Mark Carney's Government and First Nations Partnership in 'Build Canada'

In a recent commentary, Frances Abele and Lloyd Axworthy address the imperative for First Nations to be acknowledged as equal partners in Mark Carney's 'Build Canada' initiative. As Canada looks to revitalise its infrastructure and development agenda, the authors argue that ignoring Indigenous perspectives and rights could hinder the project's overall success. They highlight historical tensions and ongoing inequities that must be resolved to allow for a collaborative approach to building the country. The commentary underscores that First Nations should not merely be consulted but actively involved in decision-making processes pertaining to projects that impact their lands and communities. This partnership, they assert, is not only a matter of justice but also critical to the effectiveness and acceptance of future development plans.