Appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE)

October 28, 2025

Portfolio overview
Development landscape
Top issues
Programming areas
Canada’s International Assistance in the Middle East
Canada’s international assistance in Africa
1. Canada’s approach to Africa
2. Canada’s assistance in Sudan
Canada’s international assistance in the Indo-Pacific
Canada’s international assistance in Latin America and the Caribbean
Canada’s international assistance in Europe
1. Canada’s support to Ukraine
Project profiles
1. Vietnam project profile - GAC-funded Oxfam Canada “GORice” International Assistance Project in Vietnam
2. Congo project profile – Beans for Women for Empowerment
Additional information

Portfolio overview

MINE’s mandate and role compared to MINA’s

Issue

In her capacity as the Minister for International Development, the Honourable Anita Anand has devolved authorities and assigned powers, duties and functions to the Secretary of State (International Development), the Honourable Randeep Sarai.

Responsive lines

Who makes the key decisions regarding the Government’s international development programs and funding?

As Secretary of State (International Development), I act on behalf of Minister Anand, the Minister for International Development, representing the Government in international forums, communications, managing program delivery, and spending. However, key decisions—such as Cabinet submissions and major funding proposals—require the Minister’s approval.

Given the broad responsibilities of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, why was it necessary to appoint a dedicated Secretary of State to oversee the international development and humanitarian assistance portfolio?

The supporting role of the Secretary of State (International Development) reflects the significant volume of work and international representation of the international development program. Management of this portfolio is divided to balance strategic leadership with operational focus. This ensures effective oversight, helping Canada deliver meaningful outcomes in international development and humanitarian assistance.

How does the Government ensure accountability and coordination in decisions related to international development assistance?

While I am not a Cabinet member, I work closely with Minister Anand, and all major decisions go through established approval processes, including Cabinet where necessary. I also support the Minister’s accountability to Parliament. This structure supports timely, coordinated, and accountable decision-making.

What measures are in place to guarantee transparency and responsible management of the Government’s international development efforts?

All programs and expenditures under my responsibility are subject to rigorous oversight and monitoring processes aligned with government standards. Transparency and accountability are essential to how we manage the Government’s international development efforts.

Releasable background

As both the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister for International Development (stylized as the Minister of Foreign Affairs), the Honourable Anita Anand has oversight of strategy and sets the policy direction for international development and humanitarian assistance. The Honourable Randeep Sarai is appointed by Order in Council (2025-0469) as the Secretary of State (International Development) to assist Minister Anand.

Minister Anand has devolved authorities and assigned powers, duties, and functions to Secretary of State Sarai. When exercising these powers, the Secretary of State (International Development) acts on behalf of the Minister for International Development. These authorities include representing Canada at international forums, managing communications related to international development and humanitarian assistance, overseeing and approving international development and humanitarian program and project spending, and performing legislative and parliamentary duties related to the international development and humanitarian assistance portfolio.

While the Secretary of State (International Development) manages day-to-day operations of the international development and humanitarian assistance portfolio and international representation, requests for new funding from the fiscal framework and key Cabinet decisions require the Minister of Foreign Affairs’ approval. Participation of the Secretary of State (International Development) in Cabinet or committees is at the Prime Minister’s discretion. All activities are shared with the Minister of Foreign Affairs to ensure coordination and oversight.

This delegation structure ensures clear roles and collaboration between the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Secretary of State (International Development), to support the effective management and delivery of the Government’s international development and humanitarian assistance portfolio.

International Assistance Envelope (IAE)

Issue

The International Assistance Envelope is the Government of Canada’s main funding instrument to support the Government’s international assistance objectives. It supports poverty reduction and sustainable development objectives through partnerships with civil society, multilateral organizations, academia, recipient country governments, philanthropies, and private sector organizations.

Responsive lines

What is the Government’s Canada’s position on supporting international development and humanitarian assistance in the context of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review?

The Government is undertaking a deliberate, long-term effort to improve efficiency and deliver better results for Canadians. Savings are being considered across all lines of business, including in international assistance. However, to date, no decisions have been made.

Rest assured that Canada will not turn its back on the world. We remain firmly committed to supporting those most in need, especially as global challenges intensify.

How does international assistance align with and protect Canada’s national interests?

The Government’s priority for international assistance is to ensure it reflects Canadian interests and values while remaining focused on addressing today’s global challenges.

Going forward, the Government’s approach to international assistance will feature a focus on advancing shared priorities with partner countries related to economic prosperity, inclusive growth, trade readiness, and private sector investment.

Supporting international development is primarily to support poverty reduction, not about choosing between helping others and helping ourselves. It is about recognizing that we live in an interconnected world, where global stability, health, and prosperity directly affect our own.

How does the Government ensure effective oversight and management of international development funds?

As one of the co-managers, I work closely with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Finance to ensure our resources are used wisely and effectively. This helps protect and advance Canada’s interests by promoting stability, reducing poverty, and fostering strong international partnerships.

Releasable background

In the midst of evolving Canadian priorities, the Government is reassessing and refocusing its international assistance approach. Going forward, Canada’s international assistance will be increasingly focused on supporting economic prosperity and trade, in line with Canadian and partner country priorities; advancing global stability and resilience; strengthening multilateral engagement and partnerships. The Government will also modernize its tools, including the International Assistance Envelope, to deliver more effective assistance.

The International Assistance Envelope is the Government of Canada’s main funding instrument to support federal government international assistance objectives. The International Assistance Envelope is governed by a Cabinet-approved Management Framework, which provides clear eligibility criteria and guidance on the use of International Assistance Envelope resources. It is co-managed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs (in this role and as Minister for International Development) and the Minister of Finance.

The International Assistance Envelope supports a wide range of programs delivered through federal departments, agencies, and Crown corporations, including both Official Development Assistance (ODA) and specific non-development activities such as peacebuilding, conflict prevention, counterterrorism, and anti-crime efforts. Importantly, it does not support militaries or provide lethal assistance.

The International Assistance Envelope is designed to be flexible allowing the Government to respond quickly to emerging global crises without compromising long-term international development goals and is structured around six thematic funding pools:

Core Development: Focuses on programs that support longer-term sustainable development and poverty reduction efforts, with most funding channelled towards low- and middle-income countries where the government engages.
International Humanitarian Assistance: Provides support based on urgent needs in line with humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality and independence.
Peace, Security and Governance: Supports Canadian and global peace, security and resilience responses to a range of potential threats. Funding from this pool is not limited to low- and middle-income countries.
International Financial Institutions: Contributes core funding to several International Financial Institutions (IFIs) which provide financial support, policy advice and capacity development to developing countries, to leverage new sources of financing for low- and middle-income countries, and as a means to maintain Canada’s influence of the governance of IFIs.
Crisis Pool ($200 million annual allocation): designed to provide timely and short-term responses to unforeseen international crises without disrupting investments in existing long-term programming.
Strategic Priorities Fund ($200 million annual allocation): a reserve allocated at the discretion of the Prime Minister to promote government leadership on issues of global and Canadian concern through development, humanitarian, security and stabilization, foreign policy and economic prosperity initiatives.

While Global Affairs Canada receives the largest share of the International Assistance Envelope, several other departments—including Finance, Environment and Climate Change, Public Safety, Immigration, and Natural Resources—as well as Crown corporations including the International Development Research Centre and FinDev Canada, also receive funding.

In recent years, the International Assistance Envelope has allocated exceptional resources in response to the COVID-19 global pandemic and Ukraine. Outside of these exceptional resource allocations, the International Assistance Envelope shows an upward trajectory since 2015-16, growing from $4.63 billion to an estimated $8.8 billion in 2023-24. Future year spending may be impacted by the overall fiscal situation, including the ongoing Comprehensive Expenditure Review.

Development portfolio financial overview

The initial 2025–26 development portfolio budget totals $4.6 billion, encompassing funding for core development initiatives in partner countries, contributions to international financial institutions, humanitarian assistance, and crisis response funding for disasters and emergencies abroad. This funding is primarily used to support poverty reduction, upholds international human rights standards and respond to humanitarian crises.

Responsive lines

What is the Government’s Canada’s position on supporting international development and humanitarian assistance in the context of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review?

The Government is undertaking a deliberate, long-term effort to improve efficiency and deliver better results for Canadians. Savings are being considered across all lines of business, including international assistance. However, to date, no decisions have been made.

Rest assured that Canada will not turn its back on the world. We remain firmly committed to supporting those most in need, especially as global challenges intensify.

How does the Government ensure effective oversight and management of international development funds?

The departmental due diligence process, aligned with the Treasury Board Policy on Transfer Payments, uses a risk-based approach to tailor administrative requirements, reducing the burden on both the department and recipients where appropriate.

What types of organizations receive funding to support the delivery of Programs under the Development portfolio?

In 2024-25, Canadian organizations received approximately 24% of development portfolio funding, while multilateral organizations received 61% and foreign partners received 15%.

How is Development portfolio spending distributed by region?

In 2024-25, Development portfolio spending was distributed as follows:

44% to Africa
21% to Asia
19% to the Americas
9% to the Middle East
5% to Europe
2% Global

How much is used to support Humanitarian Assistance and Crisis Response?

Within the Development Portfolio, there is approximately $609 million set aside on an annual basis to support humanitarian assistance. In addition, the department can access up to $200 million annually from the Crisis Pool.

Releasable background

The 2025-2026 Development Portfolio annual budget of $4.6 billion includes:

Core Development: Focuses on programs that support longer-term sustainable development and poverty reduction efforts, with most funding channelled towards low- and middle-income countries where the government engages.
International Humanitarian Assistance: Provides support based on urgent needs in line with humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality and independence.
International Financial Institutions: Contributes core funding to several International Financial Institutions (IFIs) which provide financial support, policy advice and capacity development to developing countries, to leverage new sources of financing for low- and middle-income countries, and to maintain Canada’s influence of the governance of IFIs.
Crisis Pool: designed to provide timely and short-term responses to unforeseen international crises without disrupting investments in existing long-term programming.
Strategic Priorities Fund: a reserve allocated at the discretion of the Prime Minister to promote government leadership on issues of global and Canadian concern through development, humanitarian, security and stabilization, foreign policy and economic prosperity initiatives.

