Review of Graham White, Indigenous Empowerment through Co-management: Land Claims Boards, Wildlife Management, and Environmental Regulation (UBC Press: 2020)

David Wright

doi:10.23865/arctic.v12.3465

Abstract

Graham White’s recent book, entitled Indigenous Empowerment through Co-management: Land Claims Boards, Wildlife Management, and Environmental Regulation, is a balanced, accessible, and honest discussion of a very complex realm of Crown-Indigenous relations and institutions in Canada. The book is very well researched and clearly communicated by one of Canada’s leading experts on the topic. Co-management has been the subject of scholarly attention for many years in Canada; however, perspectives vary widely with respect to appropriateness and effectiveness. White’s book is a bold project that tackles the complexities, sensitivities, and diverse contexts head-on. It ought to be at the top of the reading list for all academics, practitioners, and government officials with an interest in modern treaties.

Highlights

Review of GrahamWhite, Indigenous Empowerment through Co-management that is comprised of a complicated tapestry of modern treaty contexts that may at first blush appear similar but are vastly different
White approaches the co-management experience through a broad primary research question: Do boards established by land claims agreements enable Indigenous peoples to exercise substantial influence over the land and wildlife policies so crucial to them?7 In engaging in this analysis and answering the question, White draws on his decades of scholarly and practical experience with land claims agreements, including many different co-management regimes and associated organizations and individuals
White demonstrates a depth of knowledge held by very few regarding the devolution of government powers to the territories and the complicated formal decision-making arrangements in land claims contexts

Summary

Introduction

Review of GrahamWhite, Indigenous Empowerment through Co-management that is comprised of a complicated tapestry of modern treaty contexts that may at first blush appear similar but are vastly different.

Results

Conclusion