In a significant development that marked the conclusion of 2025, the Canadian government persisted in legal battles against Indigenous communities, particularly regarding its obligation to provide essential services to Indigenous children. The year began and ended with Ottawa challenging court orders related to the Jordan’s Principle initiative, resulting in repeated defeats for the government.
At the outset of the year on December 20, 2024, the Trudeau administration initiated a legal challenge against the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal to contest a ruling mandating action on a backlog of requests under Jordan’s Principle. Fast forward to December 15, 2025, the Carney government faced a groundbreaking Jordan’s Principle case at the Federal Court of Appeal and suffered another loss, reinforcing the government’s legal responsibilities.
Throughout the year, besides the ongoing legal battles, there were significant shifts in Indigenous political dynamics. Notably, the challenges within the Jordan’s Principle program persisted due to a growing backlog of requests, exacerbated by the implementation of controversial amendments by Indigenous Services Canada. These changes caused disruptions, with reports of programs like a suicide prevention initiative in the Cree community of Kashechewan being halted, and families facing funding cuts for essential services.
Moreover, the year witnessed substantial political changes in Ottawa under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney. His government faced criticisms from Indigenous leaders for proposed actions like pipeline projects and fast-tracking initiatives without adequate consultation. This led to tensions and demands for inclusivity, culminating in the Assembly of First Nations’ resolution calling for the withdrawal of agreements related to energy development projects.
Another significant event in 2025 was the Cowichan ruling by a B.C. Supreme Court judge, granting Aboriginal title to lands in Richmond claimed by the Cowichan Tribes, marking a pivotal moment after years of legal proceedings. The aftermath of the ruling raised questions about the coexistence of Aboriginal title and private property rights, signaling the potential for further legal challenges.
Furthermore, the Métis political landscape saw a complex civil trial concluding with a verdict favoring the Manitoba Métis Federation over the Métis National Council, highlighting internal disputes and financial mismanagement allegations within Métis leadership. The legal outcome underscored the need for transparent governance and accountability within Indigenous organizations.
As 2025 drew to a close, these events underscored the ongoing complexities and challenges in Indigenous politics, legal frameworks, and governance structures, shaping the trajectory of Indigenous relations with the Canadian government and society at large.