About AANDC

Vision

Canada's economic and social well-being benefits from strong, self-sufficient Aboriginal and northern people and communities.

Our vision is a future in which First Nations, Inuit, Métis and northern communities are healthy, safe, self-sufficient and prosperous - a Canada where people make their own decisions, manage their own affairs and make strong contributions to the country as a whole.

Mandate

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) supports Aboriginal people (First Nations, Inuit and Métis) and Northerners in their efforts to:

  • improve social well-being and economic prosperity;
  • develop healthier, more sustainable communities; and
  • participate more fully in Canada's political, social and economic development - to the benefit of all Canadians.

AANDC is one of the federal government departments responsible for meeting the Government of Canada's obligations and commitments to First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and for fulfilling the federal government's constitutional responsibilities in the North. AANDC's responsibilities are largely determined by numerous statutes, negotiated agreements and relevant legal decisions. Most of the Department's programs, representing a majority of its spending - are delivered through partnerships with Aboriginal communities and federal-provincial or federal-territorial agreements. AANDC also works with urban Aboriginal people, Métis and Non-Status Indians (many of whom live in rural areas).

AANDC's mandate, responsibilities and key priorities are shaped by centuries of history, and unique demographic and geographic challenges. AANDC is one of 34 federal departments and agencies involved in Aboriginal and northern programs and services.

What Information is Available?

Learn more about our Minister or about how the department is organized. Find annual reports on spending, plans and performance for our programs. Access our media room, library and a complete repository of all reports and publications available on this Web site. Also, check out our selection of Aboriginal success stories from communities across Canada.

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