Since time immemorial, First Nations have been stewards of the lands, waters and ice. First Nations and the Government of Canada are working together to jointly advance efforts to address climate change.
Today, the First Nations-Canada Joint Committee on Climate Action (JCCA) released its sixth annual report to the Prime Minister and the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN).
The JCCA met several times in 2023, with each meeting offering an opportunity to strengthen relationships, share collective aspirations to advance First Nations climate leadership, improve federal climate policy and programming and take stock of the JCCA's accomplishments since 2017.
The Annual Report highlights the positive steps taken toward a building a stronger and more transparent climate partnership; one which includes meaningful opportunities for First Nations to influence the design of federal climate change programs and initiatives. It also highlights areas where further efforts are needed to guide and strengthen the JCCA's future activities. In particular, the JCCA remains focused on accelerating First Nations' full and effective participation in Canada's clean growth and climate change programs, including the implementation of Canada's National Adaptation Strategy.
In a year marked by devastating floods, fires and smoke that severely impacted many First Nations across the country, the JCCA shared and discussed mitigation and adaptation priorities. Key areas of focus included federal efforts to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, the release of the AFN National Climate Strategy, and ongoing efforts to strengthen the federal government's adherence to best practices and guidance developed by the JCCA to promote First Natios climate leadership.
Collaborative efforts continue towards the implementation of a dedicated JCCA website to improve transparency, accountability and engagement and to encourage intergenerational and intersectional dialogue on climate change.
For 2024, the JCCA has committed to making progress on the following five priorities:
- Advancing First Nations Climate Leadership.
- Continuing to develop First Nations-specific indicators and criteria to report on the implementation of climate-related federal funding programs and outcomes for First Nations.
- Strengthening intergenerational and intersectional dialogue.
- Updating and reviewing the JCCA mandate.
- Enhancing transparency and broadening the reach of the JCCA.
The Government of Canada remains committed to engaging with First Nations as partners to inform the development and implementation of policies; and protect the environment for present and future generations.
