Land, resources and self-government agreements combine land claim and self-government into a single agreement. These agreements describe certain Aboriginal and Treaty rights in relation to land, resources and self-government.
Self-Government
The long history, rich culture, and unique traditions of Aboriginal people in the NWT have helped to shape and define the NWT.
Self-government agreements are intended to implement the Aboriginal party’s inherent right to self government. As such, self-government agreements describe the structure of Aboriginal government(s), at potentially both the community and regional levels, and describe the powers and responsibilities of the self-government(s).
Self-government negotiations in the NWT are guided by the Federal Inherent Right Policy.
Land and Resources (Comprehensive Claims)
Land and resources agreements (sometimes referred to as land claim agreements) provide clarity and certainty in relation to Aboriginal and Treaty rights over land and resources. These agreements provide the Aboriginal party with title to certain lands, provide for rights in relation to the harvesting of wildlife, plants and trees, provide for resource management (land, water, renewable resources, and regulation of the environment) and other matters related to the above. These agreements usually also include a financial component for the Aboriginal party.
Land and resources negotiations in the NWT are guided by the Federal Comprehensive Claims policy.