A rights-based approach to indigenous women and gender inequities in resource development in northern Canada

Abstract

In recent years, there has been an influx of investment in the Arctic, particularly in relation to the extractive industries. Yet in spite of their economic potential, extractive industry projects come with considerable social and environmental risks for northern indigenous communities. Within these communities, the associated challenges of resource development are felt most acutely by women; however, there is a lack of research and analysis concerning the gendered dimension of resource development in northern Canada through the lens of indigenous women’s human rights. This article proposes the adoption of a rights-based approach to address this issue, suggesting that such an approach can provide a coherent framework for enhancing the inclusion and well-being of indigenous women in resource development, helping to ensure that Canada meets its human rights and constitutional obligations while furthering its commitment to reconciliation with indigenous peoples.