous partners.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

ISC continued engagement with Indigenous partners on the development of its upcoming departmental Policy on External Data Sharing. Partners were notably asked to provide feedback on a draft What We Heard Report. In parallel, ISC continued to engage and cooperate with the Indigenous Delivery Partners leading workstreams under the Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data initiative. This was facilitated through regular bilateral functions with each partner, including continued meetings in connection with a Memorandum of Collaboration between ISC and the First Nations Information Governance Center. The purpose of these bilateral functions was to continue to support partners in the development and/or implementation of their respective data strategies.

TBS launched the mandatory cyclical review of the Access to Information Act in June 2025, followed by public engagement in March 2026. Engagement with Indigenous partners, consistent with section 5 of the UNDA, is a key element of the review. To support participation, TBS published a policy paper for the purpose of obtaining feedback and issued a call for proposals to over 170 Indigenous partners in March 2026. The policy paper was informed by feedback gathered from Indigenous partners during previous reviews and in the context of pre-engagement activities for the current review in the previous fiscal year. TBS is establishing contribution agreements with Indigenous partners who applied for financial support by the deadline.

LAC continued to consult with its Indigenous Advisory Circle made up of Indigenous professionals with expertise in the heritage sector. The department engaged early in the development of their strategy and action plan and have continued the conversation with the Advisory Circle during the development of the draft. LAC also met with the Manitoba Métis Federation, the First Nations Information Governance Centre, and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami to discuss high-level approaches to Indigenous Data Sovereignty, and these engagements will continue into 2026-27.

PHAC engaged Indigenous public health advisors and incorporated feedback to include specific Indigenous Data Sovereignty language in the Public Health Information Sharing Agreement. The agency also engaged in early discussions with National Indigenous Organizations to introduce the Economic Cost of Illness in Canada and explore a proposed framework for collaboration. The Nunatsiavut Government and Inuit Treaty Organizations were engaged through ongoing bilateral meetings, email exchanges, and data working groups to coordinate activities and advance distinctions-based Inuit reporting on child welfare indicators as part of the Canadian Child Welfare Information System. Lastly, PHAC continued engagement with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the Assembly of First Nations, and federal-provincial-territorial partners on Tuberculosis surveillance.

Statistics Canada’s Centre for Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships advance Indigenous data priorities with Indigenous partners. The Centre worked with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami to improve data services for Inuit and support Inuit Nunangat Policy implementation. The Centre co-authored tailored articles and tables with Indigenous organizations, held quarterly or ad hoc working-level meetings, and engaged monthly on pre-release publications to incorporate partner feedback. Consensus-based work continued on the Nunavut Inuit Labour Force Analysis with Nunavut partners and StatCan conducted outreach with First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities to prepare for the 2026 Census.

DFO has worked with First Nations organizations to establish a collaborative cross-Canada task force on Indigenous data sovereignty which will support co-development of departmental policy on roles and responsibilities around Indigenous Data Sovereignty. The task force has developed a thematic analysis of past collaborative efforts and relevant literature on Indigenous Data Sovereignty to guide task force activities. Cross-Canada engagement with First Nations in support of the policy co-development is planned for 2026-27. In preparation for the engagement, the task force has additionally developed a draft set of principles to guide the creation of responsible mechanisms for engagement.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One Modern Treaty First Nation launched a strengthened census initiative in partnership with the British Columbia First Nations Regional Information Governance Centre. They created a comprehensive, community‑wide census that integrated previous research and engagement results and generated detailed demographic, socio‑economic, and well‑being data to guide community planning and programming. The First Nation also noted they are piloting a Build Your Own Data Centre platform that supports security, storage, governance, and analysis of community information in a self-determined way. This platform is aligned with the First Nations Principles of Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession, and is compliant with British Columbia’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. This pilot advances long‑term goals for culturally grounded, sovereign data governance and future evidence‑based decision‑making. The census officially ran from November 2025 to February 2026, representing the community’s most extensive data‑collection effort to date.

Seperately, a number of other Modern Treaty First Nations provided input into the federal review of the Privacy Act and Access to Information Act but received no updates on those reviews or how their feedback will be addressed.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: DFO, PHAC, StatCan, TC

Shared Priority 31

Ongoing section 35 rights-based policy and program reforms

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The department noted that internal planning and analysis is underway to support the implementation of this Action Plan measure, informed by lessons learned, federal priorities and perspectives from Indigenous partners.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

CIRNAC noted that no consultation and cooperation took place during the 2025-26 fiscal year. Elements that are related to this Action Plan measure are in the planning phase and it is not expected that the department will be ready to consult on these elements in 2026-27.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 32

Guidance on engaging on natural resources projects to obtain FPIC

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) continued to lead the implementation of the development of guidance for engaging with Indigenous peoples on natural resource projects in order to seek to obtain free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) and provide advice to teams internally on how to consider FPIC in their work. NRCan hosted monthly meetings of an interdepartmental Director Table to support the development of guidance, serve as a sounding board for federal departments and agencies, provide a forum to share new or updated guidance or direction, and support implementation of guidance and training tools. In early 2026, the Major Projects Office was invited to join the Director Table. NRCan began working with provincial and territorial partners through the Energy and Mines Ministers' Conference on the development of a compendium of innovations in proponent-Indigenous partnerships in energy, mining and related infrastructure. The compendium will be finished in mid-2026 and will contribute to the guidance being developed under Shared Priority 32. NRCan and other departments and agencies continue to monitor Court decisions affecting FPIC.

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) continued to support NRCan on the implementation of this Action Plan measure, participating in the Director Table and providing updates on its consultations with Indigenous partners that are being conducted in a manner aiming towards consent. The CNSC also conducted a listening tour with Indigenous Nations, communities and organizations to allow an opportunity for these groups to provide input on CNSC policy, processes and practices. A What We Learned Report is in the process of being validated by Indigenous partners and will be shared with NRCan for its consideration.

Transport Canada (TC) participated at the Director Table to ensure alignment with whole-of-government efforts to achieve FPIC with Indigenous partners on natural resource projects. TC’s Indigenous Participant Funding Program funds projects and initiatives designed to support the capacity of Indigenous communities and organizations to take part in processes related to the Canadian Navigable Waters Act, the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan, and the Community Participation Funding Program.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

From May to September 2025, the CNSC conducted a listening tour and met with 19 Indigenous Nations, communities and organizations across the country. The tour provided a space for those partners to engage on broader policy topics, beyond project-specific discussions. CNSC staff noted that input received during the listening tour could be used to support UN Declaration Act Action Plan measures that the CNSC is supporting on. The CNSC plans to continue to leverage existing relationships with Indigenous Nations, communities and organizations to support implementation of this Action Plan measure.

TC noted that the department will continue to distribute the Engagement Opportunities Bulletin to over 1,575 individuals representing approximately 893 Indigenous nations, organizations, governments and communities nationally. Comments and concerns received by Indigenous partners will be addressed and incorporated into considerations and/or amendments to legislative and regulatory initiatives to ensure alignment with the UN Declaration.

Given lack of dedidcated funding, NRCan explored low‑cost consultation and cooperation opportunities with Indigenous partners and met regularly with NRCan’s Elders-in-Residence to advance this Action Plan measure. NRCan continues to keep Indigenous groups informed through updates shared on NRCan's website and engagements with the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Enbridge Line 3. In March 2026, NRCan also engaged with the Indigenous Advisory Council that supports the Major Projects Office. Discussions on FPIC with Indigenous thought leaders and organizations in the context of Shared Priority 12 also informed the work on Shared Priority 32.

CanNor’s work with Indigenous partners focused on supporting meaningful participation across the Agency’s programs and initiatives. CanNor’s Northern Project Management Office provided consultation processes for impact assessments of major projects across the territories. Indigenous governments and organizations were engaged with CanNor’s Northern Project Management Office during impact assessments of major projects including initial notifications, and direct meetings and correspondence throughout all stages of impact assessment, particularly the decision-making phases. With federal decision-makers, the Northern Project Management Office collaboratively developed Indigenous issues trackers, “What We Heard” reports summarising concerns voiced at community meetings, and decision-related documents to incorporate Indigenous issues and interests, potential impacts to rights, mitigations and accommodations, into the decision rationale for a project. In the last year, CanNor also worked with Inuit partners, including Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., who provided feedback into the evaluation of the Pilimmaksaivik Centre for Excellence in Inuit Employment.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Métis partners provided guidance on Shared Priority 32, as well as Shared Priority 66 regarding FPIC and economic participation mechanisms. With funding from NRCan, partners were able to engage early with Métis governments to define what good-faith consultation and cooperation should look like in major resource projects, especially when multiple regulators and jurisdictions are involved, and to emphasize the importance of integrating Métis knowledge into project planning. Although reduced funding has limited engagement capacity, and inhibits partners’ ability with Canada to support the advancement of joint-priorities, partners remained committed to collaborating with Canada and supporting Métis-specific, equitable participation in natural resource initiatives. Additionally, some First Nation partners advocated for the creation of a body which would ensure Indigenous partners have decisional jurisdiction in resource governance, not just advisory powers.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CanNor, CNSC, NRCan, TC

Shared Priority 33

Increasing economic participation in natural resources projects

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships program had an $80 million budget over 2022-23 to 2026-27 to increase Indigenous communities’ and groups’ economic participation, advancement, and leadership in natural resource development. This included providing supporting capacity development across all aspects of project planning, including at least $25 million dedicated to early engagement and capacity building for critical minerals projects. By the end of 2025-26, all funding was allocated through 57 multi-year contribution agreements, 6 of which were signed in 2025-26. Indigenous communities and organizations apply to the Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships program based on their needs, and funding to support consultation and cooperation is recommended when proposed activities align with the program’s objectives and expected results.

In the context of the Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program initiative, the Investment Analysis and Due Diligence program design was informed by engagements for the National Benefits Sharing Framework from 2022 to 2024. This engagement highlighted that tools and programs should be developed to facilitate Indigenous ownership of energy and natural resource projects, while providing capacity supports to allow meaningful Indigenous participation in the natural resources and energy sectors. NRCan, in coordination with the Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee Corporation, provided targeted contribution funding to support Indigenous groups in carrying out financial, legal, commercial, and technical analysis related to potential equity ownership opportunities. Six contribution agreements have been signed since the program opened on April 1, 2025. The program concluded on March 31, 2026.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

With the Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships program funding allocated, officials focused on strengthening relationships with current Indigenous recipients. The department gathered input on program improvements and effectiveness through questionnaires, virtual and in-person meetings, and many recipients also contributed to a formal program evaluation to help ensure the next iteration of the program better addresses evolving capacity needs for meaningful participation, advancement, and leadership in the natural resource sector. Some partners faced capacity or availability constraints that limited timely feedback, underscoring the value of offering multiple engagement options to reduce administrative burden. As the evaluation progresses and program renewal advances, Indigenous partners will continue to provide feedback on the analysis, findings, program design, key performance indicators, and expected outcomes.

With respect to the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program initiative, NRCan noted that formal engagement took place prior to 2025-26, with the Investment Analysis and Due Diligence program function shifting to delivery on April 1, 2025. During this phase, targeted engagement with Indigenous partners was undertaken to promote the funding stream and encourage applications from those groups that would benefit most from the capacity funding as the program concluded at the end of March 2026. The program is expected to undergo a third-party review in 2026-27 as part of the mandate outlined for program operations in connection with the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. This review may include further consultation and cooperation, but will not be led by NRCan.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One First Nation partner believes this Action Plan measure has potential if Indigenous partners are offered financing in a non-coercive manner and they are given the room to make an informed decision. Using funds secured from NRCan in 2024-25, one Métis partner advanced Métis participation in natural resource development. The funding supported Métis governments as equity partners, streamlined access to loans and strategic supports, and strengthened governance and economic opportunities in the critical minerals sector, which contributed to the Critical Minerals Perspectives Paper.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 34

Enhancing participation in natural resource projects regulated by the CER

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

NRCan completed Phase 2 engagement with Indigenous groups and stakeholders to inform the potential development of proposed Indigenous Ministerial Arrangements Regulations. If developed, the regulations would enable arrangements to be negotiated between Indigenous governing bodies and the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources to undertake specified powers, duties, and functions under the Canadian Energy Regulator Act. NRCan launched an Indigenous participant funding program in 2025-26 with funding up to $2.4 million that received 77 applications, and published a What We Heard Report 2024-25. Themes within this report informed a January 2026 Discussion Paper on the potential development of proposed regulations on issues related to governance, capacity building, and regulatory development approaches. Input on the Discussion Paper is being considered in the potential development of a proposed regulatory package.

There has been significant progress on the review of the CER’s Onshore Pipeline Regulations and Filing Manuals to improve the regulator’s oversight of impacts to the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples, and socio-economic effects and engagement requirements. In 2025-26, the CER completed its second phase of engagement (Phase 2). During this engagement phase, the CER led or participated in over 115 sessions with First Nations, Metis Governments and communities, industry and other stakeholders. Over $2.6 million in participant funding was provided to support Indigenous participation in this stage of review. The CER received over 125 submissions representing about 3500 individual comments or suggestions about 13 topic papers. Work is now underway, including engagement with the CER’s Board of Directors and the Indigenous Advisory Committee to draft the regulatory proposal and to update sections of the Filing Manuals. The CER also began planning for its third phase of engagement (Phase 3), anticipated to be launched in Fall 2026. The regulator also conducted a regulatory pilot, conducting two mock compliance verification activities. The purpose of these mock activities was to test a compliance verification process to involve Indigenous Peoples in overseeing pipeline activities that could affect their rights and interests.

A systemic model to enhance Indigenous Peoples’ involvement in compliance and oversight (Systemic Model) is in the first of a multi-phased process. Through early engagement, this initiative has benefited from the guidance of the CER Indigenous Advisory Committee, the Co-Chairs of the Trans Mountain Expansion and Enbridge Line 3 Replacement (Line 3) Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees, as well as the CER's Board of Directors. In addition, the CER, in collaboration with NRCan and Indigenous partners participating in Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee Line 3, have updated the Committee’s Terms of Reference to explicitly reference the Systemic Model which will help clarify Line 3’s role in contributing to and informing the Systemic Model’s development. Lastly, CER is finalizing a co‑written What We Heard report with Indigenous technical experts that reflects input from Indigenous partners on their desired role in compliance and oversight of the Nova Gas Transmission Ltd System. This will help inform and shape the next steps on the Systemic Model.

A Leadership Table for this Action Plan measure consisting of the Indigenous Co-Chairs of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Line 3 and the Trans Mountain Expansion, CER, and NRCan leadership is in place with established Terms of Reference to collaborate to drive the successful implementation of Shared Priority 34.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

NRCan, with support from CER, worked collaboratively to engage and inform the development of proposed Indigenous Ministerial Arrangements Regulations. CER provided subject matter expertise on NRCan’s engagement materials, produced engagement materials on the CER’s mandate, tools, and operations, and supported engagements with CER officials, where possible. A What We Heard report will be circulated in Fall 2026, following engagements which took place in 2025-26.

The CER noted that, while formal Phase 2 engagement for the Onshore Pipeline Regulations and Filing Manuals update concluded on March 31, 2025, additional consultation and cooperation activities occurred during the 2025-26 fiscal year as partners provided additional submissions and requested meetings. Engagement also took place with Indigenous partners through the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees, the Indigenous Oversight Forum for the Nova Gas Transmission Line system, and the Shared Priority 34 Leadership Table. Phase 3 engagement will seek to consult and cooperate with Indigenous partners by soliciting feedback on the draft regulatory proposal and Filing Manual changes. Phase 3 activities will include requesting written feedback and, in the case of the Onshore Pipeline Regulations, information sessions and meetings upon request. The CER also provided a progress report to members of its Indigenous Advisory Committee and provided guidance on initiative implementation and planning.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

In 2025-26, the terms of reference for the Leadership Table, that guides the overall implementation of Shared Priority 34, were adopted and the group met to establish outcomes and indicators of success. The Indigenous Caucus for the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee – Trans Mountain Expansion conducted engagement of its constituent communities through a Line Wide gathering focused on the theme of Indigenous Regulatory Excellence. Work in 2025-26 focused on concrete actions to create a systemic model for Indigenous monitoring and advice. Some partners felt this Action Plan measure has potential to enhance Indigenous participation in natural resources projects, especially through the Indigenous Ministerial Regulations Arrangements, but its ability to succeed in the long term must still be determined. They indicated that trust building, with greater transparency and on-the-ground engagement, will be important. Previous experience has provided some positive working relationships with federal officials and has helped to advance the work, though barriers to creativity and partnership still exist. In general, partners advocated for greater inclusion of Indigenous worldviews in the regulatory space, noting the importance of both public and Indigenous interests. Some Métis partners engaged with NRCan to advance Métis participation in the proposed Indigenous Ministerial Arrangements Regulations strategy and apply co-development principles in its delivery. They also promoted federal recognition of Métis governance to strengthen regulatory involvement and decision-making related to lands and resources.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 35

Harvesting rights and Parks Canada

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

During 2025-26 fiscal year, draft guidance on supporting Indigenous harvesting requests was developed and an overview of the status of harvesting in heritage places was presented to the PC Indigenous Stewardship Circle, an advisory body of Indigenous thought leaders, for discussion and review of next steps.

The second Indigenous ceremonial bison hunt was held in Banff National Park between Oct-Dec 2025, led by the Indigenous Advisory Circle for Banff National Park. This harvest is a significant step in strengthening Indigenous partnerships, renewing connections to the land, and revitalizing ceremonial and cultural hunting practices within Banff National Parks. A sub-circle of the Indigenous Stewardship Circle was established to advise on the development and launch of the Indigenous cultural learning framework and program, and an internal to PC learning campus was developed to provide a centralized learning portal. Additional resources will be required for national-scale consultations as this work advances.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The department noted that consultation and cooperation continued with regards to proposed National Marine Conservation Area General Regulations in relation to the interactions with, and potential barriers to exercise of Indigenous harvesting rights, with the Assembly of First Nations and co-management boards within the conservation areas. Work also advanced with the Banff Indigenous Circle to co-develop the approach for the ceremonial bison harvest in Banff National Park. PC maintains a partnership-based approach to communications regarding harvesting and develops messages in collaboration with Indigenous communities. Officials put significant efforts into building internal to Government and public understanding and acceptance of Indigenous harvesting within protected heritage places as a stewardship activity that has been disrupted by colonial policy. However, dedicated additional resources to advance shared priorities with Indigenous partners continues to be a challenge.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 36

Fishing rights – legislative, regulatory, or policy amendments and reforms

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, DFO partnered with the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat and the First Nations Fisheries Council of British Columbia to convene workshops in relation to the modernization of the Policy for the Management of Aboriginal Fishing (1993 Policy). The purpose of these workshops was to engage with Indigenous participants and organizations on policy topics related to Indigenous fishing, and discuss forward direction for the project. Additionally, DFO consulted Indigenous partners on a draft Communal Commercial Fisheries Licensing Policy for Eastern Canada to hear their information and perspectives.

