What are comprehensive claims agreements commonly referred to as?

Comprehensive claims agreements are commonly referred to as modern treaties. This terminology reflects their scope and nature, distinguishing them from earlier agreements that may have been made under different circumstances or frameworks. Modern treaties typically address the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples in a comprehensive manner, covering land claims, governance rights, resource management, and other essential areas that affect Indigenous communities today.

The designation of these agreements as "modern" indicates that they arise from contemporary negotiations and frameworks aimed at addressing historical injustices and providing a basis for the coexistence of Indigenous and non-Indigenous societies within Canada. They often represent a more formalized, structured approach to treaty-making that includes mutual recognition of rights and self-determination for Indigenous groups, unlike historical treaties that may not have fully reflected current understandings of Indigenous rights or engaged Indigenous communities in meaningful negotiations.

While historical treaties, traditional agreements, and legal settlements each have their respective contexts and implications, it is the term "modern treaties" that accurately captures the intent and framework of comprehensive claims agreements in the present legal landscape.