Business Ethics
10 Societal Expectations and the 92nd Call to Action
Learning Objectives
- Apply and interpret the societal expectations and the duty to commit to meaningful consultation to gain support for economic opportunities.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the 92nd call to action and what this means in the business sector.
When Industry considers future development opportunities in British Columbia, it will be essential to recognize that First Nations people are interested in economic opportunities for their communities and have “the right to maintain and develop their political, economic and social systems or institutions, to be secure in the enjoyment of their own means of subsistence and development, and to engage freely in all their traditional and other economic activities” (UN General Assembly, 2007, Article 20). This is guaranteed by UNDRIP and under section 35 of the Constitution. Indigenous people want to prosper just like any other Canadians as long as their rights are upheld and considered in the decision-making process.
There has been a significant shift in societal expectations of business practices due increased concerns about environmental impact. There are mounting pressures on Industry to meet these expectations or lose their support to operate. If societal licence is not received, communities and individuals may push back and reject a project. This shift creates an environment that encourages new connections between industrial proponents, First Nations, and the communities affected by proposed projects. As a result, the way Indigenous communities participate in industrial projects has evolved. Initially, Nations might receive royalties, including sums of money provided as payment for projects on First Nations territory.
However, this form of compensation does not involve any direct participation by the affected First Nation. Impact and Benefit Agreements (IBA) were created to rectify the problem of a lack of First Nations involvement in the decision-making of a project. According to an article on IBAs by SHK Law Corporation, an IBA is a contract that “outline[s] the parameters of the project, the commitment and responsibilities of both parties, and how the First Nations will share in benefits of the operation.” The significance of this shift is in the level of participation and responsibilities from both parties. More recently, there has been a shift toward integrated management. Federal, provincial and First Nation governments are coming together to discuss issues nation to nation and with other stakeholders. This collaboration brings First Nations interests to the table to address both environmental sustainability and economic prosperity.
Call to Action 92
I want to get rid of the Indian problem. I do not think as a matter of fact, that this country ought to continuously protect a class of people who are able to stand alone. That is my whole point…. Our object is to continue until there is not a single Indian in Canada