The Treaty Principles Bill: A Plain English Explanation
Introduction
The Treaty Principles Bill is a proposed law that would require the Government of Canada to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) into Canadian law.
UNDRIP is an international agreement that sets out the rights of Indigenous peoples, including their rights to self-determination, culture, language, and land.
The Treaty Principles Bill would ensure that these rights are respected and protected in Canada.
What would the Treaty Principles Bill do?
The Treaty Principles Bill would require the Government of Canada to:
- Implement UNDRIP into Canadian law.
- Establish a new relationship with Indigenous peoples based on recognition of their rights.
- Create a new framework for reconciliation between Indigenous peoples and the Government of Canada.
The Bill would also create a new Indigenous Rights Tribunal to hear and decide cases involving Indigenous rights.
Why is the Treaty Principles Bill important?
The Treaty Principles Bill is important because it would:
- Help to implement UNDRIP into Canadian law, which would ensure that the rights of Indigenous peoples are respected and protected.
- Establish a new relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Government of Canada based on recognition of their rights.
- Create a new framework for reconciliation between Indigenous peoples and the Government of Canada.
- Help to create a more just and equitable society for all Canadians.
What are the next steps?
The Treaty Principles Bill is currently before the House of Commons.
The Bill is expected to be debated and voted on in the coming months.
If passed by the House of Commons, the Bill will then go to the Senate for debate and a vote.
If passed by both the House of Commons and the Senate, the Bill will then receive Royal Assent and become law.