According to preliminary data, Canada became the 7^thlargest donor in 2024, from 6^th the year before, and remained 15^th in terms of the ratio of official development assistance to GNI. Final statistics will be available in December 2025.

Canada’s preliminary official development assistance to GNI ratio decreased to 0.34% in 2024, from 0.38% in 2023. This is due to a decrease in official development assistance, combined with a growing economy.

Geographic distribution of international assistance funding for organizations across Canada

Global Affairs Canada assesses all funding proposals based on their relevance, anticipated impact, and alignment with Canada’s international assistance priorities, not on the size or location of the organization.
Our funding data for 2024-25, indicates that Global Affairs Canada provided more than $1.2 billion ($1,285,287,908.70) in funding for international assistance activities (including peace and security and humanitarian assistance) to 231 Canadian partners headquartered across nine provinces and one territory, averaging $3.5 million per organization.
Canada’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected through national outreach, streamlined funding processes, and capacity-building for small and medium organizations, notably through the Inter-Council Network, a coalition of eight Provincial and Regional Councils for International Cooperation.

Supplementary messages

Canadian organizations will remain important partners in advancing Canada’s international development priorities.
Canada is undertaking a deliberate, long-term effort to improve efficiency and deliver better results for Canadians - including a comprehensive spending review across every federal government, including Global Affairs Canada.
Savings are being considered across all lines of business, including international assistance. However, to date, no decisions have been made.
We remain firmly committed to supporting those most in need, especially as global challenges intensify.

Update

Partner funding data for 2024-25 indicate $1.28 billion in funding to 231 partners headquartered across Canada. The department continues to strengthen outreach and dialogue with Canadian civil society and private-sector organizations across all regions to promote equitable access to funding opportunities and ensure broad representation in Canada’s international assistance efforts.

Supporting facts and figures

Organizations in Ontario, Québec, and Manitoba represent the largest shares of GAC funding: $842.2 million to 138 partners, $266.4 million to 47 partners, and $94.9 million to 6 partners, respectively.
GAC’s support to 231 Canadian partners contributes to thousands of quality jobs across the country.
While GAC does not assess proposals based on organizational size or geography, several factors, including sectoral focus and partnership networks, may influence where organizations establish their headquarters.
The absence of funded partners in Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories reflects structural rather than policy-driven factors and is broadly consistent with CRA data on Canadian charities working internationally.
The two provinces with the highest number of registered charities active in international cooperation are BC with 133 organizations and Alberta with 94 organizations.
In 2025, GAC senior officials met with stakeholders in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Québec, and Atlantic Canada to strengthen engagement with civil society, private sector, and philanthropic partners.
The Inter-Council Network continues to play a leadership role in convening more than 350 organizations across Canada to advance inclusion, innovation, and collective action.

Table: 2024-2025 fiscal year GAC funding by province

Province/Territory	Funding by province/territory	Number of partners by province/territory
Ontario	$842,242,407.56	138
Québec	$266,390,918.22	47
Manitoba	$94,976,942.00	6
Alberta	$51,153,186.80	11
British Columbia	$11,387,763.30	14
New Brunswick	$9,065,152.00	4
Nova Scotia	$5,829,000.00	5
Saskatchewan	$2,775,082.20	3
Nfld. and Labrador	$968,743.00	1
Yukon Territory	$448,713.80	1
Prince Edward Island	$49,999.82	1
Total	$1,285,287,908.70	231

Development landscape

Background

GAC applies transparent, merit-based criteria to all funding decisions, ensuring that small and large organizations are evaluated equally regardless of where they are based. Funding proposals are assessed on their relevance, anticipated impact, and alignment with Canada’s international assistance priorities. GAC also considers an organization’s capacity to deliver results effectively in complex contexts to ensure accountability and value for money.

GAC’s inclusive approach includes outreach during International Development Week, targeted programs for small and medium organizations, and capacity-building support delivered through the Inter-Council Network. This national coalition connects eight Provincial and Regional Councils that engage hundreds of organizations from coast to coast to coast.

While funding data reveal concentrations in larger provinces such as Ontario, Québec, and Alberta, these patterns reflect broader trends in the distribution of Canadian charities engaged in international cooperation. GAC’s funding processes remain fully open and accessible to organizations across Canada, ensuring that proposals from smaller or more remote communities are reviewed on equal footing.

This approach supports both Canada’s international development objectives and its broader economic diplomacy goals, reinforcing the role of Canadian expertise and innovation in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals globally.

Financing for development

Issue

Development finance is under acute pressure. Action is needed to mobilize all funding sources and reform the international financial architecture to meet developing countries’ evolving needs.

Responsive lines

The Government is working to unlock all sources of development financing – domestic and international, public and private – and to support a global financial system that’s better equipped to deliver results at scale.
Yes, shrinking aid budgets are a real challenge – but more money isn’t the only answer. We need to make better use of what’s already there and help countries build strong institutions and financial systems that support long-term progress.
Private investment is key to driving development. That means using limited public funds wisely and finding smart ways to share risk between governments and businesses to get more capital flowing where it’s needed, efficiently.
Under our G7 Presidency, we’re tackling barriers to private sector investment in developing countries by accelerating infrastructure projects and fostering an enabling environment for investors.
The Government is committed to ensuring the voices of developing countries are included in international financial discussions and we look forward to working with others in taking forward the commitments of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4).

Releasable background

Hard-won progress on development indicators has stalled in many countries as a result of compounding crises, while many traditional donors are adjusting their approaches and budgets amidst fiscal constraints and shifting priorities. At the same time, shrinking fiscal space – driven by rising sovereign debt, interest rates, and external shocks – is limiting developing countries’ ability to invest in sustainable development. There is an urgent need to modernize and optimize the international aid architecture to better respond to the evolving global landscape and mobilize additional sources of financing, including domestic resources and private capital.

The Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (July 2025), represented a pivotal moment in global efforts to reshape development finance. Canada and other like-minded partners viewed FfD4 and its non-binding outcome document, the Compromiso de Sevilla (Seville Commitment), as a notable accomplishment demonstrating the enduring value of multilateralism. You attended the first day of the conference as Canada’s Head of Delegation, where you reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to sustainable development and to building a more inclusive international financing system. You also announced several initiatives to mobilize sustainable investments in emerging markets.

Elements of the financing for development agenda also featured prominently under the priorities for Canada’s G7 Presidency. For example, Canada launched the Strengthening Partnerships for Financing Development and Shared Prosperity initiative to enhance MDB effectiveness and mobilize private capital, which included: $544 million in portfolio guarantees to the Inter-American and Caribbean Development Banks to unlock US$1.6 billion in financing; $290 million over five years for the International Assistance Innovation Program; and $101.3 million over five years to support private capital mobilization via technical assistance, project preparation, and de-risking tools.

Multilateral engagement in international assistance

Issue

Canada provides international assistance through multilateral organizations to reduce poverty and advance its foreign affairs, trade, security and development priorities, contributing to global stability and resilience.

Responsive lines

Multilateral programming plays a critical role in advancing Canadian national interests and safeguarding the health, security, and well-being of Canadians by addressing transboundary challenges at their source.
Strategic investments in areas such as global public health, climate resilience, humanitarian assistance, and crisis-driven migration help mitigate global risks that could otherwise have direct repercussions at home.
Multilateral partnerships also enable Canada to maintain a footprint and visibility in countries where it does not otherwise have a diplomatic presence, including in fragile and conflict-affected countries.
Canada works with multilateral partners, including United Nations organizations, global funds and International Financial Institutions, to achieve concrete development outcomes.
For example, through Canada’s support to UNICEF and the World Health Organization in 2024, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative has reduced polio cases worldwide, administering over 1 billion doses of polio vaccine in 36 countries and vaccinating more than 270 million children.

Releasable background

Canada remains committed to international development as a reflection of our values and a recognition that global challenges – from poverty to climate change – have real impacts on Canadians. A stable, equitable, and prosperous world is in Canada’s national interest.
Recent shifts within the multilateral sector have underscored the need to modernize the international aid architecture. Reform initiatives like UN80 or the Future of Development Commission offer potential to drive thoughtful, impact-oriented improvements—if they build on existing efforts and focus on effectiveness, not just cost-cutting.
In 2023-2024, Global Affairs Canada (GAC) provided $3.6 billion to approximately 75 global and multilateral organizations (65% of Global Affairs Canada’s international assistance funding overall). Canada’s top 3 multilateral partners in 2023-2024 were: the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; the World Food Programme and the Green Climate Fund.
Canada’s funding for multilateral organizations has increased over the last decade in response to global challenges in health (including COVID-19), climate finance, and humanitarian assistance.
Multilateral development banks make up a significant proportion of GAC’s funding through multilateral institutions, particularly given the role they play in infrastructure, private sector development and economic growth.

United Nations development system reform

Canada supports ongoing reform efforts across the United Nations (UN) system to increase the efficiency, effectiveness and accountability of the UN, including a United Nations development system that is focused on meeting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

In March 2025, The United Nations Secretary-General launched the UN80 initiative. This builds on 2018 UN development system reforms that positioned reform as a shared responsibility between Member States and the UN system and entities. UN development system reform centres on a reinvigorated and empowered Resident Coordinator system, allowing for UN country teams to deliver as “one UN” with more coherence, coordination, and accountability.

Responsive lines

Canada is committed to a coherent, coordinated, and resilient UN development system – one that responds to national development challenges under the leadership of empowered Resident Coordinators.
As a founding member of the UN, its 7^th largest financial contributor, and a UN host-state, Canada has long supported UN reform efforts, including UN development system reforms initiated in 2018 to strengthen coherence, efficiency, and accountability.
The launch of UN80 offers Canada the opportunity to shape a more effective and accountable UN fit to tackle global challenges and deliver on its mandate in areas of strategic importance to Canada, such as promoting human rights, democratic governance, and strengthening multilateralism.
During the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week, Canada engaged a broad range stakeholders on UN development system reform emphasizing the need for a principled and inclusive approach to UN80, guided by robust, data-informed processes.
Canada is committed to sustaining and deepening the gains of UNDS reform – advancing effectiveness, coherence, and accountability through the broader UN80 initiative.