DFO also noted that any potential changes to communal commercial licensing in Eastern Canada under this Action Plan measure would be pursued using currently available departmental resources and funding. However, any potential future in-person engagements or consultations with Indigenous partners would require additional project funding.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

As noted above, DFO partnered with the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat and the First Nations Fisheries Council of British Columbia to convene workshops to support engagement on the 1993 Policy. Separate conversations were held on East and West Coasts, given differing Indigenous fishing contexts, and to account for various perspectives from Indigenous partners. Nationally, four workshops were held in 2025-26. The department also continued to meet with Indigenous communities and organizations in Eastern Canada to understand their perspectives on the draft Communal Commercial Fisheries Licensing Policy for Eastern Canada and where changes could be made to better reflect their visions and interests.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some First Nation partners have recommended that the Species at Risk Act be reformed to ensure full participation of First Nations in the identification, protection and recovery of species at risk.

One Modern Treaty partner noted that it has invested significant time and resources trying to work with DFO to remove barriers and restrictions on fisheries and barriers presented by other fishery sectors that marginalize their participation in the domestic and economic fisheries and inhibit meaningful implementation and exercise of treaty rights.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 37

Collaborative fisheries management and fish habitat conservation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

DFO work continued across Canada to strengthen collaborative governance, agreements, and transparent approaches to support shared fisheries management with Indigenous partners. In the Pacific Region, implementation of the 2021 Coastal First Nations Fisheries Resources Reconciliation Agreement and Incremental Reconciliation Agreement for Fisheries Resources with the Five Nations remained key examples of collaborative fisheries governance. New long-term fisheries arrangements were signed in early 2026, including the A-Tlegay Reconciliation Agreement for Fisheries Resources, Musqueam Fisheries Agreement, and Musqueam Stewardship and Marine Management Agreement. On the East Coast, 7 Rights Reconciliation Agreements with Mi’kmaq, Wolastoqey, and Peskotomuhkati Nations continued to implement collaborative management structures capable of providing joint recommendations to the Minister. The Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program continued advancing the implementation of consultation protocols, based on successes of the Consultation Protocols with the Kitselas First Nation, to further the collaboration with Indigenous Peoples to improve program delivery, strengthen staff understanding of Indigenous Nations’ interests, and reinforce relationships. The Department noted that no dedicated funding has been allocated for the implementation of this Action Plan measure, and all activities are being carried out using existing funding initiatives.

Building on the success of the co-developed and signed Consultation Protocols with the Kitselas First Nation, DFO continued to work with Indigenous Peoples to develop program-specific, regional, and case-by-case, operational guidelines to assist staff throughout the consultation process by providing clarity on existing requirements and timelines, thereby enhancing program delivery, deepening staff understanding of Indigenous Nations’ interests, and strengthening the relationship with Indigenous Peoples.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

DFO noted several meetings were regularly held throughout 2025-26 to advance treaty and reconciliation agreements in Pacific region, such as joint executive committees, bioregional management committees, sub-regional management councils, and community-based fishery sub-committees. Meetings were also held with Treaty Nations in the East Coast as part of their Rights and Reconciliation Agreements, and exploratory discussions on collaborative fisheries management proceeded with 18 of the 20 Treaty Nations that rejected the Rights and Reconciliation Agreements mandate. DFO also engaged with the Listuguj Mi'gmaq Government in Quebec regarding the renewal of their Rights and Reconciliation Agreement set to expire in 2026. DFO noted that the new Indigenous committee for Atlantic seals was created and met twice in 2025-26, providing a platform for Indigenous participants to discuss and develop recommendations on a range of issues related to Atlantic seals, with potential for application to other fishery advisory processes in the future. Virtual round tables were held with Indigenous organizations from across the country to discuss how the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program can increase collaboration and early engagement with Indigenous partners on the conservation and protection of fish and fish habitat. The outcomes from these engagements will inform the approach of the program. Factors that have been found to be important for working with Indigenous Peoples include early engagement, sufficient funding, reasonable timelines to respond to requests, and holding in-person meetings.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner noted that work with DFO, as well as with Transport Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, and the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada resulted in some regulatory improvements (for example, oil response regulations) and some improvements that are underway (for example, establishing response regulations for hazardous and noxious substances). However, many regulatory gaps remain including shared decision making, invasive species, anchorages, and a compensation regime.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 38

Capacity funding for fisheries, oceans and marine-related services and decision-making

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, DFO's suite of Indigenous Collaborative Programs delivered more than $60 million in ongoing contributions to support the monitoring and stewardship objectives of more than 200 Indigenous program participants across the country. This includes continuous investment in the staffing and deployment of over 1,600 full and part-time positions filling managerial, scientific, technical and Indigenous Guardian roles. Collectively, this capacity represents a broad network of Indigenous leadership, expertise and knowledge that contributes to range of advisory and decision-making processes, whether community-based, governmental, or private sector. Core funding delivered through the programs was further supplemented by flexible short-term investments in the training, tools and activities relied on by Indigenous communities and organizations as they advance and grow different fisheries, habitat and marine-related service offerings. The programs also made focused investments in Resource Management Officer Technician training involving nearly 70 people from 35 participating Indigenous communities, took important steps in the co-development of strategies to increase awareness and recognition of Indigenous leadership and excellence, and worked to advance the co-design of tools, practices and performance metrics that can improve administrative efficiency and better communicate the successes and challenges experienced in the fisheries and aquatic resource management space.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

DFO noted that Indigenous Collaborative Programs rely on several different co-development, co-design, and co-delivery processes to ensure effective engagement and cooperation with Indigenous partners. This includes the holding of 10 monthly meetings with each of the joint DFO-Indigenous Collaborative Programs Management Committee and National Aboriginal Aquatic Resource and Oceans Management Steering Committee, as well as bi-weekly planning discussions with the third-party and Indigenous-led Capacity Development Team. Meetings were held with the goal of facilitating continuous dialogue on program implementation and improvement, specifically as it relates to the capacity building objectives of its Indigenous partners. Further consultation and cooperation occurred at the local level, with regional DFO staff regularly engaging more than 200 Indigenous communities and organizations in fisheries and aquatic resource management work-planning, budget development and related results reporting and knowledge sharing. Consultation and cooperation is expected to continue into 2026-27, as this is embedded into DFO’s Indigenous Collaborative Programs.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 39

Support for fisheries Guardians

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

DFO is advancing work to support the development of training for new designated Aboriginal Fishery Guardians, this also included a comprehensive framework to address policy needs, training gaps, and curriculum design. This work is advancing collaboratively with Guardians, Indigenous Knowledge holders, and departmental representatives to ensure the curriculum meets both departmental and community needs, and is complemented by a draft policy, developed with multiple Indigenous groups, on minimum standard equipment for Guardians. In 2025-26, funding to advance this initiative was reallocated from other areas of the department through risk management exercises.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Please see above how DFO has advanced this Action Plan measure in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners, such as to develop a comprehensive training framework that addresses policy development, updates, and training gaps.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 40

Incorporation of Indigenous knowledge related to fisheries

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

DFO continued to build capacity and create mechanisms in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples to ensure Indigenous Knowledge and Indigenous data are meaningfully included in departmental programs, policies, and decision-making processes in ways that are respectful, culturally informed and aligned with Indigenous priorities. The recently finalized Framework for Aquatic Species at Risk Conservation will guide improvements to conservation outcomes by supporting multi-species approaches under the Species at Risk Act. New governance models are advancing shared decision‑making by integrating Indigenous Knowledge into collaborative conservation efforts across the Pacific, Arctic, and Quebec regions. To build shared understandings around priorities and barriers for Indigenous data sovereignty in the context of safeguarding and respectful use of Indigenous Knowledge, seven workshops have been held with First Nations communities and a joint First Nations-DFO task force was established to support cross-Canada engagement. Additionally DFO analyzed over 20 reports to better understand Indigenous perspectives and recommendations related to the inclusion of Indigenous Knowledge in fisheries, ocean protection, and federal decision-making.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

DFO began early outreach in 2025-26 with the Assembly of First Nations and several co-governance tables to share information on how the Department currently respects and includes Indigenous Knowledge in programs, policies and decision-making processes, as well as the proposed implementation approach and associated engagement plans. The joint First Nations-DFO task force will guide engagement prioritized around practices and protocols of respecting and safeguarding Indigenous data and knowledge. The Department has also worked with several communities to integrate Indigenous Knowledge, including integrating the concept of "Etuaptmumk", or "Two-Eyed Seeing", across various Marine Planning and Conservation initiatives, documenting ancestral territories of First Nation communities in Quebec, working with Kitasoo Xai'xais Nation and additional collaborators on the “Git qṃsistá (people of the moon tipped over): learning together to revitalize herring” project to provide guidance on Pacific herring management, and providing support for Inuit Guardians (Nauttiqsuqtiit) and enabling Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit as a foundation for long-term marine protection in Inuit Protected and Conserved Areas. The approach to engagement will continue to advance this Action Plan measure in a transparent, accountable manner that is guided by Indigenous Peoples and respects the right to self-determination.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 41

Collaborative Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative Implementation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, implementation continued to focus on advancing collaborative salmon actions, processes and policy modernization supported by the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative. Progress on collaborative actions included ongoing partnerships to support salmon enhancement, Indigenous harvest transformation projects, Indigenous-led stewardship/salmon restoration/innovation, and collaborative planning and response to extreme climate events affecting Pacific salmon.

DFO continued to support twelve collaborative salmon processes with First Nations through Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative, including integrated rebuilding of Nanaimo River Chinook with the Snuneymuxw First Nation, implementation of the Fraser Salmon Management Board (78 signatory First Nations in the Fraser River watershed), and the new Trilateral Salmon Accord. DFO is collaborating with BC First Nations and the Yukon Salmon Sub-Committee to update the Pacific Salmon Allocation Policy and develop distinct versions for Yukon and British Columbia.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, DFO consulted, cooperated, and collaborated with First Nations in British Columbia and the Yukon through the implementation of a subset of Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative actions, processes, and policy modernization activities that involve a high degree of collaboration. Shared Priority 41 implementation was also profiled again in 2025-26 as a key topic for the Assembly of First Nations Fisheries Committee as part of a broader DFO presentation at First Nations Fisheries Council of British Columbia’s 2025 Annual General Assembly. As part of the Salmon Allocation Policy Review in British Columbia, the Department undertook a broad, external consultation process in which all British Columbia First Nations were invited to provide feedback on proposed changes to the policy. DFO also met with individual First Nations and First Nation organizations to discuss potential changes. Moving forward, this Action Plan measure will continue to be advanced under the renewed Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 42

Marine Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Government of Canada has worked with First Nations and Inuit to empower Indigenous-led marine conservation and advance Shared Priority 42 using transformative innovative financing approaches and collaborative governance.

DFO collaborated with federal partners, First Nations, and the Province of British Columbia to implement the Great Bear Sea project finance for performance Agreement and Marine Protected Area Network Action Plan, supporting the establishment and stewardship of a collaboratively governed network of marine protected and conserved areas with long-term conservation funding. Once fully implemented, the network will add over 30,000 square kilometres of new and enhanced marine protected areas, with sites applying dual designation as Government of Canada and Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas. DFO also partnered with the Haida Nation to establish two co managed Marine Refuges in G̱aw Ḵáahlii (Masset Inlet) and X̲aana K̲aahlii (Skidegate Inlet), covering approximately 29.58 square kilometres.

DFO also collaborated with the Qikiqtani Inuit Association to advance the implementation of the SINAA Project Finance for Permanence Agreement. The SINAA conservation plan lists many proposed and existing marine protected and conserved areas that is aimed to be federally protected and that Qikiqtani Inuit Association aspires to designate as Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas. DFO is committed to supporting Qikiqtani Inuit Association in their efforts to designated all sites as Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas.

In addition, DFO worked with the Qikiqtani Inuit Association to advance the establishment of the Qikiqtait and Sarvarjuaq Oceans Act Marine Protected Areas which were established on March 28, 2026, and are anticipated to be dually designated as Government of Canada and Inuit Protected and Conserved Areas. These two areas together cover more than 116,000 square kilometres and are the first sites to be designated under the SINAA Project Finance for Permanence Agreement.

Finally, DFO collaborated with the Assembly of First Nations’ Water Sector to jointly identify policy opportunities, gaps, and challenges for future policy work to advance marine Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas with First Nations, and re-engaged with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, alongside federal partners, to advance Inuit led marine conservation through policy development and a whole of government approach across Inuit Nunangat.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

DFO delivers on consultation commitments through site establishment processes for Marine Protected Areas and other effective area-based conservation measures, and through the implementation of agreements that support Indigenous-led conservation. During 2025-26, progress on consultation and cooperation activities to advance marine Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas continued, but several barriers affected the pace and consistency of engagement. Within the department, organizational capacity constraints contributed to delays. Staff availability, competing priorities, and the need for specialized expertise affected the ability to advance work in a timely and coordinated manner, including follow-up with partners and preparation of materials required for collaborative discussions. Some Indigenous partners likewise faced limited capacity, including small teams managing multiple government processes and regional initiatives simultaneously. These pressures affected their ability to engage as frequently or as deeply as desired, contributing to slower progression in some areas. Capacity challenges cited by Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami have also limited DFO’s ability to engage on Inuit Protected and Conserved Areas and DFO-specific matters.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 43

Addressing systemic racism in enforcement of fisheries laws and regulations

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

A key priority of DFO's Conservation and Protection work is to amplify the voices of Indigenous people in Canada. A recurring theme across initiatives is centered on listening to feedback from various Indigenous groups and Knowledge Holders. Indigenous cultural awareness training begins at the cadet stage during the Fishery Officer Initial Training program which includes 3 days of mandatory Indigenous perceptions training. During 2025-26, 3 of these trainings were facilitated in-person, each including presentations by an Elder for a full day. Elders also attended the Graduation ceremonies for cadets, including one ceremony that included the option for cadets to swear their Oath on an Eagle Feather as an alternative to swearing it on a Bible. The department also advanced work with the Indigenous Engagement Teams Network, made up of Indigenous Engagement Teams in each region and at National Headquarters that meets monthly. This group works on coordination of efforts and finding efficiencies while sharing best practices. Work also continued with the Indigenous Fishery Officer Network, and while the annual in-person meeting was not possible with all Indigenous Fishery Officer Network members, a smaller meeting with a Steering Committee made up of Regional Representatives was held to advance work on key items and priority setting that will contribute to reducing systemic racism.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

All the training organized by the Indigenous Engagement Programs of Conservation and Protection is delivered by Indigenous providers or co-facilitated internally with Indigenous employees. When any policies or procedures are developed, they are done by contacting Indigenous Knowledge holders directly to have them inform how the new procedure should be done. Additionally, opportunities for in-person meetings allow employees to listen to community members who can share their priorities and proposals for how to make meaningful change. Through the Indigenous Engagement Team with Conservation and Protection, DFO will continue to amplify and the voices of Indigenous people through training opportunities, cultural experiences delivered by Indigenous groups, and other opportunities to consult and cooperate whenever possible.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 44

National aquaculture legislation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

DFO noted that departmental resources have focused on the transition of salmon aquaculture in British Columbia, the outcomes of which will inform the development of the proposed federal Aquaculture Act.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

DFO noted that it has not undertaken consultation or cooperation with Indigenous partners within 2025-26 as work on the proposed Aquaculture Act is delayed.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 45

Aligning DND and CAF programs with the UN Declaration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

DND and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) continued to progress this Action Plan measure by continuing engagement on DND and CAF processes and mechanisms. A new tracking device was developed to ensure that all engagements with Indigenous communities are tracked as to better inform the formal processes of co-developing future policies and frameworks. Both DND and the CAF are aligning programs and activities with Article 30 of the UN Declaration, and other relevant articles where applicable. This work is being done using existing resources and, if required, additional support and consultations can be funded through an internal grants and contributions program.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

DND and CAF regularly consult with Indigenous partners on a range of topics including military activities, funding allotments, as well as infrastructure and procurement processes. For example, DND and CAF met with community members in Rigolet, Postville and Cartwright to discuss access and activity planning in Happy Valley–Goose Bay in relation to air force processes. Recognizing that communities may at times face resource barriers to effective engagement, where required DND and CAF now offers funding to support engagement and consultation activities. Both federal organizations are in the process of co-developing engagement and consultation Protocol Agreements that will help continue to build and maintain strong Crown-Indigenous relationships, while the Agreement itself can support engagement processes or in fulfilling the duty to consult.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 46

Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda was on hold in 2025-26 as governmental priorities continue to evolve. Federal implementation of Indigenous climate recommendations has not yet been realized. Through bilateral engagement with Indigenous governments and organizations across Canada, as well as through the three distinctions-based Senior Bilateral Tables on Clean Growth and Climate Change with First Nations, Inuit and Métis, Indigenous partners have continued to articulate that advancing Indigenous climate priorities through implementation of the Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda is a key priority. Co-development of the agenda is complete, however federal support is required to advance implementation.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

As policy and fiscal authorities are required to implement the co-developed approach, no consultation and cooperation on the Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda occurred in 2025-26. However, conversations regarding Indigenous-led climate action will continue in 2026-27 at the distinctions-based Senior Bilateral Tables on Clean Growth and Climate Change and by request of Indigenous governments and organizations.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One First Nation partner acknowledged the ongoing consultation and engagement, however they believe that a substantive action plan is required for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 47

