Organization Profile - International Joint Commission

Minister of Foreign Affairs

The International Joint Commission is an independent binational organization established by the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909. Its purpose is to help prevent and resolve disputes relating to the use and quality of boundary waters and to advise Canada and the United States on related questions. Canada and the United States created the International Joint Commission because they recognized that each country is affected by the other's actions in lake and river systems along the border. The two countries cooperate to manage these waters wisely and to protect them for the benefit of today's citizens and future generations.

Ottawa, Ontario

International Boundary Waters Treaty Act

Each national section of the International Joint Commission is composed of three Commissioners, one of whom acts as Chairman of the section.

The Canadian section consists of three Commissioners appointed by GIC for a term at the Prime Minister's discretion. The Commissioners shall appoint a Chairman from amongst themselves.