Releasable background

The UN development system (UNDS) refers to 27 United Nations entities that carry out operational activities for development.
Canada partners with a number of UNDS entities aligned with Canada’s priorities - such as promoting Canadian principles, values, and norms across multilateral bodies; the UN’s work on human rights, good governance, and democratic elections; and global peace and security - using a range of voluntary funding modalities, notably providing long-term institutional support to key partners. This enables entities to deliver on their mandates, offering stability, predictability and flexibility to allocate funds where needed most, filling critical funding gaps and leading necessary innovations.
In 2018, the Secretary-General launched the reform of the UN development system, emphasizing reform as a shared responsibility between Member States (donors and programme countries) and the UN system and entities. UNDS reform centers on a reinvigorated and empowered Resident Coordinator (RC) system, and country teams, tailored to context, led by empowered and impartial RCs, delivering results under a shared strategic planning framework, with greater coherence, coordination, and accountability.
The UN Secretary-General launched the UN80 Initiative on March 11, 2025. This new reform initiative looks to:
- rapidly identify efficiencies in the UN’s ways of working;
- thoroughly review all mandates given by Member States; and
- undertake a deeper review of structural changes and programme alignment.
The third pillar addresses the organizational architecture of the UN system itself. It involves reviewing the form and function of UN entities through the creation of seven clusters: development (secretariat), development (programming), peace and security, humanitarian, human rights, training and research, and specialized agencies.
On September 18^th, the Secretary-General released his report on Workstream 3 entitled “Changing Structures and Realigning Programmes”. The report proposes several structural changes. A full analysis of the report and Canada’s positioning on the proposed changes is underway.

Changing international development landscape

Issue

The international development landscape is rapidly changing in the face of rising geopolitical competition, cuts to official development assistance, and shifting donor priorities.

Responsive lines

The international aid architecture is under strain due to donor budget reductions coupled with overlapping crises - conflicts, climate change, low economic growth – that have stalled or reversed development gains in many countries.
Against this backdrop, it is more important than ever to be strategic in where and how we invest so that our assistance is responsive to both humanitarian needs and long-term development goals.
The Government’s priority for international assistance is to ensure it reflects Canadian interests and values while remaining focused on addressing today’s global challenges.
Going forward, the Government’s international assistance will work to advance and identify shared priorities with partner countries related to economic prosperity, inclusive growth, trade readiness, and private sector investment.
The Government will also invest in initiatives that tackle the root causes of conflict and instability and that address global challenges.

Releasable background

The global development landscape is rapidly changing, and the international aid architecture is under tremendous strain. ODA is contracting, with the latest OECD projections (July 2025) showing a 9–17% decline in ODA in 2025, following a 9% decrease in 2024. This downward trend occurs as key donors reduce their aid budgets, citing domestic pressures and shifting foreign policy priorities. This decline is occurring amid rising geopolitical tensions, weakening multilateral consensus, and growing demands on global development institutions.

On the global stage, efforts are underway to modernize the aid architecture. Canada is engaged in key reform processes, including the UN80 Initiative, multilateral development bank reforms, the Future of Development Cooperation Coalition (Gates Foundation-led initiative), and the OECD-Development Assistance Committee (DAC) review process.

Canada’s international assistance - including impacts of U.S. and other donor aid cuts

Canada is reviewing how it delivers international assistance to ensure it reflects Canadian interests and values while remaining focused on addressing today’s global challenges.
Going forward, Canada’s international assistance will work to advance shared priorities with partner countries related to economic prosperity, inclusive growth, trade readiness, and private sector investment.
Canada will also remain responsive to global needs by investing in initiatives that tackle the root causes of conflict and instability and that address global challenges.

Supplementary messages

A government-wide spending review is underway; savings are being considered across departments and programs - no decisions yet made.
Canada will work with multilateral, Canadian, and local partners to deliver inclusive, sustainable outcomes aligned with national interests and shared partner priorities.

Supporting facts and figures

OECD projects a 9-17% decline in global official development assistance (ODA) in 2025, following a 9% drop in 2024, driven by cuts from major donors like France, Germany, the UK, and the U.S. (over 83% of U.S. aid projects canceled in 2025).
GAC receives over 65% of funding from the International Assistance Envelope (IAE), totaling $5.95 billion in 2023-24.
From 2019-20 to 2023-24, GAC’s aid focused on health (27%), climate/biodiversity (17%), humanitarian (17%), economic growth (11%).
Canada is among the top bilateral donors supporting investments in gender equality and empowerment of women and girls.

Background

The global development landscape is rapidly changing, and the international aid architecture is under tremendous strain. ODA is contracting, with OECD projections showing a downward trend as key donors reduce their aid budgets, citing domestic pressures and shifting foreign policy priorities. This decline is occurring amid rising geopolitical tensions, weakening multilateral consensus, and growing demands on global development institutions.

Within this context and in the midst of evolving Canadian priorities, the government is reassessing and refocusing its international assistance approach. Going forward, Canada’s international assistance will be refocused towards supporting economic prosperity and trade, in line with Canadian and partner country priorities; advancing global stability and resilience; strengthening multilateral engagement and partnerships; and modernizing our tools to deliver more effective assistance. On the global stage, efforts are underway to modernize the aid architecture. Canada is engaged in key reform processes, including the UN80 Initiative, multilateral development bank reforms, the Future of Development Cooperation Coalition (Gates Foundation-led initiative), and the OECD-Development Assistance Committee (DAC) review process.

Implications of U.S. foreign aid cuts on global international assistance

Issue

The U.S. has been the largest contributor of official development assistance, traditionally accounting for upwards of 30% of global official development assistance. Recent shifts in U.S. foreign aid policy have led to major reductions to its foreign aid programs and budget, as well as to the dissolution of the U.S. Agency for International Development and the integration of some of its functions into the State Department. The U.S. has also scaled back multilateral engagement, withdrawing from the World Health Organization, UN High Commission for Refugees, and UN Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

This is having profound impacts on countries and regions that have relied on U.S. aid for many years. Many civil society organizations, including Canadian organizations, have reported funding losses and are seeking alternative funding sources.

Responsive lines

Responsive: As the U.S. reduces its foreign aid, will Canada step in to fill this void?

The U.S. has historically been the largest provider of official development assistance. As such, Canada is not in a position to fill the void left by U.S. cuts to its development program.
Going forward, the Government will refocus some of its international assistance programming to advance Canada’s economic and security interests.
This will be complemented by a continued commitment to poverty reduction, stability and working to address global challenges, as part of Canada’s long-standing commitment to a safer, more sustainable and more prosperous world.

Responsive: Is the U.S. the only donor country reducing its aid?

Many traditional donors are redefining their development strategies amid declining aid budgets and a changing world, prompting a shift toward more targeted and impactful funding approaches. The OECD forecasts an overall 17% drop in global Official Development Assistance in 2025.
Many of the most stalwart providers of Official Development Assistance have reduced their budgets in recent years.

Responsive: Will Canada’s international assistance be cut like the US?

The Government is undertaking a deliberate, long-term effort to improve efficiency and deliver better results for Canadians - including a comprehensive spending review across the federal government.
Savings are being considered across all lines of business, including in international assistance.
In undertaking this review, the Government remains firmly committed to supporting those most in need.

Responsive: If asked about the U.S. denunciation of the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals

The Government remains committed to the Sustainable Development Goals, advocating for their inclusion in key documents and declarations and will continue to implement the 2030 Agenda both domestically and internationally.
The Government will continue to collaborate with like-minded countries to uphold the majority view on advancing and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Responsive: What will happen to Canadian non-governmental organizations and their programs affected by US cuts?

Global Affairs Canada has been in contact with Canadian non-governmental organizations to assess the impact and manage disruptions. Many organizations are redesigning programs and seeking alternative partnerships to fill the gaps.
To support small and medium-sized organizations, Canada has for example announced an investment of $38.5 million in the Inter-Council Network through the Local Impact, Global Transformation program.
It will support over 150 organizations in delivering innovative programs focused on gender equality, inclusion, and climate resilience.
It also includes capacity-building for over 400 leaders and their Global South partners

Releasable Background

While the government cannot fill the gap left by the reductions in aid spending by the U.S. and other major donors, Canada will continue to work with partners to carry out important humanitarian, peace and security, and development programs.

To support small and medium-sized Canadian non-governmental organizations, Canada launched the Local Impact, Global Transformation program in 2025 with a $38.5 million investment through the Inter-Council Network. The program supports over 150 organizations in delivering innovative, inclusive and climate-resilient programming, while also providing capacity-building for leaders and their Global South partners. Key components include capacity-building, testing development solutions, and institutional sustainability for local economic benefits.

Additionally, the government has committed $350 million in new humanitarian aid over two years to support responses in conflict zones and regions facing emergencies, reinforcing its role as a reliable partner in global development.

Examples of countries reducing their ODA:

France (35% reduction by 2025, further cuts expected in 2026);
Germany (31% cut proposed for 2025);
Japan (14% reduction in 2024);
Netherlands (2.8% decrease in 2024;
Sweden (13% cut projected for 2026)

Top issues

Canada’s International Assistance Policy

Issue

International assistance supports the social and economic development of developing countries, humanitarian response, and peace, security and governance. It forms part of Canada’s suite of tools to engage with the world and address global challenges.

Responsive lines

The Government’s priority for international assistance is to ensure it reflects Canadian interests and values while remaining focused on addressing today’s global challenges.
Going forward, the Government’s approach to international assistance will feature a focus on advancing shared priorities with partner countries related to economic prosperity, inclusive growth, trade readiness, and private sector investment.
The Government remains firmly committed to supporting those most in need, especially as global challenges intensify.

Releasable background

The challenges that developing countries face in their development – poverty, inequality, conflict, disasters, diseases – can have significant spillover effects globally and in Canada. By supporting partner country efforts to address these issues, international assistance contributes to Canadians’ national and economic security, prosperity and well-being.

International assistance also provides an entry point to strengthen bilateral relations with other countries and promote and protect Canadian interests in multilateral forums. It supports the social and economic development of developing countries, humanitarian response, peace and security, and governance.