Indigenous leadership in conservation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025‑26, Indigenous conservation initiatives focused on advancing Indigenous-led stewardship, governance, and capacity. Indigenous Guardians supported 86 ongoing initiatives - including 70 First Nations, 9 Inuit and 7 Métis Guardians initiatives - as well as 47 new First Nations Guardians initiatives, under distinct governance models co-developed with Indigenous partners. The Indigenous Partnerships Initiative supported 79 Indigenous-led projects emphasizing restoration, monitoring, Indigenous knowledge gathering, and capacity-building for the conservation of caribou, grizzly bear, bison, polar bear and other culturally significant species. Funding from the Indigenous Partnerships Initiative continued to support Species at Risk Act consultation and cooperation activities with dozens of communities. Projects led by the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and Métis National Council provided insights on species at risk and culturally significant species, as well as distinct Indigenous approaches to the stewardship of nature. A national gathering highlighted Indigenous partners’ views that the Indigenous Partnerships Initiative has been a uniquely flexible funding mechanism that honoured and reflected participants’ cultural values, advanced their communities’ conservation priorities, and recognized the value of Indigenous knowledge and its transfer to youth. ECCC also worked with more than 20 Indigenous partners, the Government of the Northwest Territories (NWT), and philanthropic donors to negotiate and launch the NWT: Our Land for the Future Project Finance for Permanence initiative, establishing the Our Land for the Future Trust. The Trust enables Indigenous-led projects under an Indigenous-led governance model, with the first suite of projects now approved for funding. Through the Indigenous-Led Area-Based Conservation initiative, ECCC supported approximately 65 projects with 70 partners to plan and establish Indigenous-led and co-led protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures, enabling relationship building, providing opportunities for Indigenous partners to work collaboratively with provinces and territories on land use planning, and identifying areas for conservation and socio-economic outcomes.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

As noted above, ECCC worked with Indigenous partners to advance Indigenous-led stewardship and conservation through multiple collaborative activities. In June 2025, the First Nations National Guardians Network hosted over 200 Guardians, Elders, youth, and community leaders in British Columbia to strengthen Indigenous-led stewardship. Additionally, in December 2025, the First Nations National Guardians Network and the Government of Canada jointly announced 47 First Nations Guardians initiatives through ECCC’s Indigenous Guardians program. To better consult and cooperate with Indigenous partners, ECCC sought to apply a distinctions-based approach, implement flexible contribution agreements, and initiate engagement early to ensure respectful and transparent collaboration. ECCC co-designed the agenda for the Indigenous Partnerships Initiative National Gathering in February 2026 with the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and Métis National Council, focusing on Indigenous-led conservation of species at risk and culturally significant species. The Species at Risk Act Consultation, Cooperation and Accommodation project continued to support Indigenous participation in implementation, while reporting timelines and funding scope were adapted to better reflect Indigenous partners’ capacity and priorities. Canada supported planning, implementation and partner engagement for the Indigenous-led NWT: Our Land for the Future Project Finance for Permanence initiative through participation in the Our Land for the Future Partners Table.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some partners expressed concern about the limited funding available and stressed the importance of providing sustainable funding to advance work focused on lands and stewardship, including Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas. One partner noted that discussions with ECCC on enforcement continued in 2025-26 and confirmed their ability to enforce treaty migratory bird provisions but no other environmental priorities. One Métis partner recommended that Canada reintroduce the Nature Accountability Act to be consistent with the Declaration. Priority actions should include establishing a “Nature & Rights” table with ECCC, CIRNAC, Métis Governments, and the Métis National Council to coordinate protected areas, Guardians programs, and environmental monitoring; finalizing a Métis Environmental Monitoring framework with predictable funding and reporting; clarifying ministerial responsibilities through an interdepartmental system to deliver nature commitments; and providing resources to support Métis-led engagement that centers the voices of women, youth, Elders, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 48

Indigenous science in ECCC scientific inquiry

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Indigenous Science Division at ECCC, established in January 2022 as an Indigenous-led division, brings together Indigenous science on par with Western science to improve decision-making, guided by principles such as Rematriation, Reconciliation, Respect, and Reciprocity. The division develops an Indigenous lens for ECCC’s science, policy, and programs, builds equitable partnerships with Indigenous Knowledge Holders, aligns science planning with Indigenous governments and communities, and supports Indigenous methodologies, language and cultural revitalization, and recognition of local and regional Indigenous science capacities. Within the 2025-26 fiscal year, Indigenous Science Division projects have included the Aki Navigators, the Anishinaabemowin Language Series, the Indigenous Stewardship Research Program, the IndigenEthics Project, the Indigenous Voices in Science Series, and work on Indigenous Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. However, existing resources are largely project-based and time-limited, constraining the divisions ability to sustain long-term partnerships with Indigenous communities and governments, Knowledge Holders, and to meet increasing demand from internal divisions for Indigenous science expertise, document review, and governance participation.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Indigenous Science Division has engaged with a number of Indigenous communities. For example, they engage regularly with the Ugpi'ganjig First Nation and the Gespe'gewagi Institute of Natural Resources to address climate change priorities, funding and capacity gaps in support of a community-led Calm Gardens restoration initiative. In addition, work with the Aki Navigators, which lead Indigenous community engagement and provide technical guidance to project staff, integrated health, safety and environmental requirements into project planning and implementation. Lastly, in collaboration with the Wildlife Research Division within ECCC, the Williams Lake First Nation, and the University of Northern British Columbia, the weaving section of the Indigenous Science Division is co-developing a research program that seeks to elevate, advance, and mobilize Indigenous scientific understandings of terrestrial ecosystem-level responses to Secwépemc-guided land stewardship across Secwepemcúĺecw in interior British Columbia.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 49

Canada Water Agency and the Canada Water Act

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The CWA reported that pre-engagement with Indigenous partners began in 2024 to gather input on engagement approaches for reviewing the Act. Pre-engagement was paused during the 2025 election and the period that followed while the CWA sought government direction and funding confirmation, with follow-up meetings used to maintain relationships and clarify prior submissions. With direction and funding confirmed through 2028-29, pre-engagement resumed in February 2026, including discussions about engagement activites supported by multi-year funding agreements. Going forward, the CWA will engage national, provincial, territorial, and regional Indigenous organizations across First Nations, Inuit, and Métis distinctions.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Pre-engagement on the Canada Water Act review was paused for the 2025 election and the period that followed while government direction and funding were confirmed. During this pause, the CWA held follow-up meetings with Indigenous partners to maintain relationships and clarify their earlier submissions. Once directon was confirmed and funding for Indigenous partners was secured through 2028-29, pre-engagement resumed in February 2026, with a focus on establishing multi-year funding agreements. However, limited funding and allocation meant some partners received only partial support for their engagement needs.

Indigenous partners emphasized that engagement should be distinctions-based, regionally tailored, and inclusive. Many partners prefer direct, bilateral, in-person discussions; while some support multi-party forums, bilateral engagement was most often identified as the preferred approach. Partners also asked for: longer lead times and flexible scheduling that respects cultural and seasonal activities; participation by a wide range of Indigenous representatives; culturally safe practices (including the use of Indigenous languages, where appropriate); clear scopes, timelines and expectations; and recognition of past input. Indigenous partners also stressed the need for early, adequate, and flexible multi-year funding with simplified reporting. Pre-engagement will continue in 2026-27, working with distinction-based national and regional Indigenous partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 50

Federal Sustainable Development Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Sustainable Development Advisory Council, created under the Federal Sustainable Development Act, advises the Minister responsible for Environment and Climate Change Canada on sustainability issues and reviews draft Federal Sustainable Development Strategies. The council has 28 seats, including 6 for Indigenous Peoples, but currently only has 18 active members. The Sustainable Development Office began renewing some of the Council’s seats by issuing a Notice of Opportunity in October 2024, and 3 Indigenous members were recently appointed. Within 2025-26, research has supported drafting the 2026–29 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, including analysis of sustainable development priorities identified by National and other Indigenous organizations, and efforts have been made to ensure these groups are informed of the 120-day public consultation period and have multiple ways to provide input.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, the Sustainable Development Office engaged Indigenous partners to support the development of the the public consultation plan and Indigenous engagement approach for the draft 2026-29 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, including early outreach and consultation notices to National and regional Indigenous organizations. The Sustainable Development Office sought to leverage established mechanisms, such as Indigenous climate tables, and participated in the Goose Moon Table in February 2026 to engage Métis partners. Key limitations included difficulty maintaining consistent communication with National Indigenous Organizations due to limited capacity funding, leading to lessons learned on the importance of early notice, sufficient time, and use of trusted mechanisms to reduce engagement fatigue. Ongoing consultation and cooperation is occurring through a 120-day public consultation on the draft 2026-29 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, open until May 12, 2026. Funding to support consultation and cooperation will depend on available resources. The Sustainable Development Office will continue, where feasible, to explore options to facilitate Indigenous participation through low-barrier methods like virtual sessions, online questionnaires, written submissions, and support in activities delivered with external partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 51

Impact assessments and alignment with UN Declaration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

IAAC implements the Impact Assessment Act in a manner that aligns with the objectives and spirit of the UN Declaration, emphasizing free, prior, and informed consent, protection of Indigenous rights and Indigenous Knowledge, and a collaborative consultation and cooperation model with Indigenous Peoples. During the 2025-26 fiscal year, IAAC advanced several agreements and initiatives with Indigenous groups related to project-specific consultations and knowledge-sharing, became the first federal agency to sign on to a consultation and engagement protocol between the Government of Canada and the S’ólh Téméxw Stewardship Alliance, worked with Indigenous groups on an Offshore Wind Readiness Team, formed an External Technical Review of project impacts, co-drafted to different extents a number of assessment reports with Indigenous groups, and published guidance on cultural safety. IAAC also funds Indigenous participation and capacity building in impact assessments and policy development through core mandate resources and dedicated programs such as the Participant Funding Program, the Indigenous Capacity Support Program, and the Policy Dialogue Program.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

At the end of the 2025-26 fiscal year, IAAC had 33 active impact assessments, of which 9 were paused awaiting proponent action or information. Other projects were in the pre-planning stage Through ongoing consultation, funding programs, partnership agreements, joint assessment committes, and collaboration with Modern Treaty Partners and the Indigenous Advisory Committee, IAAC aims to strengthen Indigenous participation and ensure Indigenous rights, interests, and perspectives are integrated in impact assessments. IAAC began modifying its processes in 2025-26, increasing provincial cooperation to reduce duplication, and advancing best practices such as early and transparent consultation. On projects with Indigenous proponents, IAAC worked closely with those proponents to promote clarity and timely decisions. In addition, IAAC undertook national engagement on federal-provincial cooperation agreements, including the One Project, One Review consultation paper and draft agreements with several provinces (receiving over 50 Indigenous submissions, which are informing the content of agreements and their implementation). IAAC also continued negotiations and implementation of impact assessment provisions in Modern Treaties and self-government agreements.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One First Nation partner acknowledged progress in aligning implementation of the Impact Assessment Act with the UN Declaration, including Indigenous participation. However, they also recommend the measure go further on cumulative effects and respect and support for Indigenous-led assessment processes. Concerns have been raised regarding what some view as reduced oversight under the One Project, One Review approach, particularly what they see as the potential to bypass Impact Assessment Act review processes through Co-operation Agreements with individual provinces. While opportunities for public comment on the approach and resulting agreements are acknowledged, partners have shared that in their view, general requests for public input do not constitute meaningful consultation or cooperation with Indigenous governments, representative institutions, or organizations.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 52

Indigenous border mobility

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, the CBSA and IRCC, supported by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC), continued significant discussions with Indigenous partners originally started in 2023-24. These discussions are being used to inform the development of potential policy options aimed at addressing the complex border crossing and migration challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples. Temporary measures to reunite families of Indigenous People separated by Canada’s border were implemented by the Minister in 2024 and the cost was covered using existing departmental resources. Any legislative changes made in the future related to these measures will require a dedicated source of funds. On a parallel track, from 2024-25 through 2026-27, the CBSA, IRCC, and CIRNAC each committed limited three‑year funding to cover administration and coordination costs for the Jay Treaty Border Alliance Collaborative Initiative in support of implementing this Action Plan measure.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, the CBSA and IRCC, supported by CIRNAC, continued to engage in ongoing bilateral discussions with Indigenous partners, however some activities scheduled for 2025-26 were put on hold due to the federal election and the subsequent need to appoint and brief new federal ministers. The progress of this initiative was further affected by tightly focused government priorities. Consultation and cooperation activities with Indigenous partners regarding potential additional measures to make further progress against this Action Plan measure, including legislative and regulatory changes and their implementation, will continue.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner shared challenges faced by some First Nation people with crossing the US-Canada border. In this regard, another partner noted that some Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ travellers have experienced discrimination when crossing the U.S. border and suggested that organizations representing Two-Spirit peoples be consulted to help address the complex issues that may arise in these border-crossing contexts. Partners also reiterated the importance of facilitating cross-border mobility for Indigenous Peoples whose homelands span the Canada–United States border. They emphasized the need for Canada to continue to recognize and give practical effect to the mobility rights reflected in the Jay Treaty. From the perspective of some partners, key substantive issues remain unaddressed, including their assertion of underlying rights associated passage across Canada’s international borders and use of Indigenous-issued identification documents. Proposed legislative solutions appear to have stalled and some have raised concerns that this Action Plan measure may no longer a priority.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CIRNAC

Shared Priority 53

Discussions related to R. v. Desautel decision

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The department noted that Canada is determining how to implement the Court's decision in a way that respects the rights of Indigenous Peoples. However, funding was not made available to support consultation with Indigenous Peoples on this initiative.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

CIRNAC noted responsive activities, such as providing information in fulfillment of enquiries, were the only consultation or cooperation activities conducted in 2025-26. It is not anticipated that CIRNAC will place emphasis on the implementation of this Action Plan measure in 2026-27.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Indigenous partners expressed that they have been unable to discuss this Action Plan measure with the Government of Canada to begin “exploratory discussions” (as mentioned in the full text of the measure). Partners have also indicated that the wording of this Action Plan measure is unclear, which they consider having contributed to limited follow-up and uncertainty regarding which federal officials or organizations are responsible for determining potential next steps. Partners also noted that if discussions are held, they should include all relevant rightsholders.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 54

First Nations and Inuit Policing Program (FNIPP)

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PS has undertaken targeted program modernization efforts, including amendments in June 2025 and February 2026 of the Terms and Conditions of the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program. A new funding stream was formalized for Community Safety Officer initiatives (see Shared Priority 55), marking the opportunity to transition from pilot to implementation, as a complement to policing activities in First Nations and Inuit communities. The Government of Canada continues to make significant and ongoing investments in the program, as well as the First Nations and Inuit Policing Facilities Program. These programs support related initiatives such as community consultative groups and police service governance committees, which are Indigenous-led and support consultation and cooperation at the community level. Challenges in fully utilizing available funding are being managed to maintain the integrity of the overall funding envelope, while respecting cost-share abilities of provincial and territorial partners and responding to emerging needs of the program recipients.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

During fiscal year 2025-26, PS engagement included participation in national and regional Indigenous policing events, such as the First Nations Police Governance Council Conference, and federal-provincial-territorial policing meetings. Work to modernize supports for First Nations and Inuit police services is expected to continue into 2026-27. Should First Nations and Inuit communities wish to discuss the implementation of their Community Tripartite Agreement, transition to a First Nations and Inuit police service, or undertake Community Safety Officer initiatives, PS is open and willing to meet and work together, alongside the province or territory of jurisdiction, to remove identified barriers and increase service delivery.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner noted that they invested significant resources in discussions with federal departments and agencies to support closing of gaps in frontline policing and additional policing within First Nations and Inuit communities, but progress has been limited due to an inconsistent approach. They noted that no work has advanced with PS since feedback was provided on legislation to recognize Indigenous policing as an essential service in May 2024. This partner also met with other federal departments and agencies, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 55

Community Safety Officer Programming

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In the fiscal year 2025-26, PS revised the Terms and Conditions of the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program, which among other changes, included formalizing a new funding stream (Stream 3 – Funding Agreement for Community Safety Officers) whereby Community Safety Officers are regulated through a provincial and territorial legislative framework to carry out enforcement related activities, which serve as a bridge between communties and local law enforcement, often responding to non-violent incidents and supporting wellness initiatives. This new Community Safety Officer program aims to: enhance community safety through prevention, early intervention, and outreach; provide a culturally grounded, community-led safety presence; and complement core policing services, especially in remote or underserved First Nations and Inuit communities.

