The International Joint Commission is an independent, impartial, international organization created by the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909 between Canada and the United States to assist the two federal governments in the prevention and resolution of disputes regarding the use of boundary waters. The IJC welcomes the collaboration of Indigenous Peoples who have lands, right or interests in Canada-US transboundary basins where the Commission has a mandate.
The IJC’s activities vary from basin to basin, as do the structures for engagement and participation. The IJC regularly gathers input from interested parties on matters under its consideration, such as Orders and References. Through the IJC’s normal course of work, it holds various hearings and public meetings that are open to all, including First Nations, the Métis Nation and Tribes. The IJC also may appoint Indigenous members to serve on its boards, committees and advisory groups.
The IJC, as a binational organization created and guided by the Boundary Waters Treaty, is not part of the Canadian Crown, and accordingly is not subject to, and cannot fulfill, the Crown's Duty to Consult.
Further information about the IJC’s Indigenous collaboration and engagement activities is available through the links in the sidebar.