Indigenous Systems
3 case studies
Indigenous governance models often embody PSC principles that predate Western institutions. These systems demonstrate non-extractive capital flows, local alignment, and multi-generational regeneration grounded in cultural continuity.
Theory Connection: Indigenous systems show that PSC is not a Western invention but a universal pattern. Whānau Ora demonstrates funds flowing to families (not agencies), outcomes governed locally (high Λ), and the lowest fragility social system design known—because extraction was never the goal.
First Nations Land Management
The First Nations Land Management Act allows Indigenous communities to opt out of the Indian Act's colonial land provisions and create their own land codes. Over 200 First Nations have done so, gaining control over land use, environmental protection, and economic development on their territories. Communities can lease land, develop resources, and make decisions without federal approval. It's an example of incremental sovereignty—not full self-government, but meaningful control over a critical domain.
- 200+ First Nations participating
- Opt-out from Indian Act land provisions
- Community-created land codes
Māori Incorporations & Trusts
Māori incorporations and trusts manage collectively-owned tribal lands and Treaty settlement assets. Ngāi Tahu, the South Island iwi, has grown Treaty settlements from $170M (1998) to $2B+ in assets while distributing hundreds of millions to members and tribal development. These entities operate with intergenerational mandates—decisions are made considering impacts seven generations forward. They demonstrate indigenous governance principles creating sustainable economic power.
- Tribal ownership of land and assets
- Intergenerational mandates (7 generations)
- Treaty settlement management
Whānau Ora
Whānau Ora (family wellbeing) represents a fundamental inversion of social services: instead of funding agencies to serve families, funds flow directly to whānau (extended families) who determine their own priorities and navigate their own solutions. Commissioning agencies provide support but families have agency. The model emerged from Māori critique of extractive social services and embodies tikanga (Māori values) of collective wellbeing and self-determination. It's the lowest fragility social system design known.
- Funds flow to families, not agencies
- Whānau-determined priorities and outcomes
- Navigator support without control