In the midst of evolving Canadian priorities, the government is reassessing and refocusing its international assistance approach. Going forward, Canada’s international assistance will be increasingly focused on supporting economic prosperity and trade, in line with Canadian and partner country priorities; advancing global stability and resilience; strengthening multilateral engagement and partnerships. The government will also modernize its tools to deliver more effective assistance.

The International Assistance Envelope (IAE) is the Government of Canada’s main fiscal planning tool to support international assistance. In 2023-24, the IAE totalled $8.8 billion, of which $5.95 billion is allocated to Global Affairs Canada (GAC). Cumulatively, over the last five years, the top recipients of Canada’s international assistance have been Ukraine (mostly loans provided through the Department of Finance), Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Tanzania.

Tied aid

Top line messages

In 2008, the Government of Canada committed to untying all of Canada’s development assistance.
Our commitment is based on evidence that it leads to positive development outcomes, including economic growth and greater local ownership.
In light of the Government’s commitment to trade diversification, we will increasingly pursue partnerships founded on mutual economic benefit, which can be achieved without the need to tie our aid.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada ranks among the top-performing donors in terms of aid untying.
As of 2022, Canada reports 100% untied under the OECD-DAC Recommendation on Untying Official Development Assistance.
The OECD has long advocated for untying aid, emphasizing that untied aid improves efficiency, ownership, and alignment with recipient priorities.
The Government is exploring ways to align international assistance with Canadian economic interests—such as through strategic partnerships and support for Canadian businesses—while maintaining our commitment to development effectiveness and global impact. Much of this can be achieved without tying our aid.

Background

International assistance is considered tied when the procurement of a good or service is restricted to a country or limited group of countries.

In 2008, the Government publicly committed to untying all Official Development Assistance (ODA). Canada’s untied aid policy does not apply to all international assistance delivered by federal departments, only that which qualifies as ODA and is reported to the OECD-DAC.

By 2022, Canada reported 100% untying under the DAC Recommendation and 98.7% untied aid beyond the Recommendation. This is largely due to how Canadian ODA is delivered, primarily through grants and contributions to partners rather than direct procurement. Support to Canadian Non-Governmental Organizations and for private sector instruments (including FinDev and the International Assistance Innovation Program) are reported as untied as these activities do not involve direct procurement by the Government and include a clause for partners to use competitive bidding for procurement.

Apart from the 2008 public commitment and the DAC Recommendation, current policies do not impede the Government’s ability to procure goods and services in a tied manner. Similarly, current policy frameworks do permit the deployment of international assistance in a variety of ways that will support Canadian economic and commercial interests, including through export credits. There are some general limitations to consider, such as Canada’s international trade obligations, which promote open competition and discourage practices that restrict procurement to domestic suppliers.

Comprehensive Expenditure Review (CER)

The Government is undertaking a deliberate, long-term effort to improve efficiency and deliver better results for Canadians.
Savings are being considered across all lines of business, including international assistance.
To date, no decisions have been made.

Supplementary messages

Canada remains firmly committed to supporting those most in need, especially as global challenges intensify.

Supporting facts and figures

The initial 2025–26 development portfolio budget totals $4.6 billion.
Funding encompasses core development initiatives in partner countries, contributions to international financial institutions, humanitarian assistance, and crisis response funding for disasters and emergencies abroad.
Funding is primarily used to support poverty reduction, upholds international human rights standards and respond to humanitarian crises.

Background

Canadian organizations (including small and medium organizations) active in international assistance

Issue

The Government of Canada works with Canadian organizations to advance its international development priorities in line with national interests.

Responsive lines

Global Affairs Canada ensures that international assistance provided through Canadian organizations reflects Canadian interests and values while remaining focused on addressing today’s global challenges.
Canadian organizations play an important role in advancing Canada’s reputation and interests around the world, helping to raise the visibility of Canada’s international assistance while forging partnerships to advance diplomatic and economic relations.
They also enhance the engagement of Canadians in international assistance, supporting initiatives that matter to them.
For example, over the past 30 years, Canada’s funding to Nutrition International has helped to avert 7 million deaths and prevent millions of people from suffering from anemia and childhood stunting – combatting poverty and paving the way for economic growth.

Releasable background

Global Affairs Canada (GAC) partners with Canadian organizations to:
- deliver international assistance programming;
- discuss policy, process improvements and innovations related to Canada’s foreign policy and international assistance; and,
- inform, inspire and involve people in and from Canada about the Government’s policy priorities and its international assistance work.
The Canadian international assistance sector is composed of organizations of various sizes and types, including civil society organizations, the private sector, universities and research institutions, foundations, Indigenous organizations, other government departments and crown corporations such as the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).
The sector engages in project implementation, research, advocacy, and the deployment of experts and volunteers, across a range of thematic areas such as health, climate change, economic growth, democracy, food security, and security and stabilization. Canadian organizations are active around the world, including in areas of conflict.
The sector reflects the diversity of Canadians; many organizations have linkages to specific geographic regions and share global knowledge, cultural and linguistic networks, which contribute to international assistance and business partnerships.
Canadian small and medium-sized organizations, including Indigenous partners, usually maintain long-standing relationships with local organizations and foster deep roots within local communities both in Canada and in partner countries.
In 2023-24, GAC partnered with approximately 185 Canadian organizations, of which 37 were small and medium-sized organizations (SMOs), with a total budget of $1.12 billion.
Between 2003 and 2024, international assistance funding to Canadian organizations totaled $19.32 billion, valued at approximately 20% of total international assistance funding.
Nutrition International was GAC’s top Canadian international assistance partner in 2023-24 (receiving $59M). Throughout 30 years, its programs have helped to avert 7 million deaths and prevent millions of people from suffering from anemia and childhood stunting.

Ensuring effectiveness of development assistance

The government ensures its international assistance is effective and responsible through rigorous due diligence and accountability mechanisms.
Assessing the financial capacity of partners is a key component of due diligence.
Performance monitoring and results-based management are central to the government’s approach to tracking progress and maximizing impact.
Transparent reporting and continuous learning help adapt and improve programming to deliver meaningful results.

Background

Canada’s international assistance aligns with OECD-DAC standards, reinforcing our commitment to transparency, effectiveness, and global accountability. Ensuring that international assistance dollars are spent wisely maintains public trust, achieves meaningful results, and upholds Canada’s reputation as a responsible donor.

Due Diligence and Risk Management: The government conducts due diligence before entering into funding agreements with implementing partners. This includes financial assessments, organizational capacity reviews, and risk analyses to ensure partners identify risks early, and can manage public funds responsibly.

Accountability Mechanisms: The government enforces strong accountability frameworks through its funding agreements, audits, and compliance checks. Funding agreements are carefully structured to reinforce accountability and clarify performance expectations, and partners are required to adhere to financial reporting standards and ethical conduct, including anti-corruption and fraud prevention measures.

Performance Monitoring and Transparency: The government employs a results-based management approach to monitor project, program/portfolio and corporate performance. It uses logic models, performance measurement frameworks, and monitoring/reporting on results complemented by field visits and third-party evaluations to strengthen oversight. Project results are shared publicly through platforms like the International Aid Transparency Initiative and Project Browser.

Results Reporting: Canada's International Assistance Report is published by Global Affairs Canada in accordance with the Official Development Assistance Accountability Act. It outlines how Canada’s international assistance addresses global challenges, including narrative and statistical components and progress towards policy outcomes. Global Affairs Canada’s Departmental Results Report tracks progress against planned development, peace and security outcomes, helping to ensure that Canada’s international efforts remain results-driven and responsive.

Continuous learning: Lessons learned from evaluations and monitoring activities are integrated into future programming.

Why Canada sends money overseas

Supporting international development isn’t about choosing between helping others and helping ourselves – it’s about recognizing that we live in an interconnected world, where global stability, health, and prosperity directly affect our own.
By addressing issues like poverty, inequality, and conflict in the Global South, Canada’s international assistance directly supports Canadians’ security, prosperity and well-being.
International assistance can also help us foster strategic partnerships, advance mutual interests, and opens doors to new trading opportunities and alliances.

Supplementary messages

International assistance is a key component of the Government of Canada’s wider foreign policy toolkit, providing an entry point to strengthen bilateral relations with other countries and promote and protect Canadian interests in multilateral forums.
Canada’s international assistance tackles drivers of fragility and instability – poverty, weak governance, lack of access to education and social exclusion – contributing to inclusive and sustainable development that aligns with both Canada’s values and long-term national interests.
Canada is also making a difference as a key humanitarian donor. For example, the government’s humanitarian assistance in 2023-2024, provided through trusted humanitarian partners, contributed to protecting and assisting over 19 million refugees and internally displaced people worldwide.
Canada takes measures to ensure our international assistance does not land in the hands of authoritarian or terrorist regimes, for example by using anti-terrorism and anti-corruption clauses in project agreements. The majority of Canada’s international assistance is not directed to governments but rather is delivered through trusted Canadian, international and local organizations.

Gender equality, including support for women’s rights organizations

Issue

Canada is committed to protecting and advancing our core values such as gender equality, human rights, and democracy. Investing in gender equality drives economic growth, reduces poverty and deepens social cohesion.

Responsive lines

Canada remains steadfast in advancing gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. As reaffirmed by Minister Anand at the UN General Assembly, gender equality is a core Canadian value we will continue to champion through our foreign policy and global partnerships.
Almost all of Canada's bilateral international development assistance integrates gender equality results.
Considering today’s economic challenges, Canada continues to advance gender equality through leadership in multilateral institutions and bilateral engagements – recognizing it is a prerequisite for sustainable economic growth among partner countries.
Canada is deeply concerned by the intense polarization of gender equality issues and the impact this has on delivery of international assistance and realization of rights around the world.

Releasable background

Canada’s Approach to Gender Equality

Investing in gender equality is a strategic response to global turbulence and geopolitical fractures. Persistent inequality, including gender-based violence, destabilizes communities and undermines security. A growing global backlash threatens decades of progress for women, girls and LGBTI+ people. Working with women’s rights organizations is one of the most effective ways to protect and advance gender equality because they often have lived experience and are therefore best-placed to effectively address inequality issues within their own communities.