Presently, PS is funding a discreet number of pilot-funded Community Safety Officer projects that are time limited, focusing on non-enforcement community safety activities. A few pilots have or are in the process of transitioning to the new Stream 3 program. In January 2026, PS offered additional funding to extend the pilot-funded initiatives for up to a maximum of two additional years (up to March 31, 2028) in order to support the wind down of certain projects and to provide additional time to assess the findings and lessons learned of these projects. Under the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program, communities can also access time-limited funding for training, capacity‑building, infrastructure repairs or renovations and other community‑designed initiatives through Stream 4 to improve community safety outcomes.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PS engaged regularly with First nations and Inuit partners through contribution agreement administration and regional events to ensure programs remain culturally informed and responsive to evolving community safety priorities and needs. Community Safety Officer-related issues and lessons learned from their activities are regularly discussed through various national and regional forums, including in several Indigenous policing and governance events that occurred throughout 2025-26. Engagement with communities reaffirmed strong demand, particularly in remote and isolated communities, for locally recruited and culturally grounded safety personnel. PS also continues to work with provinces and territories as they consider options to advance or explore Stream 3 funding for Community Safety Officers, supporting jurisdictions in assessing the potential transition from pilot activities toward regulated safety officer models under provincial or territorial legislation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 56

National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PS noted that in 2025-26, the Government of Canada continued to advance efforts under the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking. The department invested in trauma-informed, community-based projects to prevent trafficking and support victims, survivors and those at increased risk and continued to fund The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline, a confidential, multilingual, 24/7 service connecting victims and survivors to local supports, services and law enforcement. Anti-human trafficking qualitative focus group testing with Indigenous youth and parents of youth also continued throughout 2025, focusing on perceptions of marketing and advertising creative concepts. These engagement efforts reflect the ongoing commitment to develop inclusive, trauma-informed public awareness materials, which address the specific information needs of Indigenous communities on the topic of human trafficking.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

As of March 2026, the Chief Advisor has held over 130 stakeholder meetings, with each meeting often containing multiple stakeholders. Of these, 57 were with Indigenous partners, including a roundtable with multiple partners on November 4, 2025. These meetings included Indigenous organizations and governments in various provinces, such as British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec, the North and Atlantic Canada; and she also heard from Survivors, frontline workers, and community advocates, many of whom are Indigenous. In 2026-27, PS will continue to engage with Indigenous partners to support the implementation of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Calls for Justice related to human trafficking and to inform ongoing advice and recommendations to the Government of Canada.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 57

Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Since 2021, the Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund has funded 13 projects totalling $31,401,062, which remain active in 2025–26. Ongoing support is provided by the five-year allocation in Budget 2021 of $22,783,865 and a permanent $6 million annual allocation. Following a National Crime Prevention Strategy call for applications targeting at‑risk youth populations, new Indigenous-focused projects are being supported through the Crime Prevention Action Fund, while existing Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund projects continue unchanged. Six Indigenous-focused projects have been approved for implementation through the Crime Prevention Action Fund, beginning in 2026–27.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PS noted that, in monitoring contribution agreements and developing new projects, the department engaged in regular dialogue with Indigenous partners who were funded under the Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund or are seeking support under the fund. In addition, Indigenous partners provided reports, as required, for performance measurement processes. PS will continue working closely with Indigenous organizations as new Indigenous-focused projects begin implementation in 2026 -27.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 58

Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative supports Indigenous-led efforts and community-based solutions that identify and address the unique safety and wellbeing priorities of Indigenous communities in a holistic and culturally relevant manner through the creation of community safety plans. Since program inception, just over 100 community safety plans have been submitted, with 11 plans completed in 2025-26 and an additional 35 communities engaged in active processes awaiting completion. The process of completing a community safety plan is entirely community-driven, and the department makes a point of allowing communities to guide their own engagement and decide on the most appropriate ways to address their safety priorities. In addition, Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative officials are in regular contact with communities and receive feedback on what works, allowing an adaptable and flexible model of safety planning.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The department noted that consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples is built into the safety planning model through ongoing engagement and activities. The Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative consults and cooperates with Indigenous partners by hosting in-person and virtual Communities of Practice, bringing participants together to share their experiences with each other and with PS staff. While decision making about the program itself rests with PS, feedback from participating communities is taken into consideration in program implementation decision making.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted they had identified barriers within some programs and that the federal government had not provided any follow-up. This lack of consultation and cooperation hinders successful implementation in the delivery of these programs and services to support the safety of urban and rural Indigenous peoples.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 59

RCMP National Office of Investigative Standards and Practices

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, The National Office of Investigative Standards and Practices provided national oversight, guidance, and support to RCMP Divisions on complex and major case investigations, including those involving Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. The RCMP also funded Corporal-level positions in F Division (Saskatchewan) and K Division (Alberta) to ensure investigative continuity in Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls related files. Lastly, the National Office also maintained its role as a resource to Divisions seeking advice or review on active investigations and sustained efforts to promote investigative consistency and accountability across the organization.

Funding for this initiative supports two investigator positions located in F Division (Saskatchewan) and K Division (Alberta). These positions are embedded within investigative teams responsible for homicides and other serious violent crime investigations. By working directly in First Nation communities, or on investigations involving First Nation, Metis, or 2SLGBTQI+ individuals who are overrepresented as victims of crime, these investigators are uniquely placed to engage with community members, gather feedback, and ensure investigative approaches reflect local needs and cultural perspectives.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025–26 consultation and cooperation activities have been carried out through the two National Office of Investigative Standards and Practices funded investigator positions in F and K Divisions (as noted above). These investigators work directly with First Nation communities during major crime investigations, allowing for ongoing engagement with leadership, Elders, families, and service providers. Through this regular contact, they gather feedback, support culturally informed practices, and strengthen cooperation with Indigenous partners as part of their operational duties.

Indigenous victims' families in Saskatchewan have publicly expressed a desire for stronger cooperation among police agencies and for improvements in how future Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2 Spirit cases are managed. While this feedback did not create any direct barriers to the interactions, it highlights broader systemic expectations and reinforces the ongoing need to enhance multi-agency coordination, transparency, and culturally informed approaches in future work. Trauma informed practices must be central to all interactions with victims, families, and communities especially in MMIWG2S+ investigations and historical case reviews. Effective community outreach is relationship driven and requires regular engagement with Indigenous communities, tribal councils, leadership, and advocacy groups.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 60

Indigenous overrepresentation in correctional facilities

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025‑26, CSC advanced multiple initiatives to support culturally responsive rehabilitation and reintegration for Indigenous offenders. The Community Reintegration Fund has provided CSC with the opportunity to work with almost 40 Indigenous communities/organizations; assisting Indigenous offenders to address need areas, reduce risk and overcome barriers to successful reintegration. CSC approved 24 operational and maintenance transfers to communities and 12 contributions, providing support for offender reintegration, home community reintegration, and urban transition. CORCAN, a special operating agency within CSC, continued to provide Indigenous offenders with access to employment programs, vocational training, on‑the‑job training, and transitional employment in the community in some regions. CORCAN also partnered with Indigenous organizations, including an Indigenous social enterprise focused on training and employment, and continued to support housing needs in Indigenous communities in the Prairie region, while building employability skills with federally incarcerated Indigenous people. CSC also completed the IT Apprentice Training Pilot Project with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), with four female Indigenous supervised offenders successfully earning their apprentice certification. CSC continued to deliver and refine Foundations of Indigenous Corrections and Inuit Cultural Awareness training to strengthen staff cultural competency. The agency also developed guidance for staff when working with Elders and Spiritual Advisors, centralized Elder contracting to reduce administrative barriers, ensure equitable contracting practices, and recognize the professional and cultural expertise Elders bring to CSC, and used operational funding to continue to recruit Elders, Spiritual Advisors and Elder Helpers to meet Indigenous offender needs while monitoring expenditures in Elder services to identify service or funding gaps. CSC also continued to support consultation with the National Elders Working Group who provided direct advice and guidance to the Deputy Commissioner.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CSC is maintaining daily operational interaction with existing Section 81 partners, including Native Counselling Services of Alberta, Prince Albert Grand Council, Indigenous Women’s Healing Centre, Waseskun Healing Centre and O‑Chi‑Chak‑Ko-Sipi Healing Lodge to coordinate offender transfers and document progress and release planning. National and regional agency staff also worked to negotiate Memoranda of Understanding to support communities exploring new Section 81 opportunities. In 2025-26, CSC continued to engage Indigenous communities through smaller projects via the Community Reintegration Fund to build partnerships and clarify service delivery requirements, and to continue addressing key areas identified under the Strategic Action Plan to Expand Section 81 Agreements. For relevant Restorative Opportunities cases, restorative opportunity mediators conducted case‑by‑case consultations with Indigenous participants, Elders and community members to co‑design circle‑based processes, for example healing circles or releasing circles, that address harms, account for language and cultural needs, and ensure safety. Regional CSC staff also met with Indigenous communities, tribal councils and organizations to assess capacity, co-develop rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives, and maintain collaboration as services are delivered and reported on. CSC also advanced the Anijaarniq Holistic Inuit Strategy through the Anijaarniq Strategy Working Group, which met four times over the fiscal year. CSC held three National Indigenous Advisory Council meetings, which engaged community members in strategic discussions with the Commissioner. CSC regional offices will continue to work with Indigenous partners to recruit Elders and Spiritual Advisors to provide spiritual and cultural services for federally incarcerated Indigenous offenders.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted that constructive dialogue was held between themselves and CSC, including discussions related to increased Elder involvement at the departments facilities.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 61

Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative and Reintegration

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative has been renewed and expanded to better support 2SLGBTQI+ people and women, with 27 projects recommended for approval from a 2023 national call and several already underway or being finalized for 2025–26 and 2026–27. The program provides $12.7 million in ongoing annual funding and operates on an invitation-based, cooperative model where project design and delivery are led by recipients within program terms and conditions. Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative program officers continued to work with the project recipients in the development phase to soon begin implementing their alternatives to incarceration and reintegration projects, entering into nine contribution agreements in 2025-26.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

During 2025-26, the Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative worked with Indigenous communities to prepare projects for implementation, focusing on community-based alternatives to incarceration and reintegration support. Progress was delayed by the 2025 federal election, the caretaker period, and initial expenditure review restrictions, but resumed once these limitations were lifted. In 2026–27, the initiative plans to continue consulting and cooperating with Indigenous recipients as part of ongoing initiative activities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 62

Parole and conditional release

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PBC has offered Culturally Responsive Hearings for Indigenous peoples and non-Indigenous people committed to an Indigenous way of life for over 30 years, supported by ongoing Indigenous cultural responsiveness and competency training for Board members and staff, including updates in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Its policies require Board members to consider systemic and background factors affecting individuals’ involvement in the criminal justice system and to take into account culturally appropriate community alternatives when making decisions for Indigenous peoples.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

The Chairperson's Indigenous Circle provides information, insight, and strategic advice to the PBC on improving its efficiency and effectiveness in addressing the needs of Indigenous offenders, victims, and communities. Its composition includes several Indigenous community leaders who are contracted to participate in an advisory capacity. This forum meets annually and continues to support Indigenous-related policy development and operational improvements through ongoing engagement between government and community partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 63

Indigenous Emergency Management Working Group

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, the federally led Indigenous Emergency Management Working Group chaired by PS convened once and laid the foundation for a co-developed 2026 Workplan to advance shared Emergency Management priorities, as well as key action items from the November 2025 meeting of federal-provincial-territorial Ministers and National Indigenous Organization Leaders. The 2025 Working Group meeting also involved updates on federal emergency management initiatives, including Canada's Flood Risk Finder, Search and Rescue funding opportunities, and the Arctic and Northern Search and Rescue Roundtable. Additionally, members discussed priorities following a severe wildfire season affecting many Indigenous communities, especially in the Prairies. The department noted that a reduced frequency of meetings was attributed to a pause in federal engagement activities, a new government, and shifting federal priorities, and the initiative currently operates without dedicated funding and relies on existing internal resources. Short-term funding that previously supported some Indigenous partners’ participation has ended, and efforts to identify alternative funding sources are still underway.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PS noted that Indigenous partners contributed to Working Group agendas and priorities, but faced limitations such as lack of dedicated funding, and uncertainty around federal priorities. Collaboration practices emphasized co-developing agendas, using a distinctions-based approach, and maintaining both bilateral and multilateral relationships to support strong partnerships. For future consultation and cooperation opportunities, the Indigenous Emergency Management Working Group will focus on implementing federal action items from the November 2025 meeting, ensuring alignment with co-developed priorities and applying a distinctions-based approach to areas such as Emergency Management Strategy Renewal, evacuation planning, and search and rescue.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner acknowledged efforts to improve emergency management through senior level working groups. However, they pointed to the need for other interventions, like emergency training capacity for youth and adequate funding for Indigenous partners to implement emergency notification systems similar to other levels of government.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CIRNAC, ISC

Shared Priority 64

National security information-sharing

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Some advances occurred in 2025-26 with First Nations in the Yukon, First Nations police services in Ontario, and First Nations partner organizations in the Northwest Territories. CSIS noted that some of the delays can be attributed to limited interest from First Nations partners due to competing priorities, historic negative experiences with CSIS, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Government of Canada as a whole, and ongoing media reporting on past CSIS investigations into Indigenous Peoples.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CSIS conducted multiple outreach and information-sharing activities with First Nations and Indigenous policing partners across Yukon, Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Quebec, and Ontario. These activities included threat briefings, national security presentations, youth engagement visits, and collaboration on initiatives such as a Provincial Indigenous Crime and Analysis investigator position and organizational amalgamation support. The work faced limitations due to the limited capacity of both partners and the CSIS team to conduct outreach and build relationships across First Nations.

Plans for 2026–27 include building on efforts by deepening existing relationships; attempting to establish new ones (for example in Manitoba and Saskatchewan); increasing travel to Indigenous and Northern regions; sharing national security information; providing additional threat briefings; and implementing UN Declaration Act Action Plan measures.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some Métis partners noted they participated in engagement sessions with CSIS to discuss opportunities to enhance awareness of national security issues and support the development of institutional relationships.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 65

Firearms legislation and section 35 Aboriginal rights

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Within 2025-26, engagement efforts and activities have primarily focused on the implementation of firearms harm reduction measures from former Bill C-21, including to raise awareness and seek feedback on draft regulations regarding the definition of protection order and competent authority. These activities were largely a continuation of efforts in 2024-25. Engagement efforts also included other focused discussions to build awareness of the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program, including how to participate and resources available with a focus on the North, facilitate exchanges on the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s Canadian Firearm Program's review of regulatory services in the North, support planning for distinctions-based engagement for the upcoming firearms classification regime review, participate in modern treaty negotiations and explore interest and invite regularized engagement to discuss and collaborate on initiatives in the medium to long term. Methods of engagement ranged from bilateral meetings, technical briefings, to information sharing through email and the distrubtion of reference materials.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In support of the activities described above, consultation efforts focused on engaging with National Indigenous Organizations, Modern Treaty and Self Government Agreement Holders, and other groups previously engaged by PS during the 2024-25 fiscal year. This included bilateral discussions with a number of organizations (Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami; Assembly of First Nations; Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated; Inuvialuit Regional Corporation; Tla’Amin Nation; Hunting, Fishing, Trapping Coordinating Committee; Kivalliq Inuit Association; Qikiqtani Inuit Association, Métis National Council; Otipemisiwak Métis Government; Métis Nation of Ontario) on regulatory development and implementation of mandatory licence revocation and ineligibility and how to participate in the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program. New and upcoming initiatives include the firearms classification regime review including dedicated distinctions-based consutlations with Indigenous peoples and policy work to support the implementation of modern treaties and self-government agreements.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

In 2025-26, Métis partners emphasized the importance of meaningful engagement between Canada and Métis governments regarding federal firearms legislation, including the reformation of the Firearms Advisory Committee. Métis representatives raised the need for Canada to consult and cooperate directly with Métis governments to ensure that the perspectives, rights, and practical realities of Métis citizens are properly considered in the development and implementation of firearm-related laws and policies. Additionally, Métis partners identified that funding opportunities meant to support participation in awareness initiatives were not sufficient and thus inhibited meaningful participation in the development of such initiatives.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 66

Participation in decision-making, including articles 18 and 19

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

JUS noted that both a Director General-level working group and a technical working group were established to support the implementation of this Action Plan measure. The working groups have also established connections with teams working on related Action Plan measures, such as Shared Priority 1 and Shared Priority 32.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners has not taken place during 2025-26. However, work is underway to analyze information and advice that Indigenous partners have previously shared on participation in decision-making. This information is being collected from sources such as evidence submitted to parliamentary committees, reports from Indigenous Partner Fund submissions, and key takeaways from partner meetings. Implementing this Action Plan measure in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners is fundamental. At this early planning stage, an initial work plan is still under development.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Partners see potential in Shared Priority 66 to strengthen consultation approaches and enhance participation in decision-making and co-development practices. However, some partners would also like this Action Plan measure to connect directly to treaty implementation and establish permanent mechanisms with standing mandates, stable funding, and clear authorities. One partner recommends that Canada implement Article 18 of the UN Declaration in all governance matters, for example, by inviting Indigenous Peoples to First Ministers' and G7 meetings. Some partners indicated their participation in the Indigenous-Crown Steering Committee on the renewal of the federal consultation and accommodation guidelines. Areas for further improvement of the renewed guidelines include but are not limited to integrating joint decision-making, capturing more federal activities that require consultation, and adequately incorporating UN Declaration principles.

Some Métis partners provided guidance on Shared Priority 66, as well as Shared Priority 32 regarding free, prior and informed consent and economic participation mechanisms. With funding from NRCan, Métis governments could engage early to define what good-faith consultation and cooperation should look like in major resource projects, especially when multiple regulators and jurisdictions are involved, and to emphasize the importance of integrating Métis knowledge into project planning. Although reduced funding has limited engagement capacity, partners remained committed to collaborating with Canada and supporting Métis-specific, equitable participation in natural resource initiatives. Additionally, some First Nation partners advocated for the creation of a body which would ensure Indigenous partners have decisional jurisdiction in resource governance, not just advisory powers.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CIRNAC, CNSC, CRA, ECCC, ISC, JUS, NRCan, TC

Shared Priority 67

Co-development and self-determination

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Work to date has focused on CIRNAC advancing concrete measures co-developed under the permanent bilateral mechanism processes, such as the Inuit Nunangat Policy and distinctions-based co-development principles. The Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee continued to create a space for shared priority-setting, joint decision-making, and co-development of policies and initiatives affecting Inuit, through its Senior Officials and Leaders tables in 2025. Inuit and CIRNAC are co-developing an Inuit Nunangat Policy guidance document to further support other government departments and agencies in implementing the policy. CIRNAC also noted that with the changes in composition of members of the Métis National Council, work to finalize the Métis Co-development Principles was paused in 2025-26. CIRNAC meets bilaterally with Métis partners and discussions help inform the development of Canada’s policies and programs. These regular bilateral meetings are the primary fora for Métis partners to share their vision for co-development until such a time as a collaborative approach to developing broaderco-development principles can be identified by Métis partners.

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and Procurement Assistance Canada continued to participate in the Atlantic Indigenous Development Initiative. The initiative helped Indigenous partners in the Atlantic region understand the supply available from Indigenous businesses, and the demand of federal departments and agencies for procurement increased the awareness and understanding of the federal procurement process. Through delivery of the Northern Isolated Community Initiatives Fund in the Nunatsiavut region of Labrador, ACOA continues to engage with the Nunatsiavut Government to advance food-related initiatives that strengthen and diversify economic activity, in line with their self-identified priorities.

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) continued to implement an Action Plan to better reflect Northern and Indigenous community needs and realities by adapting its regular programs and delivery parameters. Through the Northern Isolated Community Initiatives Fund, CED advanced food security solutions in partnership with Indigenous organizations, including supporting Makivvik Corporation to develop a community seafood harvesting and processing facility in Kangirsuk, covering costs relating to a study aiming at determining the feasibility of the building construction and expansion as well as specialized processing, storage, and distribution equipment. CED is also improving Indigenous access to its programs by developing tailored communication tools, expanding internal training and awareness, and mobilizing its Business Information Directorate.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) used co-development approaches with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners to shape program frameworks, strategies, and advisory structures. The agency advanced the Aboriginal Head Start in Urban and Northern Communities Results Framework with the National Aboriginal Head Start Council. PHAC also supported the Assembly of First Nations and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami in developing a distinctions-based approach to the national Tuberculosis Elimination Strategy. Across these initiatives, PHAC’s efforts focused on Indigenous-led engagement, shared decision-making, and sustained collaboration with Indigenous partners.

