Amnesty International, a global human rights organization, has expressed concerns about Canada’s approach to Indigenous rights under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney and his Liberal government. The organization’s latest annual human rights report, released on Monday, highlights the potential erosion of Indigenous peoples’ self-determination due to recent legislation fast-tracking major projects and expanding resource development.
Ketty Nivyabandi, the secretary general of Amnesty International Canada’s English section, emphasized a perceived regression in Indigenous rights, stating that Canada is moving backward rather than forward in this regard. Amnesty International has voiced support for Indigenous nations and civil society groups opposing legislation such as Carney’s Building Canada Act in Ontario and British Columbia.
The report coincides with ongoing concerns raised by First Nations, with the Assembly of First Nations declaring that National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak will address the situation in British Columbia at the United Nations this week. Woodhouse Nepinak emphasized that Canada and British Columbia must uphold First Nations’ human rights to maintain their international standing.
British Columbia’s proposal to suspend key provisions of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples sparked controversy, particularly among Indigenous communities. Criticism also arose last summer over the Liberals’ major projects law, drawing parallels to the Idle No More movement of 2012. In response to the backlash, Carney initiated summits to address Indigenous concerns and reassured leaders that their rights would be respected during the implementation of legislation.
Despite these efforts, Nivyabandi cautioned that the government’s focus on economic growth and national security should not overshadow its commitment to human rights, especially for marginalized communities. She highlighted the importance of Canada maintaining a strong stance on human rights without compromising those most vulnerable.
While Amnesty International acknowledged positive aspects of Carney’s global initiatives, Nivyabandi urged the newly majority-elected Liberals to prioritize human rights amid their defense spending increases and economic expansion efforts. CBC Indigenous has reached out to the federal government for comments on these developments.