In one critical aspect, the conclusion of 2025 mirrored its beginning for First Nations, with the Canadian government once again embroiled in legal battles against Indigenous communities to curtail its obligation to provide essential services to Indigenous children. This year saw the Trudeau administration initiating a court challenge against the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal to dispute a mandate ordering action on the backlog of requests under the Jordan’s Principle initiative. However, by December 15, 2025, the Carney government faced defeat in a significant Jordan’s Principle case at the Federal Court of Appeal, reinforcing Ottawa’s legal responsibilities.
While these legal disputes marked familiar territory, 2025 also witnessed notable changes in Indigenous politics. Here are some key events from the year.
The Jordan’s Principle program faced persistent challenges, with Indigenous Services Canada implementing a controversial bulletin that restricted funding for eligible services amidst a growing backlog of requests. This move led to disruptions in programs such as a suicide-prevention initiative in the Cree community of Kashechewan and funding cuts for essential services for individuals like eight-year-old Ethan Maracle. Despite these setbacks, some users of Jordan’s Principle successfully contested denials in court, culminating in a significant Federal Court of Appeal ruling against the government.
In a separate development, newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney introduced significant political shifts in Ottawa, which drew early criticism from Indigenous leaders. Amid discussions of imposing pipelines on Indigenous territories, Indigenous leaders demanded inclusion and even threatened protests should projects proceed without their consent. In response, the government organized a series of summits to address concerns raised by Indigenous leaders, ranging from staunch resistance to enthusiastic support.
A landmark ruling in the Cowichan case in August established Aboriginal title for the Cowichan Tribes in a section of Richmond, British Columbia, where private homes were built on historic Indigenous land. This ruling, following an 11-year legal battle, raised questions about the coexistence of Aboriginal title and private property rights in Canadian law, with appeals pending.
Additionally, a complex civil trial involving Métis leaders concluded in March after nine weeks of proceedings, with federal officials testifying about alleged financial mismanagement within the Métis National Council. The trial resulted in a setback for the MNC and vindication for the Manitoba Métis Federation, with the court emphasizing the importance of resolving political disputes through democratic processes.
2025 was a year marked by legal battles, political shifts, and significant rulings that underscored the ongoing challenges and progress in Indigenous affairs.