Canada is a longstanding champion of gender equality through its international engagements, foreign policy, and international development assistance. As Canada adapts its international assistance approach to align to new government priorities, Canada remains committed to protecting and advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.

Women’s Voice and Leadership Program

Established in 2018, the Women’s Voice and Leadership Program provides multi-year, core and responsive funding to women’s rights organizations and LBTQI groups worldwide. In 2023, Canada expanded the program to include enhanced support for women’s rights organizations in crisis-and conflict-affected settings.

There are currently 23 Women’s Voice and Leadership projects globally. In Nigeria, the program has provided training to counter sexual and gender-based violence to over 68,000 students and 2,700 school staff, and supported 4,700 survivors.

The Equality Fund

With a $300 million founding contribution in 2019 from Canada, the Equality Fund provides core, flexible funding to women’s organizations globally. It leverages gender-lens investing and mobilizes resources from philanthropy and other donors, to address the global funding gaps. Since its inception, the Equality Fund has disbursed $100 million to 1800 partners in100 countries, while continuing to grow its investment portfolio, which is 100% gender-aligned.

Addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

Canada is a leader in addressing sexual and gender-based violence, including harmful practices such as child, early and forced marriage, and female genital mutilation/cutting. UNFPA estimates that for every $1 spent on preventing child marriage, there could be $33 in economic returns by 2050. In 2023-24, Canada reached over 40 million people with international assistance to address sexual and gender-based violence.

Sexual and reproductive health and rights

Issue

There is a growing global anti-gender movement, including against sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), which threatens well-established freedoms around a woman’s right to make her own reproductive decisions.

Canada’s leadership in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) builds on its longstanding commitment to reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health, introduced through the Muskoka Initiative for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (2010-2020/$6.5B commitment), followed most recently by the 10-Year Commitment to Global Health and Rights (2020-2030).

Canada’s support over the years contributed to decreased maternal and neonatal deaths through increased access to antenatal visits and postnatal care, improvement in access to and quality of health care services, improved family planning services, and the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections.

In 2023, Canada spent 5% of its ODA on SRHR. Globally, in 2023 (latest available data), Canada ranked 5th among top donors to SRHR and ranked 7th in its funding for SRHR as a percentage of total ODA allocations.

In 2023-2024, Canada’s support for SRHR included $702 million provided to a range of multilateral, international and Canadian partners.

Our SRHR investments deliver concrete results. For example, in 2024, Canada’s support to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Supplies Partnership – a multi-donor pooled fund – contributed to avert nearly 10 million unintended pregnancies, over 200,000 maternal and child deaths, 3 million unsafe abortions, and enabled 25 million women to access essential reproductive health services.

Responsive lines

Canada is a global leader in protecting and advancing the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women and girls.
Sexual and reproductive health and rights is a priority area for Canada because of the overwhelming evidence that demonstrates SRHR is key to advancing women’s health, gender equality, human rights, and supporting the empowerment of diverse groups of women and girls.
Ensuring universal access to SRHR not only advances gender equality but also fuels education, drives economic growth, and builds resilience, not only for women and girls, but for family members and across all of society.
Investing in SRHR is a smart, evidence-based, cost-efficient investment. Every $1 invested in family planning yields more than $8 in economic benefits for families and societies.
Our Canadian and international partners in the area of sexual and reproductive health and rights are achieving results and making a real difference in the lives of women, their families and their communities

Releasable background

Canada has long been a champion of the health and rights of women and girls, namely through the Muskoka Initiative for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (2010 – 2020), and more recently with the 10-Year Commitment to Global Health and Rights (10YC), which includes a strong focus on SRHR.
Canada is committed to supporting a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to SRHR as recommended in the 2018 Guttmacher Lancet report “Accelerate Progress – SRHR for all”.

Trade and development: Aligning international assistance with Canada’s economic interests

In the midst of evolving Canadian priorities, the Government is reassessing and refocusing its international assistance approach. Going forward, Canada’s international assistance will be increasingly focused on supporting economic prosperity and trade, in line with Canadian and partner country interests; advancing global stability and resilience; and strengthening multilateral engagement and partnerships. An integrated approach to trade and development can help build bilateral and commercial relationships, and more predictable environments for trade and investment, support implementation of trade agreements and strengthen collaboration with trading partners of the future.

Responsive: What is the plan for integrating trade and development policy and programming?

Going forward, the Government will refocus some of its international assistance programming to advance Canada’s economic and security interests.
Part of this refocusing will be in identifying bilateral partnerships where Canada’s trade, investment and supply-chain security objectives can be advanced.
This includes better integrating our development and trade objectives in partner countries, including in strengthening enabling environments, reducing trade and private sector barriers, and strengthening human capital and workforce development in sectors of shared interest.

Responsive: Will integrating Canadian interests with international assistance priorities involve tying Canada’s aid?

Integrating Canadian economic and trade interests with international assistance priorities does not necessarily involve tying Canada’s aid, as much of the work to improve the enabling environment for trade and investment does not involve direct support for Canadian companies.

Releasable background

Canada is reviewing how it delivers international assistance to ensure it reflects Canadian interests and values while remaining focused on addressing today’s global challenges.
Going forward, Canada’s international assistance will aim to advance shared priorities with partner countries in areas of economic prosperity, including inclusive growth, trade readiness, and private sector investment.
Canada’s approach to trade and development will enable us to be more strategic and agile in where and how we invest, and to more effectively deploy Canadian expertise to advance both trade and development objectives

Canada’s international assistance to countries such as China and Iran that shows up largely through multilateral organisations

Canada’s international assistance data shows support reaching countries such as Iran and China, primarily through multilateral organizations. This can raise questions about Canada’s rationale and strategic intent.

Principled Commitment to Multilateralism: Canada is a strong advocate for multilateralism. Supporting organizations like the UN, the World Health Organization, and the World Bank allows Canada to promote peace, security, human rights, and sustainable development, even in complex environments like China and Iran.
Global Challenges Require Global Responses: Issues like pandemics, climate change, and food insecurity transcend borders. Canada’s support to multilateral organizations working in countries like China or Iran helps address these shared challenges, contributing to global stability and resilience.
Upholding International Norms and Sanctions: Canada remains firm on its international obligations. Reimposing UN sanctions on Iran in response to nuclear proliferation concerns and imposing sanctions on individuals in China for human rights violations, demonstrates that multilateral engagement does not mean unconditional support.
Strategic Influence and Consensus Building: Funding multilateral organizations advances Canada’s interests and helps shape global norms, even in contexts where direct bilateral influence is limited. This is especially important where geopolitical competition is intense, such as China’s growing influence in multilateral bodies.
Targeting People, Not Governments: Aid delivered via multilateral channels focuses on vulnerable populations (e.g., women, children, refugees), ensuring humanitarian and development support reach those most in need, even in politically sensitive contexts.

Releasable background

The majority of Canada’s international assistance to China and to Iran is provided as a result of Canada’s core contributions to multilateral organizations and global initiatives. These contributions reflect a principled and strategic approach. They enable Canada to contribute to global solutions, uphold international norms, and support vulnerable populations, while maintaining accountability and influence.

Canada prioritizes transparency and results in its aid spending and multilateral organizations are subject to performance assessments and reporting. Global Affairs Canada does not have a dedicated bilateral development program for Iran or China.

Canada has a controlled engagement policy with Iran limiting relations to engagement on four key areas of focus, including human rights, consular, nuclear related issues, and regional security. Canada continues to enforce sanctions and restrictions where appropriate (e.g., Iran’s nuclear program, autonomous sanctions related to grave breaches of international peace and security, such as the transfer of weapons to Russia for the war in Ukraine, and gross and systematic violations of human rights, as well as the listing of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code), while supporting humanitarian efforts through United Nations mechanisms. These channels allow Canada to uphold international law and human rights standards.

Canada has also imposed sanctions on 14 individuals and one entity in China for their roles in serious human rights violations in that country. Canada continues to raise concerns over human rights in China bilaterally with Chinese interlocutors and in multilateral fora.

Through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), Canada supports small-scale projects in 124 countries, including in China, aimed at supporting local civil society in addressing local development needs. Total funding for CFLI projects in 2023-24 was under CAD $500,000 in China. CFLI projects focus on issues including inclusive governance, human rights, gender equality, and peace and security.

Conclusion

Canada is committed to multilateralism as a means to promote peace, human rights, and sustainable development globally. In an increasingly multi-polar world, Canada will advance its interests by working through multilateral platforms that safeguard its values and allow it to build pragmatic coalitions, balancing engagement with allies, emerging powers, and new actors. Multilateral aid contributes to global stability, which benefits Canadians.

Programming areas

Figures

In fiscal year 2023-24, Canada contributed $0.5 million in international assistance to Iran, $0.38 to North Korea and $14.6 million to China, primarily through multilateral channels.
All of the $0.5 million to Iran was provided through Global Affairs Canada through multilateral organizations. Of this, $0.2 million was humanitarian assistance.^{Footnote 1}
GAC’s 2023-2024 support to Iran was disbursed via Canada’s Fund for Local Initiatives: a specially designed fund providing modest funding for small-scale, high impact projects in ODA-eligible countries. 
Canadian support in the DPRK/North Korea is provided through experienced organizations on the ground, and not directly to the government.
All Canadian programming in the DPRK/North Korea is multilateral in nature, disbursed via organizations such as GAVI, UNICEF and the World Food Programme.
Of the $14.6 million to China, $12.9 million was provided through Global Affairs Canada, $1.6 million through Environment and Climate Change Canada, and less than $0.1 million through the International Development Research Center and other departments or agencies. The majority of the $12.9 million was provided through multilateral organizations, and in the energy, transport and storage, and general environmental protection sectors.
Canadian ODA in China is provided through experienced organizations on the ground, and not directly to the government. In fiscal year 2023-2024, the majority of GAC’s funding to China was disbursed via Canada’s Fund for Local Initiatives; a specially designed fund providing modest funding for small-scale, high impact projects in ODA-eligible countries.