Transport Canada (TC) developed an internal departmental assessment template to determine potential intersections or inconsistencies between legislative and regulatory proposals and the Declaration and how to bring them into alignment with the UN Declaration Act. The department continues to enhance consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples in order to ensure regulatory and legislative initiatives are in alignment with the Declaration. This includes sharing a consistent approach through mechanisms such as the Inuit Nunangat–Transport Canada Bilateral Table, and coordination of engagement opportunities and advice to file leads through our departmental Engagement Team.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CIRNAC’s work with Indigenous partners focused on advancing co-developed measures and maintaining dialogue despite several pauses in formal mechanisms. Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the four Inuit treaty organizations continued working with the department on an Inuit Nunangat Policy guidance document, supported by weekly drafting sessions that help to build a shared understanding of implementation. The Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee was identified as the main forum to engage and consult Inuit on major projects, leading to major projects being added to the July 2025 Prime Minister meeting agenda with Inuit. Canada-Assembly of First Nations Permanent Bilateral Mechanism has been on pause since Summer 2024. The Assembly of First Nations has been prioritizing other key activities to serve First Nations partners over continuing to advance the co-development principles. CIRNAC noted that although progress on co-development principles with First Nations and Métis partners has been delayed, Canada continues direct bilateral discussions with each Métis partner to ensure their views and priorities inform Canada’s policies and programs.

In the context of the Atlantic Indigenous Development Initiative, ACOA noted that, in collaboration with the leads, ISC and Procurement Assistance Canada, consultation and cooperation took place with Indigenous and other federal partners within 2025-26, during which four priority areas were addressed, including capacity, access to capital, project size, and process complexity.

CED’s work with Indigenous partners in Nunavik focused on sustained, relationship‑based engagement. In April 2025, the Business Office Director and an advisor travelled to Kuujjuaq for a mining workshop, meeting economic, community, and tourism leaders, building ties with the Qiniqtiq Landholding Corporation of Kangiqsualujjuaq, conducting a field tour with the Nunavik Tourism Association Executive Director, and advancing two new Northern Isolated Community Initiatives Fund projects. In September 2025, multi‑day meetings in Kangiqsualujjuaq deepened understanding of social and economic realities. Implementation continued through ongoing engagement and planned participation in the Nunavik Tourism Association’s annual general meeting in March 2026.

PHAC worked with Indigenous partners through bilateral and group engagement to co-develop the participation and design of the Indigenous Public Health Advisory Circle and to explore Indigenous-led contributions to national immunization guidance. Ongoing engagement supported the Aboriginal Head Start in Urban and Northern Communities program through regular meetings and surveys to refine administrative processes in line with community priorities and self-determination. PHAC also collaborated with Indigenous partners on the tuberculosis elimination strategy through bilateral discussions, task group meetings, and iterative feedback on draft documents to shape the strategy’s development and approval.

TC’s Engagement Opportunities Bulletin is issued quarterly to provide information to over 1575 individuals representing approximately 893 Indigenous nations, organizations, governments and communities nationally. Meaningful engagement is also coordinated through regional Indigenous Relations Units throughout the development of initiatives.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Partners see potential in this Action Plan measure to strengthen consultation and cooperation approaches, and enhance participation in decision-making and co-development practices. However, some partners would also like this Action plan measure to connect directly to treaty implementation and establish permanent mechanisms with standing mandates, stable funding, and clear authorities. One partner recommends that Canada implement Article 18 of the UN Declaration in all governance matters, for example, by inviting Indigenous Peoples to First Ministers and G7 meetings. Some Métis partners indicated concerns with the consultation and cooperation processes during the reporting period, noting shortened timelines for input and feedback that did not respect Métis governance processes and authorities, engaging only through technical briefings or roundtables, or providing no notice at all. Lastly, some partners indicated their participation in the Indigenous-Crown Steering Committee on the renewal of the federal consultation and accommodation guidelines. Areas for further improvement of the renewed guidelines include but are not limited to integrating joint decision-making, capturing more federal activities that require consultation, and adequately incorporating UN Declaration principles.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: ACOA, CED, PHAC, TC

Shared Priority 68

Participation in decision-making related to consultation and accommodation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

CIRNAC noted that initial work to establish the Indigenous Advisory Committee has been started, including an environmental scan of existing structures within Canada and analysis of the terms of reference of pre-established Indigenous advisory bodies, best practices, and lessons learned. The Consultation and Accommodation Unit has collaborated with 5 Indigenous communities to co-develop and co-validate Aboriginal and Treaty Rights Information System profiles that better describe their communities and consultation needs. This work has focused on validating information directly with Indigenous partners to ensure that information published reflects what communities identify as accurate, relevant, and important to share. CIRNAC, on behalf of Canada, with support from the Justice Canada, also leads the co-development of consultation protocols and resource centres with Indigenous partners through the Federal Initiative on Consultation. There are currently 13 consultation protocols and eight resource centres in place; collectively, these mechanisms provide consultation capacity support to more than 400 Indigenous governments, communities, and organizations in Canada. Five additional protocols are in active co-development, with varying timelines for completion. CIRNAC remains committed to increasing the government's respect for and reliance on Indigenous advice.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, the Consultation and Accommodation Unit within CIRNAC worked with several Indigenous partners on profile co-development for the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights Information System. This included responding to community requests to update consultation-relevant information, ensuring transparency and accessibility. The Unit also hosted information booths in Toronto and Thunder Bay during engagement sessions on the federal consultation guidelines renewal and the Indigenous Services Canada Ontario Joint Gathering. This provided opportunities for direct dialogue with Indigenous community members about the information included in the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights Information System. The Consultation and Accommodation Unit plans to continue consulting and cooperating with Indigenous partners in 2026-27 to advance the System, with engagement efforts remaining community-driven, fostering relationships and supporting Indigenous self-determination. CIRNAC also noted work on the co-development and implementation of consultation protocols and resource centres with Indigenous partners. The department and partners under this Initiative have their own internal processes, including distinct approval processes. Ensuring alignment between processes can be challenging and can add delays in the co-development of consultation protocols and the establishment of resource centres.

As the Indigenous Advisory Committee is still in the planning phase, CIRNAC will initiate outreach to potential Indigenous committee members who have experience in consultation once funding is identified.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Partners see potential in this Action Plan measure to strengthen consultation and cooperation approaches, and enhance participation in decision-making and co-development practices. However, some partners would also like this Action plan measure to connect directly to treaty implementation and establish permanent mechanisms with standing mandates, stable funding, and clear authorities. One partner recommends that Canada implement Article 18 of the UN Declaration in all governance matters, for example, by inviting Indigenous Peoples to First Ministers' and G7 meetings. Some partners indicated their participation in the Indigenous-Crown Steering Committee on the renewal of the federal consultation and accommodation guidelines. Areas for further improvement of the renewed guidelines include but are not limited to integrating joint decision-making, capturing more federal activities that require consultation, and adequately incorporating UN Declaration principles.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 69

Relationship agreements with Indigenous Women’s Organizations

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, CIRNAC advanced this Action Plan measure through the implementation of relationship agreements as a delivery mechanism with the Native Women's Association of Canada, Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, and Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak. These relationship agreements operationalized a gender-based and distinctions-aware approach to support the equality rights and inclusion of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ people, consistent with Articles 21(1) and 21(2) of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Funding supported concrete organizational capacity, governance, leadership, and policy engagement activities, including Pauktuutit's internal priority-setting work to inform the development of a new Strategic Plan and the continued implementation of a two-year Inuit women's leadership initiative focused on strengthening Board capacity and engagement with Inuit women across Inuit Nunangat. Through its relationship agreement with the Native Women's Association of Canada, CIRNAC supported internal governance and strategic planning work and strengthened the capacity of grassroots affiliates to participate in priority-setting discussions informed by community-level engagement with Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ people. In parallel, the department supported Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak's participation in parliamentary committees and federal policy processes, strengthening Métis women's contributions to federal decision-making.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

As noted above, engagement and cooperation occurred on an ongoing basis through the established relationship agreements. These agreements provided a structure mechanism for regular engagement and dialogue, supporting the identified priorities of the organizations. Consultation and cooperation activities were influenced by organizational capacity constraints, both within the department and among partner organizations, which can affect the pace and scope of engagement. The need to balance multiple priorities across organizations and federal processes also posed challenges to expanding engagement beyond existing relationship agreement activities. CIRNAC plans to continue engagement and collaboration through ongoing relationship agreements supporting sustained engagement with Indigenous women's organizations. Planned activities include identifying priority focus areas and establishing a schedule of meetings to advance a collaborative work plan with clear objectives and measurable outcomes.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 70

Indigenous women’s and 2SLGBTQI+ grassroots organizations

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, over $8 million in funding supported 33 projects for Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQI+ grassroots organizations across Canada through the Supporting Indigenous Women's and 2SLGBTQI+ Organizations Program. This supported initiatives that amplified and advanced grassroots priorities and perspectives, increased community-level engagement, strengthened leadership and governance capacity, and contributed to research and policy-relevant work reflecting the diverse interests of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Funding is provided to ensure stability to organizations, allowing for certainty for planned activities to advance expected results.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, consultation and cooperation occurred through community-based, Indigenous-led engagement activities supported under the Indigenous Women's and 2SLGBTQI+ Organizations program. Grassroots Indigenous women’s and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations engaged community members to identify priorities grounded in lived experience and brought forward those perspectives through research, analysis, advocacy, and knowledge-sharing activities. These activities supported the inclusion of grassroots voices in federal policy and program discussions. The scope and pace of consultation and cooperation were influenced by capacity constraints at the grassroots level, including the need to balance community engagement with organizational sustainability. Geographic dispersion and resource limitations can also affect the extent of engagement activities within a single fiscal year. These activities reinforced that flexible, community-driven funding supports more meaningful consultation and cooperation. Enabling grassroots organizations to design engagement approaches that reflect local contexts and priorities strengthens the quality and relevance of perspectives brought forward to inform federal policy and program development.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner noted that organizations should be consulted directly on all initiatives related to Shared Priority 70. While other organizations may have Two-Spirit or allied staff involved, only Two-Spirit-led organizations can authentically provide the lived experiences, cultural knowledge, and community perspectives necessary to guide this work. Direct consultation ensures that strategies are truly informed by the needs, safety, and priorities of Two-Spirit peoples.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 71

Strengthening Indigenous engagement across public health and health care systems

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISC’s Indigenous Health Equity Fund is continuing to support First Nation, Inuit, and Métis communities to address gaps in accessing quality and culturally safe health services. For some communities, this funding is supporting discussions with their respective provincial and territorial governments to increase access to health services. For instance, Eskasoni First Nation is planning to partner with the Government of Nova Scotia to expand the Health Centre to improve access to mental wellness services, including a mental health nurse, substance use wraparound supports, harm reduction and crisis response. In addition, Samson Cree Nation is planning to engage with Alberta's Primary Health Networks to establish collaborative partnerships and explore cost-sharing opportunities aimed at improving access to comprehensive health services for Samson Cree Nation members, including access to specialized health services such as chronic disease management, mental health supports, and preventive care.

Through the Indigenous Relations Unit, HC has engaged with National Indigenous Organizations and interested Regional Indigenous Organizations on several initiatives. These include the National Eye Care Framework, the legislative review of the Tobacco and Vaping Products Act, the Health Human Resources Best Brains Exchange application, the Emergency Treatment Fund Call for Proposals, the palliative care awareness campaign, United Nations and World Health Organization draft Action Plans and Strategies, and the Person with Living and Lived Experience Survey: Substance Use Among Racialized and Indigenous Youth.

PHAC, through intergovernmental mechanisms, has advanced Indigenous public health priorities by strengthening bilateral and trilateral engagement. Examples include advancing work through the Pan-Canadian Public Health Network and its sub-committees, including the Communicable and Infectious Disease Steering Committee and the Public Health Data Steering Committee. These provide a key forum for advancing Indigenous public health priorities, strengthening federal, provincial, territorial, and Indigenous collaboration and supporting culturally appropriate and transparent federal-provincial-territorial health data commitments that reflect Indigenous perspectives.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

ISC officials continue to work with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners on the implementation of the Indigenous Health Equity Fund. In 2025-26, this included outreach to support the development and implementation of plans and progress reporting. Consultation and cooperation activities varied by region based on partner capacity, existing governance structures, and regional engagement mechanisms. In some regions, engagement was effectively supported through established forums such as Health Directors’ meetings, while in others, consultations required more individualized, community-level engagement. ISC officials will continue to engage with First Nations, Inuit and Metis leadership on the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, including ongoing discussions on implementation as well as engagement on a strategy for reporting on progress.

HC, through the bilateral engagement efforts, shared new and ongoing work with Indigenous partners to allow for flexible arrangements for input on initiatives in a way that respects the inherent rights of Indigenous Peoples. In addition, in response to the World Health Organizations development of a Global Plan of Action on the Health of Indigenous Peoples, HC has encouraged Indigenous partners to engage directly with the organization, while some partners have chosen to wait for web consultations to begin in 2026. HC has also prepared a summary of the Government of Canada’s reaction to the draft plan to share with Indigenous partners.

As noted above, PHAC has engaged with Indigenous partners on key activities through intergovernmental mechanisms and bilateral relationship-building to support Indigenous public health priorities. The agency plans to continue engagement with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners to maintain and strengthen Indigenous representation at federal-provincial-territorial working groups and tables and to sustain regular bilateral relationship-building. However, PHAC noted that Indigenous partners often have limited capacity given the volume of priorities and engagement requests.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 72

International issues and United Nations system

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Activities in 2025-26 were largely focused on internal coordination within the federal government and planning for future work. This included meeting with the UN Declaration Implementation Secretariat at Justice Canada and other federal departments to discuss best practices for Action Plan measure specific working groups, preparation for engaging Indigenous peoples, and planning for an interdepartmental working group. GAC is also engaged with the Secretariat to seek guidance on engaging Indigenous Peoples and co-developing policy guidelines for Indigenous engagement on international issues. Significant engagement and policy work are required in advance of discussions on funding requirements.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Indigenous partners were engaged at earlier stages of advancing this Action Plan measure and will continue to be involved as work progresses. This year focused largely on internal coordination within the federal government and planning for future work. GAC has been able to engage Indigenous Peoples on international issues that affect them in the context of the Canada’s G7 Presidency, the Indo-Pacific Strategy and Arctic Strategy, as well as through the new Arctic Ambassador who is conducting significant domestic outreach.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner pointed to the need to expeditously implement the 10 actions in the Commonwealth Sport Lək ̓ʷəŋən Declaration on Reconciliation and Partnership with Indigenous Peoples.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 73

UNDA engagement principles in policy and program documents

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025–26, PCH continued implementing its 2024–27 Reconciliation Action Plan, advancing sustained and strategic actions aligned with the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous-identified priorities. Under Pillar 1: Relationship Building, the department strengthened internal capacity by developing a Reconciliation Learning Road Map to support organizational cultural competency, delivering targeted learning and dialogue activities, and establishing an ongoing Reconciliation Community of Practice to foster engagement and knowledge-sharing across all levels of the organization.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

The department noted that no consultation and cooperation was not required for this Action Plan measure. The UN Declaration Act engagement principles were developed with Indigenous partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 74

Advancing economic reconciliation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISC worked with nine Indigenous partners to advance Indigenous‑led economic reconciliationand support partner-identified economic priorities. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis policy leads led processes to articulate their economic priorities and design related policy initiatives. Work proceeded through Indigenous designed engagement plans and policy proposal processes, with ISC providing ongoing support and coordination rather than leading consultations themselves. Some partners developed economic reconciliation strategies, while others implemented key short-term economic projects that responded to urgent needs in the areas of procurement, business development, and participation in major projects in natural resources and infrastructure sectors. Contribution agreements that enabled Indigenous led policy development and engagement have concluded, with no additional funding confirmed to continue this specific initiative.

Budget 2025 tasked ISC with exploring the development of a bid bonding and surety access pilot, one of the 16 proposals submitted through the economic reconciliation co-development process. Throughout 2026, ISC has been working to engage closely with the proposal proponent, the First Nations Finance Authority, to explore a bonding and surety pilot to address barriers faced by First Nations contractors.

The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) supported Indigenous food security and sovereignty in the territories through the Northern Isolated Community Initiatives Fund, prioritizing projects that address food insecurity in Indigenous communities. Investments through the Fund helped Indigenous and other northern partners develop and expand food and agriculture initiatives to strengthen local economies. CanNor also continued ongoing programs that directly benefit Indigenous peoples, including the Northern Indigenous Economic Opportunities Program, which supports Indigenous business and community economic development. Through the Northern Projects Management Office, CanNor worked with Indigenous partners on major project reviews.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) supported Indigenous employees through the Information Technology Apprenticeship Program by creating a dedicated SharePoint hub, organizing networking opportunities, and providing one‑on‑one support to apprentices. The Agency also advanced economic reconciliation via procurement by maintaining a default Indigenous set‑aside for information technology end‑user devices, and awarding a national multi-year office chair contract to an Indigenous supplier.

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) collaborated with federal departments and Indigenous organizations to enhance the socio-economic outcomes of Indigenous communities in Atlantic Canada. The Agency supports workforce development by funding training and internship opportunities that help Indigenous employees access higher-income occupations. This includes partnerships with organizations such as the Joint Economic Development Initiative, the Mi'kmaw Economic Benefits Office, and Ulnooweg Development Group. In Labrador, ACOA also supports the Nunatsiavut Business Centre, further fostering Indigenous business growth and economic development.

Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan) supported economic reconciliation by implementing an agency-wide policy framework that integrates Indigenous inclusion into the agency's operations and delivery of its mandate. In 2025-26, PacifiCan engaged and built relationships with Indigenous peoples across B.C. and partnered with Indigenous organizations to support Indigenous-led skills and business development in the region. In addition to directly supporting Indigenous businesses, PacifiCan also increased Indigenous inclusion capacity in the Agency through ongoing review and strengthening of internal processes and tools and support for ongoing staff training. It also developed targeted communication and information for Indigenous clients, including a dedicated webpage and email address and a clear statement of the Agency’s areas of focus for Indigenous economic development.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

ISC held bi-weekly operational calls with the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre to discuss challenges and priorities, as well propose collaborative approaches to addressing any issues that may arise within the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management. The department also held a two-day in-person strategic planning session with the Resource Centre. There will be continued consultation and cooperation on measures to strengthen support for First Nations, including exploring processes to streamline the land code developmental phase and the development of a new round of amendments to the Framework Agreement that will continue the process of returning greater jurisdiction and control over reserve lands to First Nations. The department funded these partners to develop a training certificate program in land management designed specifically for land code communities as recommended by the First nations Financial Management Board's Roadmap Project. ISC also transferred the administration of funding for environmental site assessments for First Nations developing land codes to the Resource Centre. In addition, 4 First Nations ratified land codes, meaning there are now a total of 123 First Nations managing their reserve lands outside of the Indian Act and at the speed of business according to their communities’ priorities.

