It was established by the Government of British Columbia in 2015 to recognize those who have “acted in a particularly generous, kind or selfless manner for the common good without expectation of reward".

[1] It is broadly modelled upon the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship, but without the latter’s requirement of long-term commitment or its strong emphasis upon volunteerism.

An additional important distinction is that the British Columbia Medal of Good Citizenship may be bestowed upon communities as well as individuals.

Recipients’ names, photographs and places of residence are listed on a Provincial website, as well as synopses of their respective civic achievements.

Judges and elected federal, provincial or municipal representative are not eligible for nomination while such person remains in office.