Strengthening Communication & Engagement:
Líl’wat Nation Government Policy

EcoPlan worked with Lil’wat Nation to develop a Government Communication and Engagement Policy that ensures clear, consistent, and culturally grounded dialogue between the Nation’s government and its citizens. As with many Indigenous governments facing communication and engagement challenges, this policy goes well beyond the current best practice approaches (e.g., IAP2), and serves as a model for improving transparency, trust, and citizen engagement in governance. It provides a structured framework for decision-making, guiding how and when to inform, consult, involve, and collaborate with the community. The policy also integrates Líl̓wat values and traditional decision-making processes, ensuring that engagement is efficient, effective and culturally meaningful.

This work is critical for Indigenous governance and is particularly relevant to other governments seeking to strengthen relationships with their citizens, avoid engagement fatigue, and align communication strategies with community priorities. By prioritizing clarity, accessibility, and respect for traditional knowledge, this initiative supports staff and empowers citizens to take an active role in shaping their future.