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Canada: Legislation to fast-track projects passed, Indigenous Peoples assess legal response
In June 2025, the Canadian Parliament passed Bill C-5, known as the “Building Canada Act,” which aims to accelerate the development of infrastructure and energy projects across the country.
The government states that the law is intended to streamline approval processes and support national economic and climate objectives.
However, a range of Indigenous organisations, legal experts, and civil society groups have expressed concerns that the Act may reduce environmental oversight and weaken requirements for consultation with Indigenous communities.
Some First Nations have indicated plans to challenge the legislation in court, mentioning potential conflicts with constitutional and international obligations.