(Source: DevData: Canada’s International Assistance Expenditures dashboard

Humanitarian assistance top line messages

In Fiscal Year 2024-2025, Canada provided $796^{Footnote 2} million to respond to the life-saving needs of those affected by conflict and natural disasters around the world.
Driven by new and increasingly protracted conflicts and natural disasters, over 300 million people need humanitarian assistance in 2025.
Canada will continue to respond by working through experienced humanitarian partners, including the UN, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and Canadian and international NGOs, to provide urgent humanitarian assistance where it is needed most.

Supplementary messages

Canada is committed to upholding and promoting respect for International Humanitarian Law, including the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers.

Update

As a result of major global funding cuts, the humanitarian system is undergoing significant reforms – under the umbrella of a ‘Humanitarian Reset’- to reaffirm the system’s core purpose: to protect and assist those most at risk during acute emergencies and prioritize life-saving assistance.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada remains a committed humanitarian donor, ranking 13th largest in 2024.
GAC’s top funded humanitarian partners for FY 2024-25 included:
World Food Programme (WFP) - $202 million.
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)- $94 million.
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) - $87 million.
UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) - $84 million.
In 2025, key humanitarian assistance responses include:
$104.5 million to address the urgent needs in Palestine, and $44 million to those affected in Lebanon; and,
$64 million to meet humanitarian needs in Sudan, and $105.8 million for neighbouring countries impacted by the Sudan crisis, including the Central African Republic, Chad, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Uganda;
Over $17 million to respond to urgent needs in Haiti.

Background

Over the last decade, the scope, scale, and complexity of humanitarian crises have significantly grown, characterized by an increasing number of conflicts and natural disasters, exacerbated by climate change. As of August 2025, over 300 million people need humanitarian assistance globally, and 122 million people are forcibly displaced. Canada continues to respond to sudden onset and protracted humanitarian crises, including in Palestine, Ukraine, Sudan, and Haiti, and is actively addressing global food insecurity.

Humanitarian Assistance

Issue

The Government of Canada responds to humanitarian crises through a global, coordinated system of experienced humanitarian partners, providing urgent assistance where it is needed most.

Responsive lines

Canada responds to humanitarian needs by working through experienced humanitarian partners, including the UN, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and Canadian and international NGOs, which provide immediate life-saving assistance.
As a committed humanitarian donor, Canada continues to respond to sudden onset and protracted humanitarian crises, including in Palestine, Ukraine, Sudan, and Haiti, and is actively addressing global needs through support to sectors such as food assistance.
Canada is committed to upholding and promoting respect for International Humanitarian Law, including the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers.
Canada is actively engaged at the global level to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the international humanitarian system and is supportive of reform efforts to reaffirm the system’s core purpose: to prioritize life-saving assistance and protect those most at risk during acute emergencies.
Humanitarian assistance aligns with Canadian values, supports global stability, reduces forced displacement, and enhances Canada's international influence.

Releasable background

In FY 2024-2025, GAC provided $796^{Footnote 3} million in humanitarian assistance funding and ranked as the thirteenth largest donor overall in 2024.

The Government has a robust toolkit with which to respond to humanitarian crises. Responses consist primarily of financial contributions to experienced partners to support their programming interventions. This includes support for the provision of emergency food and nutrition assistance, emergency health services, water, sanitation and hygiene, shelter and non-food items, among other forms of support to vulnerable and crisis-affected populations. In FY 2024-25, Canada’s top funded humanitarian partners included:

World Food Programme – $202 million
International Committee of the Red Cross – $94 million
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs – $87 million
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees – $84 million

In response to rapid-onset emergencies, such as earthquakes or floods, the Government of Canada can also provide in-kind support, such as relief supplies and medical assets from its stockpiles, deploy civilian experts, and use matching funds as a public engagement tool. Following large-scale natural disasters, it can also include the use of Canadian armed forces’ unique capabilities as a last resort when the ability to respond exceeds civilian capacity.

As a result of major global funding cuts, the humanitarian system is undergoing significant reforms – under the umbrella of a ‘Humanitarian Reset’- to reaffirm the system’s core purpose: to protect and assist those most at risk during acute emergencies and prioritize life-saving assistance.

Democratic governance and resilience

Issue

Helping democracies stay strong and resilient is an urgent global challenge, as rising authoritarianism, anti-rights movements, and the misuse of technology continue to undermine democratic systems.

Responsive lines

Poor governance erodes public trust, reduces accountability, and hinders effective service delivery, justice, and the protection of human rights.
Canada's investments in democratic governance and human rights safeguard an enabling environment for economic prosperity and security.
Canada is committed to working with partners to uphold human rights, support fair and credible elections, and strengthen predictable rules-based systems that support trade and sustainable development.

Releasable background

Canada’s international assistance includes support to build and strengthen democratic public sector institutions and processes; support civil society organizations engaged in protecting civic space, media freedom and human rights; and address threats to democratic governance systems.

Supporting facts and figures

In FY 2023-2024, Global Affairs Canada disbursed $376 million in Inclusive Governance programming. This represented 7% of GAC’s international assistance.
International indices track a concerning decline in in the political rights and liberties that comprise democratic governance. The Global State of Democracy 2025 report notes that 94 countries (54 percent of all countries assessed) suffered a decline in at least one factor of democratic performance, compared to their own performance five years ago, while only 55 countries (32 percent) advanced.
More broadly, Freedom House (prominent American NGO focused on democratic governance) tracks a 19-year global decline in freedom and democracy.

Background

Democratic governance is anchored in four pillars: upholding human rights, adhering to the rule of law, accountability to citizens, and genuine representation.
Global anti-gender and anti-rights movements fuel instability and directly challenge democratic systems. 2SLGBTQI+ communities are often on the frontlines against these movements, facing increased discrimination and violence.
An impression that democracy has failed to deliver – particularly around security challenges and economic growth – combined with foreign interference and backlash on human rights, are deepening societal polarization, eroding trust in democratic processes, undermining human rights, and destabilizing the rules-based international system that keeps us safe and secure.

Economic growth

Issue

Canada’s international assistance plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth in partner countries by empowering women, youth, and marginalized communities to participate fully in economic and social progress.

Responsive lines

Canada’s international assistance supports inclusive job creation and entrepreneurship, trade capacity building, and private sector partnerships, while ensuring growth is climate-smart, sustainable and resilient.
Canada is working with partner countries to strengthen institutional capacity, regulatory transparency, and fiscal governance as key pillars of an enabling environment that supports inclusive development and unlocks new pathways for diversified trade.
We continue to work with multilateral institutions focussed on economic development and are determined to foster new partnerships with developing nations, as well as private sector actors, to generate mutual economic prosperity.
Canada is advancing infrastructure and critical mineral partnerships that reinforce resilient supply chains and support inclusive, sustainable growth both at home and through our international engagements.
These efforts can benefit Canadians by creating opportunities for two-way trade and investment in new and emerging markets, establishing more resilient supply chains and increasing economic security.

Releasable background

Inclusive economic growth

As Minister Anand emphasized at the United Nations General Assembly, Canada’s international development approach is rooted in inclusion - empowering women, youth, and marginalized communities to participate fully in economic and social progress. Gender equality is recognized not only as a fundamental objective, but as a driver of resilience and peace. Priorities include climate-smart infrastructure, sustainable supply chains, and targeted investments that reduce poverty and foster long-term stability, in turn laying the foundation for inclusive, sustainable growth. Canada continues to implement its $100 million commitment made at the Generation Equality Forum to address the unequal distribution of paid and unpaid care work in low- and middle-income countries. This includes support for care economies, improvements in the quality of care, and efforts to reduce women’s time poverty — recognizing the disproportionate time women spend on caregiving.

Aligning foreign policy, trade and development tools

Canada’s international development supports inclusive growth and builds economic infrastructure and workforce capacity that enable long-term trade partnerships. It advances gender-responsive trade strategies and ensures that women and marginalized groups benefit from supply chain resilience and diversification. The assistance also provides developing partners with dedicated technical assistance to support the implementation of Free Trade Agreements, such as the recently concluded agreement with Indonesia. This approach reinforces Canada’s commitment to values-driven global engagement, where development programming contributes directly to economic resilience, trade diversification, and inclusive prosperity.

Partnerships

Through partnerships with multilateral, bilateral, and civil society organizations, Canada supports inclusive growth initiatives that help to strengthen supply chains and local markets, while promoting financial inclusion, clean water infrastructure, safe housing, agriculture, and other essential services and public goods that underpin sustainable development.

Infrastructure, critical minerals and resilient supply chains

Canada is advancing strategic partnerships in infrastructure and critical minerals to reinforce resilient supply chains and support inclusive, sustainable growth both domestically and through international engagement. While the path to mutual benefit remains complex, Canada is committed to promoting responsible resource management that contributes to poverty reduction, job creation, and inclusive economic development, particularly in regions with untapped trade potential.

Institutional capacity, regulatory transparency

Canada remains focused on strengthening the institutional capacity, regulatory transparency, and fiscal governance in partner countries, as a way to promoting inclusive economic growth and diversified trade. This means greater focus on building enabling environments for trade and development, supporting partner countries through governance reform, and advancing inclusive and sustainable economic frameworks.

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Converging foreign policy, trade and international development tools

In a shifting global development landscape, Canada is refining its broader approach to economic growth by looking to advance economic cooperation, entrepreneurship, skills and job creation, climate resilience, and innovative finance. This requires increasing policy coherence across its development, trade, and foreign policy priorities, including to help support resource-rich developing countries while addressing its own growing demand for critical minerals. In doing that, international development can be leveraged as a means to strengthen global economic systems. This will mark a shift toward integrated policymaking, where international development is regarded as both humanitarian as well as a strategic lever to strengthen global economic systems.

Infrastructure, critical minerals and resilient supply chains

Recent G7 discussions led by Prime Minister Carney focus on critical minerals, supply chain security, infrastructure, economic corridors, and governance. Through the G7 Critical Minerals Action Plan, Canada supports transparent, sustainable, and locally beneficial supply chains, emphasizing standards-based markets, Indigenous engagement, and gender-responsive governance. Canada also backs the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), which focuses on economic corridors such as the Lobito Corridor (Angola, DRC, Zambia), a key trade route for copper and cobalt, leveraging blended finance and public-private partnerships. Canada is also a strong supporter of the G7 Resilient and Inclusive Supply Chain Enhancement (RISE) Partnership, focused on diversifying and securing global critical minerals supply chains while promoting investment and sustainable economic growth.

