Case Study Analysis of Bill C-61: Supporting Indigenous Relationality to the Waters Through the Co-development of Federal Legislation

Authors

• Joyce Ji
• Dr. Nicole J. Wilson
• Colleen James

  Abstract

  This study examines the co-development of federal legislation through a case study analysis of Bill C-61, the First Nations Clean Water Act. Co-development, as a method to support Indigenous water governance, aims to advance Nation-to-Nation relationships, Indigenous self-determination, and shared decision-making. This study explores key themes of co-development, including trust-building, consent, accountability, and reconciliation, while also identifying preconditions necessary to enable the co-development of legislation. Through a case study and document analysis, this research evaluates the effectiveness of Bill C-61 as a ‘co-developed’ legislation and its applicability to broader co-developed water legislation. Findings contribute to ongoing discussions on enhancing legislative co-development practices to uphold Indigenous rights and promote equitable water governance.

  Poster

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