Implementing Indigenous and Western Knowledge Systems in Water Research and Management (Part 1): A Systematic Realist Review to Inform Water Policy and Governance in Canada

Authors

  • Heather E Castleden Queen's University - Kingston, Ontario
  • Catherine Hart Queen's University
  • Sherilee Harper University of Guelph
  • Debbie Martin
  • Ashlee Cunsolo Labrador Institute of Memorial University
  • Robert Stefanelli Queen's University
  • Lindsay Day University of Guelph
  • Kaitlin Lauridsen Dalhousie University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18584/iipj.2017.8.4.7533

Abstract

Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis/Metis) peoples in Canada experience persistent and disproportionate water-related challenges compared to non-Indigenous Canadians. These circumstances are largely attributable to enduring colonial policies and practices. Attempts for redress have been unsuccessful, and Western science and technology have been largely unsuccessful in remedying Canada’s water-related challenges. A systematic review of the academic and grey literature on integrative Indigenous and Western approaches to water research and management identified 279 items of which 63 were relevant inclusions; these were then analyzed using a realist review tool. We found an emerging trend of literature in this area, much of which called for the rejection of tokenism and the development of respectful nation-to-nation relationships in water research, management, and policy.

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Published

2017-10-11