Strengthening Corporate-Aboriginal Relations: The Influence of Public Policies and Institutions

"Although they express optimism, Canadian executives see more barriers than enablers in the public policies and institutions that influence their economic relationships with Aboriginal people. Based on interviews with 33 private sector experts representing 26 companies in six industries, the report explores issues to do with land claims and treaty negotiations, the lack of coordination between the policies of governments, the lack of clarity about the political and economic objectives of government policies and programs, and the lack of a clear federal stand on issues such as treaty rights. Its recommendations include policy changes and a shift in the orientation of policy making. The report is the second in a series produced by the Board’s Aboriginal Economic Development Program (AEDP). Guided by an advisory network of corporate and government leaders and Aboriginal business leaders, the AEDP pursues research and networking initiatives that aim to engage Canadian business with Aboriginal people."