ISC continued to strengthen relationships with distinctions-based Indigenous partners built via the economic reconciliation policy process. During this reporting period, ISC expanded engagement with economic development and trade groups within these organizations, and worked collaboratively to adjust implementation and funding approaches in response to emerging and evolving partner-identified economic priorities. ISC also continued working closely with the First Nations Financial Authority, to explore a bonding and surety pilot to address barriers faced by First Nations contractors.

CanNor’s work with Indigenous partners focused on supporting meaningful participation across the Agency’s programs and initiatives. CanNor’s Northern Project Management Office facilitated consultation processes for impact assessments of major projects across the territories. Indigenous governments and organizations were engaged with the Office during impact assessments of major projects including initial notifications, and direct meetings and correspondence throughout all stages of impact assessment, particularly the decision-making phases. With federal decision-makers, the Northern Project Management Office collaboratively developed Indigenous issues trackers, “What We Heard” reports summarising concerns voiced at community meetings, and decision-related documents to incorporate Indigenous issues and interests, potential impacts to rights, mitigations and accommodations, into the decision rationale for a project.

CRA had general engagements with National Indigenous Organizations this year and is planning to continue and increase their frequency in 2026-27. These engagements cover a broad range of topics and are leading to the creation of joint working groups on initiatives of mutual interest, such as procurement and research, that will facilitate consultation and foster collaboration with Indigenous partners.

By capitalizing on its extensive regional footprint, and its well-established network of Indigenous contacts, ACOA maintained consistent and proactive engagement. This approach ensured the ongoing promotion of its programs and initiatives tailored to the unique needs and goals of Indigenous communities, further solidifying its role as a trusted partner in advancing Indigenous economic development within the region.

PacifiCan undertook proactive bilateral engagement with a variety of Indigenous partners, guided by an Indigenous engagement plan. The engagement focused on building relationships with Indigenous peoples across British Columbia and informing the Agency’s approach to Indigenous inclusion in key regional economic opportunities, such as major projects, defence procurement and supply chains.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Funding was provided under ISC’s Economic Reconciliation Framework continued into 2025-26 to support proposals based on Métis economic reconciliation priorities, however no formal mechanism existed for submitting proposals under this framework. To maintain progress, partners worked with the Métis Nation Technical Committee on Economic Development to identify shared priorities and develop the most effective approach to advancing proposals in line with Métis self-determination, national economic objectives, and the broader goals of economic reconciliation.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: ACOA, CanNor, CRA, PacifiCan

Shared Priority 75

Poverty Reduction Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Upon the release of Opportunity for All – Canada's First Poverty Reduction Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to co-developing distinctions-based indicators of poverty and well-being. In addition to the collaborative work with Métis on Métis indicators of poverty outlined in reporting under Métis Priority 12, ESDC continued to collaborate with First Nations leadership through the governance structures supported by the Assembly of First Nations, as well as Inuit leadership through through the governance structures supported by Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami.

In December 2025 Chiefs in Council called upon Indigenous Services Canada to flow investments to the First Nations Information Governance Centre to work with its regional partners to expand First Nations leadership mandated and governed data collection, management and analysis to inform decisions. Indicators to be collected included those from the First Nations Indicators of Poverty and Well‑being Report.

The Inuit Nunangat Poverty Reduction Strategy was developed with Inuit through Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami collaboration mechanisms and through the Inuit Crown Partnership Committee. The strategy and related indicators are currently pending approval by Inuit leadership.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Collaboration on the distinctions based indicators of poverty and well-being is occuring concurrently across multiple Crown-Indigenous relations fora. As indicators are largely identified, collaboration efforts are now focused on data collection, management and analysis that respect data sovereignty, while ensuring data can inform priorities and investments for Indigenous government and the Government of Canada. In 2025, The First Nations’ Poverty and Wellness Indicator Framework was presented to senior departmental officials from across the Government of Canada, as part of a Working Group on Quality-of-Life Measurement and Implementation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 76

Increased access to federal benefits and programs

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ESDC noted that relationships established through Service Canada’s Community Outreach and Liaison Services network continue to contribute to informing service delivery improvements, including service and benefits delivery modernization initiatives. Additional supports are available to communities included in the Outreach Support Centre and the Service Referral Initiative, which enable warm transfers and customized assistance for clients facing access barriers. The Reaching All Canadians Strategy also continued to collaborate with Indigenous partners to design and implement innovative approaches to address barriers experienced by Indigenous peoples in accessing federal services and benefits.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

During 2025–26, the Community Outreach and Liaison Service continued engagement with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across regions. This included identifying community needs, conducting in‑person visits and virtual outreach, and supporting individuals in rural, remote, and urban settings through community organizations. Community Outreach and Liaison Service also collaborated with local Indigenous service providers and, where appropriate, with federal, provincial, and territorial partners to support bundled service delivery. Relationships established through the Community Outreach and Liaison Service network will continue to inform service delivery improvements, including service and benefits delivery modernization initiatives.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 77

Increasing Indigenous women’s entrepreneurship

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISC noted that since the implementation of the Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurs Initiative in March 2022, Indigenous Financial Institutions and Métis Capital Corporations issued 330 micro-loans to enable Indigenous women to start up or expand their micro-businesses in a low-risk environment. The Indigenous delivery partners also provided 195 workshops with 2,900 participants. Budget 2024 included funding for 5 years for the Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurs Initiative under the broader Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program funding, with ISC expected to request additional funding when the current allocation sunsets.

The Government of Canada is commited to increasing Indigenous women’s entrepreneurship. For example, to help to advance this priority, ACOA, playing a supporting role, continued to implement the Indigenous Business Development components of the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program, enabling Indigenous-owned and led businesses to access resources needed for growth and success. ACOA's funding for various projects is supported by engagement and cooperation with Indigenous partners and by using existing resources.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

ISC’s Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneurship initiative is part of a devolved program, managed through a collaborative co-governance model with Indigenous partners, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association and Métis Capital Corporations. Consultation and cooperation are built into the program and are an ongoing process. An ISC liaison team works closely with Indigenous partners to provide ongoing support.

ACOA supports the maintained, consistent, and proactive relationships with Indigenous partners and clients across Atlantic Canada, capitalizing on its extensive regional footprint, and its well-established network of Indigenous contacts. This approach ensured ongoing promotion of programs and initiatives tailored to the unique needs and goals of Indigenous communities, further solidifying its supportive role as a trusted partner in advancing Indigenous economic development within the region. ACOA will continue to engage Indigenous partners on a regular basis throughout the year.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: ACOA

Shared Priority 78

Participation in gaming industry

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

On November 20, 2025, Senator Scott Tannas (Canadian Senators Group) introduced Bill S-241, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Indian Act, which would amend the Criminal Code and the Indian Act to grant First Nations exclusive authority to conduct and manage gaming on reserve lands. By March 2026, Bill S-241 completed Second Reading in the Senate and is waiting review by the Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs. Justice officials engaged with leaders and organizations on the issue of Indigenous gaming that have expressed interest (e.g., with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs).

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners on legislative reform would need to occur going forward. Timing and sequencing may depend in part on Indigenous perspectives on Bill S-241.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner expressed concern with the lack of a timeline to establish a mandate to advance this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 79

Minimum federal contracts to Indigenous businesses

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PSPC expanded Indigenous economic participation in federal procurement by reducing barriers, implementing Indigenous-focused procurement measures, and providing extensive outreach and support to Indigenous suppliers. The department used targeted clauses, reduce barriers related to bid and performance bonding, supported collaborative procurement, leveraged Indigenous Participation Plans on major projects, and tracked financial commitments and benefits to Indigenous businesses. Although overall procurement volume rose due to large amendments that did not involve Indigenous suppliers, PSPC continued to embed Indigenous benefits via subcontracting, training, and employment, strengthening Indigenous procurement outcomes and supporting reconciliation objectives. PSPC receives funding through annual federal appropriations to provide multiyear planned spending to support its central purchasing role and utilizes this funding to sustain consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples in procurement. The department also continued implementation of the mandatory minimum 5% Indigenous procurement target across all federal departments and worked in collaboration with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and the Treasury Board Secretariate of Canada (TBS) to support governance, guidance, and reporting structures for Indigenous participation in federal procurement.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PSPC noted that Indigenous organizations and communities often have limited capacity to engage with federal departments, and limited expertise related to procurement. These capacity constraints can reduce the depth of engagement and limit meaningful participation in procurement initiatives. Despite these challenges, PSPC will continue consulting and cooperating with Indigenous governments, organizations, communities and businesses to advance Indigenous procurement, improve approaches, strengthen reporting, update methods of supply, and refine Indigenous procurement policy.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 80

New, holistic long-term and continuing care framework

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, policy options for the First Nations and Inuit portion of a Long-Term and Continuing Care Framework were finalized. ISC noted that it was unable to seek approval prior to the dissolution of Parliament and the federal election in 2025. The department continues to explore incremental improvements to the program.

Expanded Métis-led engagement activities have nearly concluded, with most summary reports submitted by Indigenous partners. ISC continues to review these engagement summary reports to gain insights into Métis priorities. The department noted additional policy and/or funding authorities would be required to implement insights highlighted in the Métis engagement reports. Similarly, many of the policy options associated with implementing the First Nations and Inuit Framework would also require additional funding.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

Though engagement and co-development activities had largely concluded by the end of 2024-25, ISC noted that keeping in close contact with Indigenous partners when co-developing policy recommendations is essential. The department will seek to share as much information as possible along the way, while continuing to work with partners especially in mitigating anticipated challenges.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 81

Addressing mental health, suicide and addictions

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISC’s Mental Wellness Program provided trauma-informed mental health, emotional, and cultural support for Survivors and Intergenerational Survivors of Indian Residential Schools and Federal Indian Day Schools, for Indigenous people impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People, class members and potential class members of the First Nations, Child and Family Services, and Jordan’s Principle Settlement Agreement, and and other colonial sources of trauma through a national network of an estimated 1,000 community-based Cultural and Emotional Support Workers and over 250 funding agreements. The program also supports substance use prevention and treatment including a national network of residential substance use treatment centres, wraparound services associated with Opioid Agonist Therapy sites, 24/7 crisis line services through the Hope for Wellness Helpline, National Indian Residential School Crisis Line, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Crisis Line, and life promotion and suicide prevention activities.

In 2025-26, Health Canada's (HC) Substance Use and Addictions Program supported the ongoing implementation of 22 time-limited Indigenous led and/or focused projects across Canada valued at over $11 million. These projects support cross-cutting Indigenous health priorities related to substance use, including Indigenous wellness and healing programming and community-based substance use prevention, treatment and harm reduction initiatives. The Emergency Treatment Fund is a HC program that aims to provide urgent, targeted funding to municipalities and Indigenous communities to support rapid responses to the overdose crisis. The Fund allocated more than $29 million to support the implementation of 47 Indigenous projects to expand access to culturally relevant, trauma-informed, and evidence-based services. These projects focused on expanding mobile outreach and treatment access, delivering harm reduction services such as overdose prevention and naloxone distribution, strengthening crisis response and stabilization supports, and supporting community-based care models, including culturally responsive addiction supports, peer- and Elder-led programming, and land-based healing approaches. These figures reflect only those Substance Use and Addictions Program and Emergency Treatment Fund projects that were active during any portion of the 2025-26 fiscal year.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

ISC noted that the Mental Wellness Program engaged with the Assembly of First Nations, First Peoples Wellness Circle, Thunderbird Partnership Foundation, and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami on an ongoing basis throughout 2025-26.

Emergency Treatment Fund officials at HC conducted outreach to ISC and to National Indigenous Organizations to provide information on the 2025-26 call for proposals, increase awareness of the solicitation and invite their engagement, including the option to submit a proposal. To support meaningful engagement and the flexibility for Indigenous entities to participate in the 2025 call for proposals, the Fund supported these entities to determine their own substance use response priorities, as defined by the communities. The primary priority was urgency, defined as the need for swift action in relation to the overdose crisis, as applied to an individual community's context. To facilitate participation, proposals within the Emergency Treatment Fund relied on applicants to define themselves the nature of the urgency in their communities and determine their own substance use response priorities. This was done to ensure that program criteria were both adaptable to the specific community context of individual applicants, and supportive of self-determination. Emergency Treatment Fund and ISC officials, as well as Provincial and Territorial representatives worked in collaboration to review proposals and recommend projects for funding. Emergency Treatment Fund officials also partnered with ISC to validate the urban–rural status of Indigenous Calls for Proposal 2025 projects, ensuring postal code classifications better reflect community realities and support consistent tracking for proposals.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: HC

Shared Priority 82

Palliative and end of life care framework

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

HC has engaged with a wide variety of Indigenous governments and representative organizations on the topic of palliative care and medical assistance in dying. Engagement focused on leveraging existing and funding new First Nations, Inuit and Métis-led engagement, online public engagement, a national knowledge exchange forum, and convening virtual and hybrid national dialogues across Canada on Indigenous perspectives on end-of-life care. Outcomes were highlighted through a What We Heard Report that was published in December 2025, which shares major themes and issues from the departments engagement with Indigenous Peoples on end-of-life care, including medical assistance in dying. It was prepared by Indigenous and non-Indigenous HC staff with experience in Indigenous health policy, nursing, public health and program administration. Funding is project-based and time-limited, beginning in fiscal year 2022-23 and ends in 2025-26. Further funding opportunities are to be determined. Work continues to develop a palliative care summary report based on First Nations, Inuit and Métis-led engagement. The report is expected to be published in 2026-27.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

HC also collaborated with Indigenous organizations, as well as with Indigenous Services Canada, to create distinction-based palliative and end-of-life care reports. The purpose of the reports are to amplify Indigenous work on self-determined palliative care. Engagement was focused nationally and regionally but not at the community level. Budget and time constraints did not allow for in person dialogue with all regions in Canada, including some provinces or territories or remote and northern communities. Mitigation for this included Indigenous partners to participate virtually and provide online input. Others did not engage given the sensitive subject matter, so HC needed to be flexible with timing (extending engagement timelines when necessary), with youth engagements not well attended. A key lesson learned from activities undertaken in prior years and reflected in the 2025-26 What we heard report, is to engage early and consistently, with the aim of fostering transparency and information sharing, and to seek advice and views of Elders and Knowledge Carriers, who had valuable insights on how HC could engage, as well as on the substantive issues.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 83

Indigenous knowledge and MAID

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

HC has engaged with a wide variety of Indigenous governments and representative organizations on the topic of palliative care and medical assistance in dying. Engagement focused on leveraging existing and funding new First Nations, Inuit and Métis-led engagement, online public engagement, a national knowledge exchange forum, and convening virtual and hybrid national dialogues across Canada on Indigenous perspectives on end-of-life care. Outcomes were highlighted through a What We Heard Report that was published in December 2025, which shares major themes and issues from the departments engagement with Indigenous Peoples on end-of-life care, including medical assistance in dying. It was prepared by Indigenous and non-Indigenous HC staff with experience in Indigenous health policy, nursing, public health and program administration. Funding is project-based and time-limited, beginning in fiscal year 2022-23 and ends in 2025-26. Further funding opportunities are to be determined.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

HC also collaborated with Indigenous organizations, as well as with Indigenous Services Canada, to create distinction-based palliative and end-of-life care reports. The purpose of the reports are to amplify Indigenous work on self-determined palliative care. Engagement was focused nationally and regionally but not at the community level. Budget and time constraints did not allow for in person dialogue with all regions in Canada, including some provinces or territories or remote and northern communities. Mitigation for this included Indigenous partners to participate virtually and provide online input. Others did not engage given the sensitive subject matter, so HC needed to be flexible with timing (extending engagement timelines when necessary), with youth engagements not well attended. A key lesson learned from activities undertaken in prior years and reflected in the 2025-26 What we heard report is to engage early and consistently, with the aim of fostering transparency and information sharing, and to seek advice and views of Elders and Knowledge Carriers, who had valuable insights on how HC could engage, as well as on the substantive issues.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 84

Support for Friendship Centres and urban/off-reserve communities

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISC continued to advance reconciliation and UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples aligned programming for Indigenous peoples living in or transitioning to urban centres. The Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples program provides funding to Indigenous organizations across five streams including organizational capacity, programs and services, coalitions, research and innovation, and infrastructure to address community identified needs, improving social, economic, and community well-being. The program provides these funds for direct service delivery at ground level to close service gaps and address critical needs. The program has worked towards refining these tools to strengthen accountability and reporting. ISC will continue to explore strategic funding opportunities for the program in collaboration with Indigenous service delivery organizations, as the amounts available to support Indigenous Peoples in urban centres are a fraction of what partners continue to request.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples program did not undertake new consultation with Indigenous partners, as efforts were focused on internal refinement of the performance framework and logic model previously co-developed with Indigenous organizations. This work was undertaken to ensure alignment with internal reporting and accountability requirements. ISC noted that the biggest limitation was funding. Although the Program was able to provide some capacity building funding, Indigenous partners experience chronic underfunding. Additionally, the ongoing system approach to results-based outcomes can be limiting for partners. Following the completion of internal refinements to the performance framework and logic model, ISC plans to consult with Indigenous partners for validations. This step will help confirm that the refined product aligns with Indigenous priorities and measures of success.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One Indigenous partner noted concern with the lack of funding for many Indigenous women’s organizations as well as urban Indigenous coalitions working to advance this Action Plan measure and the rights of Indigenous women in their communities. This has resulted in critical gaps in services and supports, particularly for Indigenous women and their safety.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 85

Equality rights of Indigenous persons with disabilities

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Ongoing collaboration with Indigenous governments and rights holders through national Indigenous partners’ governance and collaboration systems has resulted in a body of recommendations and considerations. While data gaps persist, collaboration has informed clearer parameters for data structures that can address these gaps will respecting data sovereignty. Collaborative efforts on these data structures is advancing across multiple Crown-Indigenous relations structures. Collaborative engagement on the four pillars of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan and National Autism Strategy include more focused engagement on the Canada Disability Benefity, under the financial security pillary and the Accessible Canada Act, under the accessibility pillar. In addition to a growing understanding of Indigenous science and knowledge systems as they relate to Indigenous peoples living with disabilities, this collaboration is shedding a light on where existing systemic barriers are exacerbated for Indigenous peoples living with disabilities.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26, ESDC built on past engagement through the governance and collaboration structures of national Indigenous partners. With a particular focus on accessibility, engagement efforts were coordinated with Indigenous Services Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada to reflect broader health, infrastructure and service delivery contexts.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 86

Access to traditional foods and local food systems

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Nutrition North Canada program continues to evolve through close collaboration with Indigenous and northern partners, increasingly adopting a food-systems and co-delivery approach to advance food security and food sovereignty. The program works regularly with its Advisory Board, Indigenous Working Group, and the Inuit-Crown Food Security Working Group to strengthen effectiveness and to ensure that Indigenous leadership informs its direction. The program hosted a Food Sovereignty Summit with Food Banks Canada in March 2026, bringing together communities, Indigenous leaders, government, industry, and non-profit partners to share best practices and strengthen the northern food economy.

