Perspectives on a multi-government Marine Protected Area network from a non-signatory First Nation: Lax Kw'alaams and the Northern Shelf Bioregion

States are implementing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) networks, a collection of MPAs across a larger scale, to meet international conservation targets. Many designated MPAs are and have always been the territories of Indigenous Peoples. However, the extent of recognition of Indigenous rights and territories varies. Canada, a settler-colonial state, is aiming for a collaborative approach to MPAs. This paper focuses on the process of establishing the Northern Shelf Bioregion MPA network in British Columbia, which positions participating First Nations as multi-governance partners. However, the network is not endorsed by all coastal First Nations. This paper highlights the perspectives of one non-signatory Nation, Lax Kw'alaams. Interviewees raised concerns that the establishment of the network will impact cultural, economic, governance, and social aspects of their wellbeing as the ocean is integral to the lives and livelihoods of Ts'msyen people. Interviewees felt that impacts will be exacerbated as Lax Kw'alaams owns the only locally run, community-owned fish processing plant of its kind in BC. For interviewees, the right to self-determination underpins ocean management and Canada must recognise that Nations have heterogenous interests, access, and equity needs. They suggest that multi-governance agreements consider how non-signatory Nations can contribute to processes that impact their territories to ensure that their rights and voices are upheld.