BC Treaty Commission

09/15/2026

Yesterday, 11 former B.C. attorneys general from across the political spectrum signed an open letter upholding modern treaties, and the certainty, opportunity, and reconciliation they make possible.

In their words:

“Modern treaties are good for reconciliation — and good for British Columbia. They establish clear rights and responsibilities for Indigenous nations, public governments, communities, businesses, lenders and investors.”

Their message is clear: “This is not a choice between reconciliation and economic opportunity. Modern treaties help make both possible.”

Achieving reconciliation through fairly negotiated and honourably implemented treaties and agreements.

08/24/2026

BC Treaty Chief Commissioner George Abbott is bringing renewed focus to the complex issue of overlapping and shared territories, with a commitment to practical solutions that support First Nations and keep treaty-making moving forward.

06/29/2026

As we conclude Indigenous History Month, we highlight how land agreements and modern treaties are creating new pathways for Indigenous-led stewardship across British Columbia.

Through land guardian programs, First Nations are strengthening their connection to the land, protecting ecosystems, and advancing long-term sustainability for future generations.

From watershed planning to wildlife monitoring and cultural revitalization, these initiatives reflect a shared commitment to healthy lands and communities that benefit everyone.

06/21/2026

This National Indigenous Peoples Day, we celebrate how modern treaties support Indigenous self-government and create lasting opportunities for language and cultural revitalization.

The Tla'amin Treaty established self-governance and enabled investments in education, culture revitalization and the creation of ʔəms ʔayɛ (Our House)—a gathering place that supports ceremonies, community events, and language learning.

For the Tsawwassen First Nation, treaty implementation has supported hən̓q̓əmin̓əm language learning and initiatives like the TFN Farm School that reconnect members with traditional knowledge and Indigenous food systems.

These are powerful examples of how modern treaties provide the framework for First Nations to strengthen their languages, cultures, and identities while building strong relationships with non-Indigenous neighbours to support vibrant communities for future generations.

06/11/2026

Modern treaties provide legal certainty and framework needed for economic development and regional business partnerships.

This week, we're highlighting the Maa-nulth First Nations Final Agreement (Maa-nulth Treaty) as an example of treaty success. By moving away from the constraint of the Indian Act, these five Nations have unlocked investments in residential housing, community infrastructure, and tourism.

Swipe through to learn how modern treaties benefit First Nations, community, and British Columbians.

06/04/2026

2026 is a milestone year for modern treaties in BC.

This National Indigenous History Month we celebrate historic progress in treaty negotiations across the province.

This year, three First Nations are taking steps forward toward self-determination and shared economic prosperity.

Modern treaties establish a foundation of legal certainty and true partnership, building stronger communities for everyone. Swipe through to read more about these significant milestones!

06/01/2026

This June, join the BC Treaty Commission in celebrating National Indigenous History Month!

Throughout the month of June, we will be sharing information on the ongoing journey of modern treaties in BC by highlighting recent achievements in the made-in-BC negotiations process, economic benefits of modern treaties, community successes, and more.

We encourage you to follow along and listen, learn, and support the efforts for reconciliation as we celebrate and honour Indigenous peoples, their rights and contributions.

05/30/2026

The BC Treaty Commission congratulates the K’ómoks First Nation on the passage of the K’ómoks Treaty Act in the BC Legislative Assembly on May 28th, 2026.

“The K’ómoks Treaty Act is a landmark achievement that reflects decades of perseverance, collaboration, and partnership,” said Chief Commissioner George Abbott.

For more information on the K’ómoks Treaty Act read the Treaty Commission’s news release - link in our bio.

05/29/2026

The K’ómoks Treaty Act (Bill 20) is now officially an Act of the Province of British Columbia

The K’ómoks Treaty Act (Bill 20) has reached a historic milestone. Late this afternoon, the bill received Royal Assent and is now an Act of the Province of British Columbia.

This comes after the bill passed Third Reading earlier today in the BC Legislature, with 53 MLAs voting in favour and 39 against.

This achievement reflects decades of work by K’ómoks members, Elders, leaders, negotiators, and community members who have remained committed to advancing a modern treaty and building a stronger future for the Nation.

Next, we will turn our efforts toward preparations for the federal legislative process, as the K’ómoks Treaty must still be ratified by the Parliament of Canada. Following federal ratification, the Parties will work together to establish an Effective Date and continue preparations for implementation.

05/14/2026

This year marks the 26th anniversary of the Nisga’a Final Agreement (Nisga’a Treaty), negotiated by the Nisga’a Nation, the Government of Canada, and the Government of British Columbia. It went into effect on May 11th, 2000.

The Nisga’a Treaty was the first modern treaty negotiated in British Columbia, prior to the establishment of the BC treaty negotiations process.

Today, the Nisga’a Nation continues to exercise their right to self-government and create opportunities to promote the sustainable development of the Nation’s natural resources and to protect and promote Nisga’a language, culture and history.

As we honour this anniversary, we celebrate the leadership and determination of the Nisga’a Nation and a future built on opportunity and prosperity not just for Nisga’a Nation members, but for all British Columbians.