This chapter is part of the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (TCPS or the Policy), a joint policy of Canada’s three federal research agencies – the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).

As the chapter’s introduction notes: “First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities have unique histories, cultures and traditions. They also share some core values such as reciprocity – the obligation to give something back in return for gifts received – which they advance as the necessary basis for relationships that can benefit both Indigenous and research communities. Research involving Indigenous peoples in Canada has been defined and carried out primarily by non-Indigenous researchers. The approaches used have not generally reflected Indigenous world views, and the research has not necessarily benefited Indigenous peoples or communities. As a result, Indigenous peoples continue to regard research, particularly research originating outside their communities, with a certain apprehension or mistrust.” This chapter provides guidance for research with First Nations, Métis and Inuit people in Canada, with information on definitions, ethics, community engagement, collaboration, and working with Indigenous governments, organizations, Elders and knowledge keepers.