According to the definition given by government of Canada, “First Nation People” refers to status and non-status “Indian” people in Canada. Yet, between First Nation and Canadian government, there are several conflicts in terms of citizen rights, lands, resources, environment, etc. In this sense, First Nations partner issues, as a political and social factor, have influence over many business and organizations in Canada.

This can be best illustrated by the example of BC Hydro’s 8-billion-dollar Site C hydroelectric mega-project. In order to enlarge the production of hydroelectricity, BC Hydro planed to construct a dam on the Peace River. This construction, on behalf of First Nation people, however, will destroy farmland and effect on fishing, hunting and organizing traditional ceremonies. So for the sake of aboriginal people, B.C. First Nation Chiefs have fought for their own right (i.e. to urge the government to reject the dam construction). Obviously, BC Hydro currently cannot continue their construction as what it planed because the protest of first nation has delayed or even cancelled the schedule of the dam construction. This just proved that the external factors (in this case, external factors are political and economic factors) enact great impact on the business. More specifically, BC Hydro now needs to find another river to construct a dam, which will probably cost much more. For the corporation, the key resources are harder to reach and fixed cost are accordingly increasing.

However, respecting the right of First Nation is ethical correct. Otherwise, if BC Hydro ignored the rights of First Nation and constructed the dam, their business reputation, brand image and even customer loyalty would be negatively influenced. So considering the external factors and social environment is a necessary process of decision making to every business and corporation.

Work Cited:

O’Neil, Peter.  First Nations chiefs to stage Site C showdown.  Vancouver Sun.  September 18, 2014.  Newspaper Article.

Pynn, Larry.  BC Premier urges cooperation.  Vancouver Sun.  September 12, 2014.  Newspaper Article.