Policy

• Policy Development
• Federal Policy Response
• Treaty Coordination
• International Indigenous Relations

Policy Development

The Policy unit is developing a strategic framework that Canadian Heritage will use to ensure its policies and programs reflect Aboriginal concerns. The framework, which will include an Aboriginal cultural diversity agenda, will link closely with other Canadian Heritage policy initiatives, such as the Heritage Policy Framework and the Aboriginal Sport Policy. We also offer informed policy advice on Aboriginal societies and their heritage, cultures and issues.

The Policy unit is also providing input into the Aboriginal Affairs Branch's ongoing program renewal process. Specifically, it is analysing and integrating the findings of the Retrospective Study and the Environmental Scan. Program renewal aims to streamline and revitalize the terms and conditions of the Branch's 13 programs and initiatives to make them more efficient.

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Federal Policy Response

The Policy unit provides a coordinated departmental response to Aboriginal policy initiatives of other federal departments. In this way, it contributes to the federal Aboriginal policy agenda.

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Treaty Coordination

The Policy unit coordinates and develops departmental input into more than 80 treaty and self-government negotiation processes, including the British Columbia Treaty Commission process.

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International Indigenous Relations

Finally, the Policy unit helps Canadian Heritage contribute to Canada's positions and activities in various international fora. These fora include the United Nations; the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization; the Organization of American States; and the Summit of the Americas.

Please visit our Web Resources page for online research about Aboriginal people in Canada

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For additional information, please contact us: