in Canada resource projects
Two landmark deals in western Canada could reshape the role of Indigenous nations in resource development projects, placing greater power in the hands of groups that have long been excluded and signalling a possible shift in how industry and governments negotiate with communities on the frontlines of environmental degradation.
In recent years, a string of fierce battles over pipelines have put a spotlight on the fractious nature of resource extraction projects, often pitting First Nations communities against powerful companies.
But this week the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it (YQT), a community in south-eastern British Columbia, signed an unprecedented agreement with the mining company NWP Coal Canada that would give Indigenous leadership a “veto” over the proposed project, dramatically reshaping the power Indigenous nations have over their territory.
Link to article: Landmark deals give Indigenous key role in Canada resource projects | Canada | The Guardian
