The application of the concept of 'citizens plus' to status Indians in Canada

Abstract

This thesis considers the application of a differentiated citizenship to status Indians in Canada. The topic is studied both normatively and empirically. The thesis reviews how the concept of citizenship has evolved through the thought of modern liberal theorists, such as T.H. Marshall, Will Kymlicka and Charles Taylor. Some recent work concerning citizenship in Canada recommends that the state ought to extend differentiated citizenship rights to certain groups, such as status Indians in Canada. This thesis argues that the Canadian state is already extending differentiated citizenship rights to status Indians. It examines some of the components of this differentiated citizenship regime, such as Aboriginal and Treaty rights.