You are cordially invited to the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Environment, Lands & Water Branch fall dialogue sessions. This series of virtual dialogue sessions aims to advance First Nations’ inherent rights and to discuss ways that First Nations can fulfill responsibilities towards Mother Earth.
These virtual dialogue sessions will take place throughout the month of October and November and are based on four main themes.
Webinar #3: First Nations Waters: Marine Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas
Thursday, October 27, 2022 (12:00 to 4:00 p.m. EDT) – Registration Zoom Link
Background: Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) are seen as a means to further reconciliation and contribute to the Government of Canada’s conservation targets of protecting 25% of lands and waters by 2025 and 30% by 2030. Significant progress has been made since 2018 to support the ongoing establishment of IPCAs on land, however, work in marine areas continues to lag behind. Inconsistency in the Government of Canada’s support for IPCAs creates confusion and uncertainty for First Nations stewardship of marine and coastal territories. The AFN is mandated by the Chiefs-in-Assembly to advocate for a federal commitment to establishing marine IPCAs.
Objective: A virtual panel presentation and discussion with legal experts will explore legal means for First Nations to establish and recognize IPCAs in the marine and coastal environment, with an aim to identify solutions aimed at achieving long-term protection.