Understanding our Government

Do you have questions about how Canadians govern themselves?

Canada is a parliamentary democracy with three levels of government elected by Canadian citizens. Each level of government has its own specific roles and responsibilities.

The Government of Canada

The national or federal government makes laws for the entire country and is responsible for areas of national interest such as immigration, defence and trade with other countries.

  • Learn more about the Canadian government and the rights and freedoms enjoyed by all Canadians on the Government of Canada website.

 

The Government of British Columbia

B.C. is one of Canada’s 10 provinces. Each province has its own powers that cannot be altered by the federal government. These responsibilities include education, highways and hospitals.

  • Discover Your Legislature can help you learn more about the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, the many people who make up the Legislative Assembly and the role of the Legislative Assembly in the democratic governance of British Columbia.

 

Local Governments

The government of a city, town or village is called a municipal government. This level of government is responsible for local services, such as fire protection, city streets and recreation (parks and community centres). Local governments in B.C. include municipalities, regional districts, special purpose districts and local boards and agencies.

 

The Charter of Rights and Freedoms

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, or “the Charter”, guarantees political and civil rights for all people in Canada. It was signed into law by Queen Elizabeth II of Canada on April 17th 1982.

Your rights and freedoms while in Canada will be protected by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. It was introduced to protect people from discrimination based on race, sex, age, skin colour, religion, disability or sexual orientation.

The Charter came into effect on April 17, 1982. It safeguards and guarantees:

  • freedom of expression
  • a democractic government
  • your right to live and seek employment anywhere in Canada
  • a lawyer and legal representation if you are accused of a crime
  • Aboriginal peoples’ rights
  • equality between women and men
  • your right to use either of Canada’s official languages
  • the right of French and English people to an education in their own language
  • protection of cultures and traditions from other parts of the world inside Canada (multiculturalism).

Related Resources:

For more information about Canada’s system of government, please see the
British Columbia Newcomers’ Guide.