The Food Security Research Grant funds Indigenous-led projects through March 2028 to improve food security in northern and isolated communities. Federal investments support access to traditional foods and strengthen local food systems in northern and Indigenous communities. This includes support for the Nutrition North Canada subsidy program, the Harvesters Support Grant, the Community Food Program Fund, and the Food Security Research Grant.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CIRNAC noted that there have been ongoing program engagement with the Nutrition North Canada Advisory Board, the Indigenous Working Group, and the Inuit–Crown Food Security Working Group. CIRNAC is also engaging partners to reform Nutrition North Canada, with a focus on food economies, food ecosystems, food sovereignty, and food prosperity in ways that reflects distinctions-based priorities, cultural knowledge, and community-led solutions. In addition to the Food Sovereignty Summit noted above, regional engagement sessions with partners were held in February and March 2026 to learn about the priorities, challenges, and barriers that impact food security in northern regions; and a departmental (CIRNAC) 5-year evaluation was published in March 2026. Currently external interviewers have been retained to help gather perspectives, validate findings, identify trends, and flag potential risks or readiness considerations across Nutrition North Canada communities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 87

Indigenous food security, sovereignty and sustainability

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

AAFC has provided funding for Indigenous food security initiatives and infrastructure. However, these programs were not co-developed with Indigenous partners, are not exclusively Indigenous-focused, and do not directly advance the implementation of this Action Plan measure. Although AAFC has policy authority for new programming to support implementation, it has not been able to prioritize funding, and no resources have been allocated for consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners on this initiative.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

AAFC noted that no consultation and cooperation has occured related to the implementation of this Action Plan measure. Without dedicated resources, the department does not expect to be able to meaningfully consult and cooperate with Indigenous partners to meaningfully advance this Action Plan measure.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 88

Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISC and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) implemented distinctions-based funding to support the Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy. Multi-year funding agreements have been finalized with First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Modern Treaty and Self-Governing partners to enable the delivery of the strategy. Their self-determined delivery is underway, with plans for new and renewed housing, additional shelter and transitional spaces, increasing housing related capacity, and affordability supports. During 2025-26, the Government of Canada continued to consider next steps for remaining implementation of the Strategy. Budget 2025 re-confirmed overall funding, including to support implementation that was yet underway.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Indigenous partners received distinctions-based Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy funding, with the autonomy to determine how the resources are best utilized. With support from ISC and CIRNAC, the Indigenous partners have led planning, and implementation, underscoring their self-determined authority to define housing priorities, programs, and supports that reflect their specific needs. The Government of Canada will continue to work collaboratively with distinctions-based partners to support delivery of funding, including identifying funding recipients and revise work plans, project activities, budgets, cash flow requirements, and associated results frameworks, as applicable.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted their concern at the lack of an announcement related to the 2024 request for proposals process. Partners also advocated for a Nation-to-Nation, distinctions-based PLUS approach for Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: CIRNAC, CMHC

Shared Priority 89

Mental health promotion and prevention initiatives

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, PHAC coordinated with federal partners and engaged First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners via discussions and working groups to align mental health and wellness priorities. PHAC also supported Indigenous-led and culturally grounded projects through various funding streams. Examples include funding an Indigenous-led youth organization to create trauma‑informed and culturally appropriate substance-use prevention resources for Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ youth, four community projects under the Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund that support traditional Indigenous cultural activities, three community projects under the Youth Substance Use Prevention Program. PHAC continues to fund the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health to coordinate the 9‑8‑8: Suicide Crisis Helpline across Canada. A partnership between 9-8-8 and Hope for Wellness (funded by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)) ensures that in most of the country callers who identify as Indigenous can request Indigenous-specific support in English, Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut. The agency also noted that efforts are supported through a combination of existing salary resources for positions contributing to Action Plan measure implementation and targeted program and initiative funding.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PHAC engaged with Indigenous partners including the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Métis National Council, and others through bilateral meetings and invitations to provide updates to various Indigenous-led programs, working groups, and projects. The agency noted that limited access to technology in land-based or remote settings can make communication difficult, while scheduling regular engagement requires flexibility to align with partners’ availability and community activities. Additionally, resource and capacity constraints in some regions can impede timely communication and affect program implementation. Through engagement, PHAC is adapting data collection, research, and evaluation to reflect Indigenous-led and community-defined methods. The agency will continue distinctions-based, partner‑led engagement initiated by Indigenous partners or responding to partner identified priorities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 90

Addressing gaps and intergovernmental relations consistent with CAP/Daniels decision

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

CIRNAC officials considered opportunities to leverage existing relationships and mechanisms to make progress on this Action Plan measure. As a result, the department funded the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples’ proposal CAP-Daniels Summit - Creating a Critical Pathway. The summit was intended to deepen understanding of the systemic barriers and gaps within policies, programs, and services that impact the Congress’s constituents (Métis, off-reserve Status and Non-status Indians, and Southern Inuit Indigenous Peoples) and, by extension, a portion of the target population. The Congress will deliver a What We Heard Report and a critical path that includes recommendations for the implementation of Daniels decision.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CIRNAC noted that there is currently no funding to support consultation and cooperation at this time. As a result, formal engagement has not been undertaken on this measure with Métis and Non-Status organizations since the publishing of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan. The department continues to explore opportunities to leverage existing relationships and mechanisms to make progress on this work.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations have expressed frustration at the lack of progress related to this measure. One partner hosted a Summit in September 2025, bringing together leadership, subject matter experts, and community representatives to develop recommendations and identify a critical path for implementing the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in Daniels v. Canada. They noted that a whole-of-government implementation framework is required that clearly identifies roles and responsibilities, as well as establishing a reporting mechanism with key milestones and outcomes.

The Daniels v Canada continues to be identified by Métis partners as an important priority that has yet to be fulfilled. They have called for more progress in areas such as health (including work toward a Canada–Métis Nation Health and Wellness Sub-Accord), health legislation that reflects the distinct needs of Métis people, and education related to emergency management. They also noted that jurisdictional challenges remain and that the decision is not yet fully implemented and reflected in government policies, programs, and processes.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 91

Strengthening the Indigenous Languages Act

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The Indigenous Languages Act has two review mechanisms, of which PCH is of the view that the Independent Review process is the better mechanism to consider amendments to the Act as it requires the reviewer to consult with a variety of Indigenous organizations and governments. In September 2025, the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture launched the review by engaging Indigenous leadership and formally requesting names of potential candidates to form the independent review body. Following consultation with the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous languages, the Minister will identify the review body to undertake this work.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PCH worked with a Joint Implementation Steering Committee, which includes the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and Métis National Council to develop the review body for the independent review of the Act. Indigenous partners were then invited to submit potential candidates that could fill advisory roles on the review body. Many of the partner organizations have submitted candidates for consideration. The department noted that it involves partners in every step of the process including the design and development of an initiative. The department highlighted that transparency is key and outlines challenges so solutions can be found collaboratively. In accordance with the Indigenous Languages Act, the independent reviewer is required to engage and consult with a variety of Indigenous governments, other Indigenous governing bodies, and Indigenous organizations, concerning the conclusions and recommendations that should be included in the report.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Partners noted the Indigenous Languages Act should be strengthened with clear commitments, concrete actions, and protections equal to Canada’s Official Languages Act and have expressed concern about Canada's delay in undertaking the review of the Indigenous Languages Act. Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted a constructive working relationship with PCH, including discussions throughout 2025 on the criteria for hiring an Independent Reviewer and their advisors.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 92

Indigenous languages revitalization through the Indigenous Languages Act

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

From 2019-20 to 2028-29, the Government of Canada will have provided important budget investments of over $1.4 billion, and $162.3 million ongoing. These significant investments reflect the Government of Canada's commitment towards Indigenous languages revitalization and contributes to predictability for Indigenous partners. Engagement funding through the Indigenous Languages Program has been allocated to the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council to support their capacity in informing the implementation of the Indigenous Languages Act.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PCH noted that technical working tables, bilateral working groups, and sessions continued to support the implementation of the distinctions-based funding approaches, co-developed with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners and tailored to their priorities. Consultation and cooperation also took place with Indigenous organizations with large networks serving Indigenous urban populations. The department also reiterated that continuous engagement is key to ensuring that Indigenous perspectives are reflected in and guide policy development work. Flexibility in timelines and tailored approaches in accordance with the distinction's capacity and priorities are essential to allow meaningful participation and ownership. Co-development and engagement will continue in support of continued implementation of the funding models, including further refinements based on partner feedback. Annual work plans may also be developed with Indigenous partners to identify key work objectives, deliverables and general timelines.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Some partners in Quebec highlighted their participation in the Assemblée des Premières Nations Québec-Labrador Ancestral Languages Committee, the designated organization responsible for administering a funding program for Indigenous language revitalization supported by PCH. The program has enabled initiatives such as linguistic research and the development of teaching materials to support new speakers. First Nations partners noted that making funding more predictable, stable, recurring, and directed to First Nations would further strengthen these efforts. They also emphasized that tailoring support to the specific realities of each language and First Nation is critical to advance revitalization, recognizing that Indigenous languages are at different stages of recovery, reclamation and growth. Therefore, accountability and reporting mechanisms should be sufficiently flexible to avoid creating unnecessary administrative burdens. We also heard that reconnecting with culture, languages, and traditions, including through language revitalization, is recognized as essential for the mental health, identity, and resilience of Indigenous Peoples. Additionally, urban Indigenous organizations indicated productive engagement with federal partners on addressing funding disparities related to non-distinctions-based organizations.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 93

Access to federal services in Indigenous languages

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PCH continued to work on advancing access to federal services in Indigenous languages in alignment with the Indigenous Languages Act. Through information sharing initiatives with other federal government departments and agencies, PCH is developing materials to support Indigenous language translation efforts. The department also continued to advance work related to the translation of key departmental documents into Indigenous languages. For example, PCH translated the Indigenous Languages Act into 3 additional Indigenous languages, making it available in a total of 7 Indigenous languages. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is also available in 11 Indigenous languages.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Work to advance access to federal services in Indigenous languages is guided by consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners and their influence in decision-making. In 2025-26, PCH engaged with Indigenous partners through the Joint Implementation Steering Committee on improving access to services in Indigenous languages. This committee includes representatives from the Assembly of First Nations, the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and Métis National Council. PCH will continue to work with Indigenous partners to improve access to federal services in Indigenous languages.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 94

Indigenous engagement in arts, culture, commemorations and heritage

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PCH noted that this Action Plan measure is in preliminary planning stages. No additional funding has been required to advance this measure and the department will continue implementation using existing internal resources. However, PCH highlighted that additional funding may be required in the future.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

The department noted that, as implementation of this Action Plan measure is in the planning stage, no consultation and cooperation took place within 2025-26.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 95

Indigenous-led management of heritage places

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Within 2025-26, draft approaches for how PC might expand its current spectrum of shared governance arrangements to better recognize and support the application of Indigenous laws were developed, and analysis is ongoing to assess conditions under which their implementation may be feasible. An initial discussion was held with the PC Indigenous Stewardship Circle (an advisory body of Indigenous thought leaders) in September 2025, and engagement with other First Nation, Métis, and Inuit partners is being initiated. Engagement with Indigenous partners on proposed models for supporting Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas continued within 2025-26. A more in-depth workshop on both the Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas models and shared governance approaches was held with the PC Indigenous Stewardship Circle, in addition to other external Indigenous experts, in March 2026. Funding will be required to advance work and support Indigenous partners' capacity for co-development. The department has re-allocated internal resources to support advancement of this work.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In additional to what is noted above, PC also worked with the Haida Nation to implement the Chiix̱uujin • Chaaw Ḵaawgaa "Big Tide (Low Water)" Haida Title Lands Agreement, guided by a Memorandum of Understanding and a co-development approach. PC is consulting and cooperating with Indigenous partners throughco-developed place-based Indigenous stewardship plans that may identify shared governance priorities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 96

Indigenous cultural connections in heritage places

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PC has provided funding to support 52 Guardian Programs and 19 additional capacity-building initiatives. In fall 2025, the PC Indigenous Stewardship Circle (an advisory body of Indigenous thought leaders), in collaboration with two Indigenous-led organizations, led a workshop to identify focus areas to strengthen Indigenous economic opportunities and reduce barriers in heritage places it administers. Multiple national parks across the country delivered programming to support cultural continuity and learning with local Indigenous partners. Requests for support of Guardians initiatives exceed available funds and program funding ended in 2025-26, with no new funding yet confirmed. Internal funds are being reallocated temporarily to support implementation, and additional resourcing will be required, particularly to support Guardians initiatives.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PC holds regular meetings with Indigenous partners to receive guidance and feedback on shared priorities. An internal evaluation of the Guardian Program incorporated a collaborative study of Guardians initiatives with participating Indigenous partners. The Indigenous Stewardship Circle also advised on cultural competency training for employees and provided guidance on economic opportunities. As noted above, sourcing funding to advance shared priorities with Indigenous partners continues to be a challenge. PC experience demonstrates that early, ongoing, and respectful engagement with Indigenous partners, based on co‑development and shared decision‑making is important. PC will continue collaborating with the PC Indigenous Stewardship Circle, the Assembly of First Nations, and the Métis National Council as well as place-based Indigenous partners to co-develop strategies and initiatives to advance this Action Plan measure.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 97

Indigenous knowledge and data sovereignty in heritage places

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PC developed the Indigenous Knowledge and Knowledge Systems Toolkit in 2025, informed by research, collaboration with other departments, engagement, and experience working with Indigenous partners. It was presented to the PC Indigenous Stewardship Circle (an advisory body of Indigenous thought leaders) and is intended to support Agency staff in working respectfully with Indigenous knowledge holders. PC’s continued progress on this Action Plan Measure is dependent in part on securing resources specifically for collaboration with Indigenous partners. Funding will be provided, as needed, to enable consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners, including rights holders and representative organizations, as the initiative progresses.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PC is engaging in place-based consultation and cooperation on initiatives related to Indigenous knowledge, data sovereignty, and respectful payments. PC holds quarterly meetings with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle to address all aspects of the Indigenous Stewardship Framework and Policy, with tools and guidance continuing to be developed. However, funding to advance shared priorities with Indigenous partners continues to be a challenge. Effective consultation and cooperation approaches noted by PC include those that are place‑based, context‑specific, and acknowledge that Indigenous knowledge, data sovereignty, and respectful payments must be defined by the values, histories, rights, and priorities of the First Nation, Métis, and Inuit partners involved. PC will continue consulting and cooperating with Indigenous partners in fiscal year 2026–27 using the approaches noted above. In keeping with the Indigenous Stewardship Policy, each PC site will co-develop place-based Indigenous Stewardship Plans with local Indigenous partners.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 98

Returning Indigenous cultural belongings and ancestral remains

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

The department has engaged in preliminary discussions with National Indigenous Organizations to discuss priorities, next steps and financial needs to advance work on this Action Plan measure. While planning is underway, PCH continues its efforts to support repatriation activities, such as by providing funding through the Museums Assistance Program. Planning slowed in 2025-26 due to a lack of dedicated resources.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

In 2025-26 there were no new bilateral meetings on as PCH is still seeking resources to advance planning. The department noted it will be challenging to continue to support Indigenous participation, and ensuring participation from a diverse group of Indigenous Peoples, without additional resources while understanding that Indigenous partners may have competing priorities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

Métis partners welcomed the opportunity to engage with PCH regarding the repatriation of Métis artifacts associated with the auction of Hudson’s Bay Company items. Participation in these discussions was viewed as an encouraging example of constructive collaboration between Canada and a meaningful step toward ensuring that culturally significant materials connected to Métis history and identity are returned to Métis stewardship. Some First Nations partners called for the development of a legislation to protect Indigenous ancestors, funerary objects, and cultural artifacts, as it exists in other Canadian jurisdictions and in some other countries. They shared some challenges in repatriation including inconsistent provincial practices causing delays, no uniform legal responsibility for researchers or institutions to report and return remains and artifacts, financial burdens unfairly placed on First Nations, and a lack of recognition of First Nations expertise and authority over sacred and cultural sites. Urban and off-reserve Indigenous organizations noted that implementation should also include co-development processes supporting urban, off-reserve, and non-status community repatriation efforts.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 99

MMIWG and support for Indigenous-led cultural initiatives

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PCH noted that this initiative currently lacks the funding and resources required to make significant progress. Building on 2024–25 efforts and working within existing capacities, the department has started to analyze both internal and external data to continue mapping the types of traditional cultural activities being funded. This work aims to better document gaps in federal programming related to these activities and to determine whether existing flexibilities are available and, if so, how they might be leveraged. The next steps include conducting clarifying interviews to gain deeper insights into the findings and preparing a report. These efforts will help position PCH strategically to advance work related to this Action Plan measure when funding becomes available.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

The department noted that no consultation and cooperation took place during the last fiscal year. PCH does not have the policy authority required to work directly with Indigenous partners to advance this Action Plan measure. Its current authority extends only to working with other federal departments on matters related to supports for Indigenous‑led cultural initiatives.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 100

Supporting Indigenous artists and organizations

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

PCH noted that the Canada Music Fund ensures that a diversity of Canadian music artists connect with audiences everywhere. The entire contribution budget is further distributed by FACTOR for the anglophone music market and Musicaction for the francophone music market. While the Canada Music Fund does not have a component that specifically targets funding for the Indigenous music community, FACTOR and Musicaction support Indigenous-led music companies, organizations, and artists Budget 2025 announced funding of $48 million for the Canada Music Fund over three years, starting in 2026-27, to keep supporting initiatives that enhance the careers of Canadian artists, while strengthening the competitiveness and stability of the Canadian music sector. This is a renewal of funds announced in Budget 2024 that were scheduled to sunset at the end of 2025-26. With these renewed funds, the Canada Music Fund’s contribution budget in 2026-27 will be $40.9 million. However, even with this renewed funding, the program's resources are limited and it is highly oversubscribed.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PCH noted that, within the 2025-26 fiscal year, Canada Music Fund staff have strengthened relationships with Indigenous music organizations, attended the International Indigenous Music Summit, participated in training and events, and engaged with various Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs to enhance their understanding of Indigenous peoples and reconciliation. These activities will continue into 2026-27.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 101

Indigenous cultural heritage and intellectual property

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISED continued to engage with Indigenous Peoples in relation to the World Intellectual Property Organization's ongoing negotiations on treaties on the protection of traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expressions, as well as in relation to domestic policy. ISED also continued to deliver the Indigenous Intellectual Property Program grant which provides up to $150,000 in funding annually for Indigenous organizations to implement initiatives and projects related to intellectual property, and Indigenous knowledge, and Indigenous cultural expressions. ISED continues to implement broader initiatives to help Indigenous Peoples protect their intellectual property. The ElevateIP program has surpassed its target for increasing participation by underrepresented groups, with 38% of start-ups supported owned by underrepresented groups (target of 20%), including 150 projects by Indigenous Peoples. The Canadian Intellectual Property Office provided Indigenous‑focused intellectual property tools and released new publications on patents, traditional knowledge, and genetic resources. ISED is developing learning and advisory services to support federal employees in gaining knowledge and expertise in helping Indigenous Peoples protect their intellectual property.