Innovative finance

Innovative finance is about using new tools with new partners, particularly private sector, to increase the impact of every development dollar.

Responsive lines

Since 2011, Canada’s international assistance toolkit has included innovative finance mechanisms, such as loans, to help mobilize new sources of funding for international development. Innovative finance complements and does not replace Canada’s other development finance tools, such as traditional grants and contributions.
Canada’s innovative finance is essentially delivered through our climate and innovative finance programs at Global Affairs Canada, and through our Development Finance Institution, FinDev Canada.
Fin Dev Canada is an important actor in development finance and a key player in Canada’s approach to support growth in emerging markets and developing economies, allowing us to use all the tools at our disposal.
Since 2018, FinDev Canada has committed over US $1.3 billion to finance sustainable development, helping to support more than 223,000 jobs, and helped advance gender equality, climate resilience, and inclusive growth in countries across their portfolio of investments.
The new concessional funding at FinDev Canada, $700M from Budget 2024, will also support even greater focus on high-potential investments in emerging markets and developing economies and help lower the risk to bring in greater investments from the private sector.
At this year’s G7 Leaders' Summit Prime Minister Carney announced $391.3 million for innovative finance, to catalyze private capital toward economic growth and development projects around the world.
This funding will help address major barriers to private sector investments and enable private sector financing in developing countries to reduce poverty and achieve shared prosperity.
Canada’s commitment to innovative finance, and the funding announced by the Prime Minister, both further reinforce our role as a strategic partner in mobilizing private capital for global development.

Releasable background

Meeting global development goals requires investment far beyond public budgets. With the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) funding gap nearing $4 trillion and official development assistance declining ($212 billion in 2024), mobilizing private capital is essential.

At the G7 Leaders’ Summit, Canada announced $391.3 million to catalyze private capital for inclusive economic growth. This includes $290 million over five years for the International Assistance Innovation Program (IAIP) to mobilize private investment toward the SDGs, and $101.3 million to tackle key barriers to investment in developing countries, which includes approximately $50 million for Scaling Capital for Sustainable Development (SCALED).

The IAIP is an innovative finance program at Global Affairs Canada, started in 2018, which uses concessional loans to help to lower risk for private sector investment in developing countries. In its Pilot Phase (between 2020-2024), the IAIP deployed $810.8 million through investments that included 16 new repayable projects. These projects are expected to abate 27 million tons of greenhouse gases, reach 4.8 million people, and mobilize additional private sector resources.

With the $290 million over five years announced at the G7 Leaders' Summit, the new phase of the IAIP aims to:

Mobilize additional capital for sustainable economic growth and impact, by engaging with institutional investors.
Deepen the impact and reach of Canada’s blended finance and support investments that build local markets, including reaching those that are financially underserved, such as women entrepreneurs and smallholder farmers.
Leverage Canada’s international assistance resources for greater development impact.

Canada is co-leading with Germany the establishment of the global platform, SCALED alongside other governments and private sector institutional investors to simplify and standardize the way we do blended finance. SCALED aims to overcome structural challenges and remove obstacles, such as complex donor requirements and a lack of standardization that have stood in the way of mobilizing large-scale investments for SDG-aligned investments in emerging markets and developing economies.

Created in 2018, FinDev Canada is Canada’s development finance institution. It operates with a mandate to deliver measurable development outcomes, particularly in climate action, gender equality and inclusive economic growth. Its investments focus on three key sectors: financial industry, sustainable infrastructure, and agribusiness, forestry and value chains. It supports international development through financing, investment and technical advice, with commitments totalling US $1.3B to more than 48 clients.

Food systems and nutrition

Issue

Global food security remains a critical development challenge. While global hunger decreased for the first time since 2019, 673 million people still faced hunger in 2024.

Responsive lines

Achieving global food security is important for Canada. We remain concerned that domestic food prices in many developing countries - the prices that matter to poor consumers - continue to increase and drive greater hunger and malnutrition.
Domestically, one of the biggest drivers of the high cost of living of Canadians are foods imported from poor and vulnerable farmers in the global south, such as coffee, cocoa, tropical fruits and nuts.
Responding to the evolving global food crisis is both an important domestic and international priority for Canada. Canada will continue to address the root causes of hunger and malnutrition by strengthening the resilience of agri-food systems to climate and economic shocks.
In 2024-25, Canada provided $600 million for long-term agri-food systems development and over $1 billion to malnutrition response.
The provision of emergency food and nutrition assistance is a key component of Canada’s international humanitarian assistance portfolio, with approximately $390 million provided through United Nations and Canadian civil society partners in 2025.

Releasable background

The major drivers of global hunger and malnutrition are conflict and insecurity, climate change, and economic shocks.
In 2024, it is estimated that 673 million people were undernourished, 2.3 billion people were moderately or severely food insecure, and 2.6 billion people were unable to afford a healthy diet. The world is not on track to meet any of the seven global nutrition targets.
Progress in reducing hunger is largely driven by improvements in South Asia and South America. Hunger continues to rise in most subregions of Africa and Western Asia.
Since 2020, global food price inflation has consistently outpaced headline inflation, underscoring persistent pressures in agriculture and food markets.
A 10% increase in food prices is associated with a 3.5% rise in food insecurity, and a 2.7% to 4.3% increase in child wasting.
Canada is committed to strengthening the resilience of agri-food systems with an emphasis on climate-smart agriculture, sustainable agri-food value chains, food system governance and safety-nets.
Canada is also consistently among the top five donors to global nutrition. Canada’s leadership in nutrition policy and partnerships, including with Ottawa-based Nutrition International, a global leader in the delivery of high-impact, low-cost nutrition interventions, is internationally recognized. Nutrition International will receive $360 million over six years to continue work to provide life-saving nutrition resources to people in need, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
Canada further addresses the immediate impacts of hunger through emergency food assistance and nutrition.
In 2025, at least 319 million people are estimated to face emergency levels of hunger, including 1.9 million on the brink and suffering from declared famine (Sudan and Gaza), with 70% of acutely food insecure people living in fragile or conflict-affected contexts.
Canada’s humanitarian assistance is allocated according to assessed needs stemming from UN agency appeals.
As of May 2025, Canada has allocated $389 million in emergency food and nutrition assistance to key partners such as the World Food Programme, the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, UNICEF Canada, Action Against Hunger Canada, and Save the Children Canada, among others.

Climate and innovative finance

Canada has taken a leadership role in climate and innovative finance to support economic development and poverty reduction.
Canada recently renewed its International Assistance Innovation Program (IAIP), which makes targeted, repayable investments – together with private and public partners – in high-impact projects in developing countries.
Canada’s development finance institution, FinDev Canada, also provides support to facilitate private sector investment in developing countries, with the objective of stimulating sustainable economic growth in support of Canada’s overall international development objectives.

Supplementary messages

Canada recognizes the fundamental role of the private sector in driving economic growth, facilitating clean energy transitions and catalyzing innovation in developing and emerging economies.
The new phase of the International Assistance Innovation Program (IAIP) was publicly announced during Canada’s G7 Presidency. It commits $290 million over five years to mobilize additional capital for sustainable economic growth and impact, deepen the impact and reach of Canada’s blended finance, and support investments that build local markets.
The repayable instruments at the core of Global Affairs Canada’s climate finance programming are proving to be cost-efficient. Rough estimations suggest that previous climate finance projects carried an average marginal abatement cost of $16 per megatonne of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) versus an average of $130 per megatonne across 30 Canadian industries.

Update

With the current commitment period (2021-2026) for Canada’s international climate finance program nearing its scheduled end, the Government of Canada is developing options for its next commitment. To inform this process, the government conducted extensive public and targeted consultations and engagements from April to June 2024.

The Government of Canada announced via Budget 2024 a new concessional finance facility at FinDev Canada, providing $720 million over five years in concessional capital, including $20 million for technical assistance.

Supporting facts and figures

Since 2021, Canada’s international climate finance has reduced or avoided over 280 megatonnes of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and helped 10.5 million people to become more resilient to the effects of climate change.
The Climate Finance program has exceeded its private sector mobilization target of $0.75 for every dollar Canada contributes. As of 2022, $1.19 had been mobilized for every dollar.

Climate and biodiversity finance

The Government of Canada has allocated $5.3 billion for its International Climate Finance Program (2021-2026) and $350 million for its International Biodiversity Program (2023-2026). Both will sunset on March 31, 2026. The government is exploring options for future funding.

Responsive lines

Climate change and biodiversity loss do not respect borders. They are drivers of food insecurity and consumer price increases, political instability and conflict, supply chain disruptions and pandemics – issues that affect Canadians in their everyday lives and people around the world.
The frequency and intensity of wildfires around the world are increasing because of climate change. Canada is leading G7 efforts to boost global wildfire prevention and preparedness – backed by climate and biodiversity finance. We are building resilience and protecting communities in Canada and worldwide.
Between 2015 and 2050, Canada’s climate finance expects to reduce or avoid over 514 megatonnes of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (equivalent to the annual energy use from more than 120 million homes), which benefits everyone.
Our climate and biodiversity programming empowers people, including women, to build climate-resilient livelihoods and drive sustainable economic growth around the world.
Canada uses concessional loans to increase private sector investment in climate solutions in developing countries to support economic development and poverty reduction. As of 2023 (the latest year for which data is available), $1.17 had been mobilized for every dollar of Canadian funding provided.
The repayable instruments at the core of our climate finance programming are cost-effective. In a selective sample of 14 clean energy projects with funding from Canada, advanced enough in their implementation to have expected results, the estimated cost to reduce one tonne of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions was $16. Costs can be higher in Canada. According to one study, the average cost was $130 based on a sample of 30 Canadian industries.
Climate finance also delivers returns for Canada. Since 2011, $862.3 million has already been repaid to the Consolidated Revenue Fund, with another $2.34 billion expected over the life of projects funded through Unconditionally Repayable Contributions (URCs).
Canada’s International Biodiversity Program funds global conservation efforts with benefits for Canadians – for example, by deploying Canadian private sector satellite technology to help countries fight illegal fishing.

