Realizing Indigenous Rights in the Context of Extractive Imperialism:

Abstract

Canada’s reputation as a global champion of human rights has been tarnished by the revelation of the enduring colonial impact and social and economic disparities endured by Indigenous peoples within Canada. While Canada has a strong legal framework for Indigenous rights, its significant and enduring policy and implementation failures are increasingly recognised by both domestic and international bodies. This article addresses Canada’s shifting yet fledgling progress towards the harmonisation of Canadian domestic law and the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The pathway to reconciliation and sustainable development for Canada is discussed as rights-based resource governance in contrast to Canada’s current imposition of extractive imperialism in both Canada and Latin America.