PCH concluded Phase I of its Shared Priority 101 workplan, which involved engaging with Indigenous artists and creative experts to determine paths forward on prominent issues identified in previous feedback. Results of this engagement were outlined in a What We Heard report, and included unauthorized copying, inauthentic Indigenous-style arts and crafts, and their offensive use. Phase II began in late 2025 by convening an Indigenous Advisory Circle to collaboratively develop policy options that could inform efforts to ensure measures are in place to enable Indigenous Peoples to maintain, control, protect and develop their cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, and traditional cultural expressions, and to validate priorities for action.

Canada’s three federal research funding agencies, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), have launched funding opportunities for Indigenous partners. These include the Indigenous Capacity and Leadership in Research Connection Grants (for First Nations and Métis), the Indigenous Innovation and Leadership in Research Network Grants (for First Nations and Métis), and the Inuit Research Network Grant – Phase 3.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Both ISED and PCH noted that limited funding poses barriers to long-term planning. Predictable multi-year funding would support more sensitive engagement and consultations that are better able to accommodate the realities faced by Indigenous rights holders.

ISED is expecting to launch a national engagement on Canada’s national geographical indications regime in the federal Trademarks Act in 2026. Engagement will include a focus on Indigenous cultural heritage and intellectual property.

PCH’s work on Phase II of it’s workplan is expected to extend into 2026-27, featuring engagement with Indigenous organizations and interested Indigenous governance bodies.

In 2025-26, CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC collaborated with Indigenous advisory groups and research partners to design three new opportunities featuring Indigenous-led peer review processes. Further, engagement with other Indigenous partners, including Indigenous post-secondary and not-for-profit institutions, focused on informing Indigenous partners about the new funding opportunities. In addition, open, online and bilingual sessions were organized to inform the interested organizations and researchers. The review processes for these funding opportunities were Indigenous-led, with peer review committees nearly entirely composed of Indigenous members with a wide breadth of research expertise across disciplines.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: SSHRC, NSERC, CIHR

Shared Priority 102

Indigenous self determination in post-secondary education, skills training, and employment

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

ISC advanced several initiatives with Indigenous partners to support education, skills development and employment. Through the IT Apprenticeship Program for Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous apprentices completed a blended approach of on-the-job learning, mentorship and self-paced training in the area of Information Technology, leading to the September 2025 graduation of four apprentices and ongoing regional support for five others, including placements in the Nursing Services Response Centre. Through the First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy, which is a component of the horizontal Youth Employment and Skills Strategy led by ESDC, ISC continued to support initiatives that provide First Nations and Inuit youth aged 15 to 30 with work experience, information about career options, and skills development opportunities to support career development and transition into the workforce. In alignment with the principle of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation control of their post-secondary education, ISC also continued to implement three distinctions-based Post-Secondary Education Strategies. These Strategies support First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation students and post-secondary institutions, as well as governance capacity, research and knowledge exchange. Through the Income Assistance Program, ISC transferred $49.7 million to154 First Nations communities for Case Management and Pre-employment Supports, which helps to bridge the gap for individuals who seek to pursue trainning opportunities and secure employment. Modernization of the Income Assistance program is ongoing in collaboration with ISC regional representatives and First Nations, with a focus on improving responsiveness, accountability, and alignment with community priorities.

ESDC’s Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program, as well as ISC’s First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy and the three distinctions-based Post-Secondary Education Strategies noted above, are two primary federal programs contributing to Indigenous peoples’ and communities’ right to self-determination on post-secondary education, skills training and employment. These co-developed programs contibute to Indigenous-led strategies by flowing long-term, flexible, distinctions-based investments to Indigenous governments and mandated service delivery partners. The programs both have broad terms that respect and affirm Indigenous governments’ rights to design and implement holistic strategies in alignment with the values, priorities and needs of their communities. While supported by federal investments, successes achieved through these programs do not belong to the Government of Canada, but rather to the Indigenous governments leading this work.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

ESDC maintained ongoing dialogue through national distinctions-based technical working groups, regional Indigenous Skills and Employment Training technical gatherings and bilateral engagement. Skills and Partnership Fund investments also contributed to Indigenous-led collaboration mechanisms like Prosper and the Joint Economic Development Initiative, that bring federal, provincial, and Indigenous governments together as equal partners, along with sector, education and intersectional partners, to coordinate labour market investments and strategies.

ISC’s Post-Secondary Education Program and Policy teams continued to work closely with partners on the distinctions-based Post-Secondary Education Strategies, for example on updates to the Terms and Conditions and in order to better understand program successes and challenges. First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation partners also continued their own consultation and cooperation activities through their respective Strategies.

ISC's Income Assistance program developed and updated communication products to support First Nations funding recipients implementing Case Management and Pre-Employment Supports. Such documents include national guidelines, funding approval letter templates, and an annual survey template. In addition, ISC works closely with First Nations partners to gain insight into First Nation perspectives and understand realities in communities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner stressed the importance of training and employment for First Nations, by First Nations.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 103

Indigenous Early Learning and Childcare Framework

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025–26, ESDC noted meaningful progress was advanced by Indigenous partners and the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Secretariat towards ensuring all Indigenous children have access to high‑quality, culturally strong early learning and childcare programs. ESDC continued to employ a partnership model which emphasizes enabling Indigenous-led decision-making and supports consultation and cooperation. To lead the design and delivery of distinctions-based funding envelopes, the Secretariat at ESDC actively manages over 65 different relationships / fora to implement this initiative, ranging in scope from province-wide partnership tables to bilateral, community-based interactions. These fora play a key role in planning and priority setting to guide transformation in the Indigenous early learning and child care sector and enable technical expertise to support Indigenous-led approaches.

Both ISC and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) continue to work with ESDC to support the implementation of the co-developed Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework by flowing investments for the Aboriginal Head Start on Reserve program for First Nations, and the Aboriginal Head Start for Urban and Northern Communities respectively. The framework has provided a number of opportunities such as enabling greater influence and control by Indigenous people over Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care programs and services, supports early learning and child care priorities set by Indigenous communities, strengthens foundational supports for Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care, and supports Indigenous-led Quality Improvement Projects to develop and promote models to strengthen capacity and improve service quality.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

ESDC reported that the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Secretariat worked closely with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners through approximately 60 national, regional and bilateral partnership tables to help achieve the vision set out in the Early Learning and Child Care Framework. Under this partnership model, national Indigenous leadership determines the allocation of their distinctions-based funding envelopes across regions, while regional governing bodies identify specific priorities, activities, and funding decisions within their respective regions. The Secretariat maintains ongoing engagement with Indigenous partners to guide program and funding decisions and to support the initiative’s long-term objective of transferring the program to Indigenous governing bodies at a pace and scope of their choosing.

ISC also reported that, at the national and regional level, the department engaged with regional partnership tables and Provincial-Territorial Organizations with ESDC to support Indigenous decision-making for the implementation of Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care. ISC has also engaged at the community level to advance the implementation of Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care in communities.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 104

Options for TRC Call to Action 66

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

CIRNAC noted that evidence gathered to date demonstrates that a Call to Action 66 pilot project to support Indigenous youth-led organization, launched in 2019, has been successful. Data collected from Indigenous youth show a range of promising outcomes, including increased access to culturally relevant programming, and increased skills and capacity. Almost 2,000 youth participated in policy and research programming and 30 have been offered employment opportunities with the federal government and other agencies. In addition to program delivery, federal funding has facilitated the establishment of strong pathways for Indigenous youth engagement via their Indigenous Youth Network, Annual Gatherings of youth, and their Policy and Innovation Hub. These programs and events enable Indigenous youth from across the country to come together, support each other, and engage with federal departments on key policy initiatives that impact them and their communities.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

CIRNAC noted that while consultation and cooperation occurred in 2025-26, engagement with National and other Indigenous organizations was put on-hold. A plan for engagement with Indigenous partners to aid in co-developing options for long-term implementation of Call to Action 66 has been developed.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 105

Indigenous Screen Office Program

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

This Action Plan measure was identified as completed.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: N/A
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: N/A

This Action Plan measure was identified as completed.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

This Action Plan measure was identified as completed.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 106

Northern Aboriginal Broadcasting

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025-26, PCH developed a strategy to engage with the Indigenous media sector to inform the modernization of various direct support programs, including Northern Aboriginal Broadcasting. The Department signed a Memorandum of Arrangement with the Indigenous Media Association of Canada to lead the engagements, which are planned for Spring or Summer of 2026. With overall funding at $7.9 million annually for the last 29 years, increased ongoing funds are critical for the national expansion of the program, which is currently restricted to Indigenous broadcasters who broadcast their programming in the North.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

While no formal engagement or co-development sessions were held in 2025-26 to examine how the program could be modernized, PCH met with Northern Aboriginal Broadcasting clients and conducted site visits to get a better sense of clients’ situations and existing challenges. In 2026-27, the department will engage with the Indigenous media sector to help guide the modernization of the program.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 107

Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

JUS highlighted that the first portion of this Action Plan measure, to support the ongoing work of the Independent Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves and Burial Sites associated with Indian Residential Schools, has been completed. The Special Interlocutor issued her final report in October 2024. JUS continues to work with other implicated departments to develop potential options for responding to the final report.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Any future actions taken to respond to the Special Interlocutor’s final report will require extensive consultation and cooperation.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

One partner called on the introduction and enactment of a national law similar to the Native American Graves protection and Repatriation Act. They developed a draft statute in collaboration with the Special Interlocutorwith the goal of fostering a collaborative legislative co-development process. Other Indigenous partners have emphasized the importance of addressing ongoing barriers to access to certain personal records and have stressed the importance of ongoing funding to support communities in their work to investigate unmarked burial sites and determine next steps. In the course of debates regarding Bill C-9, Combatting Hate Act, several Indigenous partners also emphasized the need to take legislative and other measures to combat Indian Residential School denialism and anti-Indigenous hate.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 108

Sharing Indian Residential School documents

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: No

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

An Indigenous-led Indian Residential School Documents Advisory Committee was established by CIRNAC in 2023 to make recommendations on minimizing barriers to sharing documents related to Indian Residential Schools. In August 2024, the Chair and other non-Government Committee members suspended the Committee indefinitely due to what they perceived as a lack of sufficient financial investment by the Government of Canada. As such, while related federal records identification, review, processing, and other activities continued in 2025-26 — relying on the definition of an Indian Residential School Document established by the Committee prior to its suspension — the remaining work of the Advisory Committee is officially on hold.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: No
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: No

The department noted that no consultation or cooperation took place within 2025-26, nor is it expected in 2026-27, due to a lack of funding for non-government members of the Committee.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 109

Participation in processes for implementing international human rights treaties

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Through targeted outreach, national information-sharing sessions on recently concluded and upcoming United Nations international human rights reviews, and ongoing collaboration with Indigenous representative institutions, the Human Rights Program within PCH has worked to ensure that Indigenous perspectives increasingly shape Canada's priorities and participation in United Nations reviews under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

In 2025-26, PCH noted progress toward more inclusive, distinctions-based engagement where new distinctions-based engagement models were explored. PCH worked to continue to build from Employment and Social Development Canada’s community engagement under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, including distinctions-based engagement with National Indigenous Organizations.

Lessons learned from Canada's appearance under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, including through feedback from Indigenous participants who travelled to Geneva, were shared across federal, provincial, and territorial governments, resulting in clearer processes, improved practices, and a validated best-practices guide. Overall, these developments contributed to a more transparent and collaborative approach to implementing Canada's international human rights commitments. While important progress has been made, further work remains.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

PCH noted that the Human Rights Program does not conduct consultation as defined under the Crown's duty to consult, which applies when proposed federal actions may adversely affect Indigenous or treaty rights. Instead, the Program engages with Indigenous representatives to support their participation and perspectives in Canada's work with United Nations human rights mechanisms and in domestic reporting, implementation and follow up of international human rights obligations.

Including the above, key activities included engagement to help shape the engagement on the margins of the May 2026 Forum of Ministers on Human Rights and in working with the Department of Justice in preparation for Canada’s March 2026 United Nations review under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and PCH convening a national information-sharing session in October 2025 on United Nations international human rights reviews, providing an opportunity for Indigenous representative institutions to share input and pose questions to federal, provincial, and territorial governments on implementation status and updates.

Lastly, PCH met with Indigenous participants who travelled to Geneva for Canada’s review under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women to hear their concerns and reflections on their experiences. Lessons learned and best practices were then shared across federal, provincial, and territorial governments to strengthen in-person engagement with partners during United Nations human rights reviews. PCH also coordinated the submission of federal-provincial-territorial entry points for engagement with partners and stakeholders, including Indigenous representative institutions.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 110

Commitment to redress in Parks Canada heritage places

• Link to TRC-CTAs: Yes
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

In 2025, PC developed a policy suite including tools and guidance to support staff in the implementation of initiatives related to acknowledgements, apologies, and redress with Indigenous partners. The suite consisted of four complementary documents that provided accessible guidance tailored for staff engaged in different streams of work related to acknowledgements, apologies, and redress. Together, they offered a high-level policy foundation, detailed place‑based guidance, risk‑management information, practical messaging and relationship-based approaches aligned with PC's commitments to truth‑telling, the UN Declaration and related Act and Action Plan, and the Indigenous Stewardship Policy. These internally-oriented documents support respectful, Indigenous‑led co‑development and implementation of this Action Plan measure and were presented to the PC Indigenous Stewardship Circle (an advisory body of Indigenous thought leaders) for discussion and review. However, the ability to advance this work is partially dependent on additional resources. Funding will be made available for consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners, rights holders, and representative organizations as initiatives advance.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

Consultation and cooperation took place with local Indigenous partners in relation to potential truth-telling, acknowledgments, apology and redress initiatives. Work is ongoing in various locations such as Jasper National Park and Wood Buffalo National Park. PC noted that funding to advance consultation and cooperation activities to advance this Action Plan measure has been a challenge.

PC highlighted the importance of early, ongoing, and respectful engagement with Indigenous partners, grounded in co‑development and shared decision‑making rather than predetermined outcomes. Successful approaches are place‑based and context‑specific, recognizing that acknowledgements, apologies, and redress must be shaped by the histories, rights, and priorities of First Nation, Métis and Inuit partners. The department will continue to consult and cooperate closely to advance this Action Plan measure.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: None

Shared Priority 111

British Columbia Action Plan implementation

• Link to TRC-CTAs: No
• Link to MMIWG-CFJs: Yes

Work completed to advance Action Plan measure in 2025-2026

Transport Canada (TC) looks forward to continued consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners and the Province of British Columbia in support of British Columbia's Declaration Act Action Plan. The department developed a mandatory internal assessment template to determine if there are potential intersections or inconsistencies between all new or amended legislative and regulatory initiatives and the Declaration and how to bring them in alignment with the UN Declaration Act. In 2025-26, TC completed 18 UN Declaration Act assessments on new or amended regulatory or legislative initiatives. This lens is similarly applied to any periodic reviews and any resulting amendments. TC also noted that the Indigenous Participant Funding Program funds projects and initiatives designed to support the capacity of Indigenous communities and organizations to take part in processes related to the Canadian Navigable Waters Act, the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, and the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan. In addition, the Community Participation Funding Program helps eligible local and Indigenous communities and organizations take part in developing and improving Canada's marine and rail transportation system.

Justice Canada (JUS) has continued to work with the First Nations Leadership Council in British Columbia under the framework of the Letter of Understanding that was signed in 2023. JUS and First Nations Leadership Council staff have met approximately monthly to advance work under this framework. Over the course of this last year, they have worked to revise and update the workplan initially developed and approved in 2024. In February 2026, the First Nations Leadership Council met with Minister Fraser and approved this revised workplan with a view to advancing work in key areas, including the alignment of laws and prioritization of Action Plan measures. JUS has also worked to liaise with officials in the British Columbia Government, particularly within the British Columbia Declaration Act Secretariat, with several meetings occurring in the past year.

Consultation and cooperation

• Occurred: Yes
• Opportunity for future consultation and cooperation: Yes

TC continually prioritizes relationship building, engagement, partnership development, collaboration and co-development with Indigenous peoples, nations, and organizations. The department has a team in place to help coordinate engagement opportunities and provide advice to file leads through their departmental Engagement Team. The Engagement Team used the Engagement Bulletin to provide information to over 1575 individuals representing approximately 893 Indigenous nations, organizations, governments and communities nationally.

Indigenous partner perspectives on implementation

No input was provided for this Action Plan measure.

Milestones

No milestones were provided for this Action Plan measure.

Other departments and agencies that contributed to this APM: TC

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