Commission finds Canadian mining practices could violate Southeast Alaska tribes’ human rights

Key Points

• The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has determined that mining practices in British Columbia could violate the fundamental human rights of communities and tribes in Southeast Alaska, marking a significant development in the ongoing effort by Southeast Tribal leaders to have a say in permitting Canadian mine projects.
• Southeast communities and tribal governments in Alaska, as well as the state’s congressional delegation, have expressed concerns about mining practices in British Columbia, particularly in areas with “transboundary” watersheds that flow from Canada to Southeast Alaska.
• The international human rights complaint filed by the Southeast Alaska Indigenous Transboundary Commission (SEITC) cites three main human rights violations: threats to the life and personal security of downstream communities, potential harm to health and well-being through food security and clean water concerns, and harm to the cultural benefits of Southeast tribes due to potential river pollution caused by mines. The complaint could influence how the Canadian government and British Columbia approach mining practices, though compliance with the commission’s recommendations is not legally binding but could impact Canada’s reputation and investor sentiment. A final finding is expected early next year after responses from Southeast tribes and the Canadian government.