Releasable background

Canada’s international climate finance is jointly led by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), which manages more than 95% of the funding, and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), which provides policy direction. This funding fulfills Canada’s obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. With Canada warming at twice the global rate, this funding also serves Canada’s national interests by addressing global climate risks that increasingly affect Canadians – such as wildfires and rising food costs.

Canada’s concessional financing is helping to mobilize private capital, accelerate innovation and support emerging markets – all while advancing national and global climate goals. Examples:

Concessional loans from the Canadian Climate Funds for the Private Sector in Asia with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are supporting landmark clean energy projects such as Asia’s first cross-border wind power facility and Southeast Asia’s first large-scale floating solar installation. Projects supported by Canada have generated over 19 billion kilowatt hours of power – enough to supply electricity to an estimated 2.5 million households across major developing countries in the Indo-Pacific for one year.
EnGender (Enabling Gender-Responsive Disaster Recovery, Climate and Environmental Resilience in the Caribbean) has supported seven Caribbean countries to strengthen their national climate plans and help them access larger climate finance funds. More than 80 senior representatives received training on post-disaster needs assessment (PDNA) through this United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) project. The technical capacity of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency has increased, including a Roster of Experts to support the early recovery phase of disasters through regional deployments.

Canada’s 2023–2026 International Biodiversity Program is managed by Global Affairs Canada and helps to meet Canada’s commitments under the historic Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework. The ambitious framework commits the global community to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030, including by conserving 30% of lands and oceans by 2030 and ensuring that at least 30% of the world’s degraded ecosystems are under restoration by 2030.

One example of a project funded by the International Biodiversity Program:

Canada is investing $5 million (2024–2026) to expand Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection program, launched in 2021 and initially active in Ecuador, to include Colombia, Costa Rica, and Panama. This initiative provides Canadian satellite technology developed by MDA, a Canadian-owned global leader in space technology. Partner countries are better equipped to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in the Eastern Tropical Pacific. By enhancing maritime domain awareness and enforcement capacity, the project strengthens regional security, protects biodiversity, and supports sustainable fisheries. It promotes Canadian expertise while advancing Canada’s commitments under the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Global health top line messages

Canada is a longstanding supporter of global health efforts.
International collaboration on global health keeps Canadians and people around the world safe from infectious disease threats and advances the health and rights of women and girls.
Canada is working to make global health assistance more efficient, sustainable and aligned with developing country priorities.

Supplementary messages

Canada supports global health programs through a range of partners, including Canadian civil society, multilateral initiatives and UN agencies.
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored that global health threats are domestic health and economic threats, and that strong health systems are necessary to stop outbreaks before they grow into pandemics.
Enabling greater country ownership, including mobilizing increased domestic financing for health, will be core to any reforms to the global health ecosystem.

Supporting facts and figures

Maternal and under-5 mortality rates have significantly decreased in the past three decades, polio cases have declined by 99% and AIDS-related deaths have fallen by 70%, all achieved, in part, by Official Development Assistance (ODA) for health, which has improved access to affordable, quality health services.
The Government of Canada is the 6th largest donor to global health and nutrition, allocating an average of 19% (2019 to 2023) of its ODA to health-related programs. Canada’s longstanding leadership includes a strong focus on fighting infectious diseases and advancing the health and rights of women and girls, including their sexual and reproductive health and rights, and improving nutrition.
63% of Canada’s global health investments were directed to sub-Saharan Africa in FY2023/24. Top bilateral recipients were Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Tanzania.

Background

For over 20 years, Canada has made substantial investments toward improving health outcomes in developing countries, particularly through reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health and nutrition programs. As countries and the global health ecosystem adapt to declining levels of ODA for health, Canada is well-positioned to engage constructively on the way forward and ensure that Canadian support for global health continues to deliver maximum impact.

Global Health

Over the past two decades, Canada has demonstrated sustained leadership in global health, contributing significantly to reductions in maternal and child mortality and to the strengthening of health systems across partner countries.
International collaboration on global health keeps Canadians and people around the world safe from infectious disease threats and advances the health and rights of women and girls.
Canada is working with our partners to make global health assistance more efficient, sustainable and aligned with developing country priorities.

Responsive lines

Responsive: Why is Canada spending money on global health instead of focusing only at home?

Investing in global health protects Canadians. Stronger systems abroad stop diseases at their source and keep our families safe here at home.
Healthy, stable societies abroad mean a safer, more secure world. Supporting global health protects Canadians and advances our prosperity.

Responsive: What impact is Canada having with our global health investments?

Canada’s investments in global health are making a difference.
We are investing in vaccines, women and children's health, and frontline care. These efforts save lives today and build resilience against future outbreaks. For example, with support from Canada and other donors:
- The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria reduced the combined death rate from AIDS, TB, and Malaria by 63% and saved 65 million lives between 2002 and 2023.
- Since 2000, Gavi has helped vaccinate more than 1 billion children in 78 countries, saving an estimated 18.8 million lives and generating more than US$250 billion in economic benefits from the lives saved.
- The Canadian organization Nutrition International delivered high-impact, low-cost nutrition interventions in 60 countries—saving the lives of 150,000 children under 5, preventing 511,000 cases of stunting and 12.8 million cases of anemia in 2023-24 alone.
- The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) helped 25 million women access essential reproductive health services, avert nearly 10 million unintended pregnancies, and prevent 3 million unsafe abortions—including in humanitarian and conflict settings like Gaza.

Responsive: Why does Canada continue to invest in the World Health Organization?

WHO plays a crucial and unique leadership role on health issues that require global collaboration, including detecting and responding to disease outbreaks around the world.
Canada’s membership in WHO helps to protect Canadians and people around the world.
Canada will continue to work with all Member States to ensure that the WHO is an effective, accountable, inclusive and well-governed institution and that it remains a trusted voice of authority on health matters, including in setting standards.

Responsive: How might spending on global health be impacted by the Government`s Comprehensive Expenditure Review?

Canada and other donors are facing difficult decisions within a shifting global economic and security landscape.
A Comprehensive Expenditure Review was launched to ensure that spending remains responsible, cost-effective, and focused on results.
Also undergoing a foreign policy review as part of a broader National Security Strategy.
International assistance programming may be impacted, but no firm decisions have been made.
Canada remains committed to advancing global health, including the health and rights of women and girls.
Enabling greater country ownership, including mobilizing increased domestic financing for health, will be core to any reforms to the global health ecosystem.

Releasable background

Over the past three decades there has been significant progress in global health. This includes important reductions in under-5 and maternal mortality; a 99% reduction in polio cases; as well as a 70% reduction in AIDS-related deaths. However, significant challenges remain. Close to 300,000 women still die annually in childbirth, 14.5 million children are unvaccinated against childhood illnesses, 260 million women in developing countries have an unmet need for contraception, and the world remains vulnerable to the increasing threat of pandemics.

For over 20 years, Canada has demonstrated leadership and made substantial investments toward improving health outcomes in developing countries, particularly through reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health and nutrition programs. As countries and the global health ecosystem adapt to declining levels of ODA for health, Canada is well-positioned to engage constructively on the way forward and ensure that Canadian support for global health continues to deliver maximum impact.

The Government of Canada is the 6th largest donor to global health and nutrition, allocating an average of 19% (2019 to 2023) of its ODA to health-related programs. In 2010, the Government of Canada leveraged its G8 Presidency to champion reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health and nutrition (RMNCAH+N) through the Muskoka Initiative. The 10-Year Commitment to Global Health and Rights (10YC) builds off the Muskoka Initiative for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (2010 – 2020), and includes a rights-based focus on RMNCAH+N, as well as support for the most underfunded areas of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (family planning, advocacy, comprehensive sexuality education, access to safe abortion and post-abortion care, prevention and response to sexual and of gender-based violence).

Recent cuts to international development assistance have renewed interest in strengthening the global health ecosystem, building off initiatives like the Lusaka Agenda—a process in which the Government of Canada played a leading role. Canada is engaged in several initiatives and discussions to support reform efforts.

Education including skills development/Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET)

Issue

Education investments are essential to building resilient and thriving communities and are a catalyst for global social and economic development.

Responsive lines

Canada is widely recognized as a global leader in education. 2
Investing in education fosters long-term stability, economic growth and global security – directly benefiting Canada’s economy and safety.
Over the past three years, Canada has invested $1.2 billion in global education, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training, to equip children and youth with the skills needed for employment, foster entrepreneurship, and build investment-ready economies.
For example, I recently announced a $5 million project in Uganda and Tanzania with FINCA Canada to equip 41,000 young people with skills, financial services, and entrepreneurship opportunities, helping them build sustainable livelihoods and drive local economic growth.

Releasable background

Millions of children/youth remain out of school, and many in school cannot read by age 10. Three-quarters of youth lack the skills needed for employment. These learning and skills gaps limit access to jobs and impact economic development and peace and security.

Education is viewed as a non-controversial, effective investment fostering long-term stability, economic growth and global security - directly benefiting Canada’s economy and Canadia’s safety:

An extra year of schooling can raise earnings by 10%, and every $1 invested in girls’ education yields a $2.80 return - boosting GDP by billions.
Each year of education reduces the risk of conflict by ~20%.

Over the past three years (FY 2022–2025), Canada invested over $1.2 billion in education - about 7% of Official Development Assistance. Top countries in FY 2024–25 include: Mozambique, Jordan, Mali, Tanzania, and Bangladesh.

To date, Canada’s international assistance has focused on basic education, with a growing emphasis on skills development/Technical Vocational Education and Training. This balanced approach supports foundational skills (literacy/numeracy and social emotional competencies), alongside job-readiness skills (digital literacy), both essential for employment. Innovative financing tools - portfolio guarantees, results-based financing, and multiplier funds – have been used to unlock new capital and accelerate education initiatives.

Canadian academic and civil society partners, including Colleges and Institutes Canada and World University Services of Canada, are recognized globally for delivering demand-driven, labour-market-aligned Technical Vocational Education and Training. Multilateral partners, such as, the Global Partnership for Education, Education Cannot Wait, International Financing Facility for Education and Generation Unlimited are also advancing innovative, cost-effective, measurable education outcomes.

Canada’s support to education is a neutral lever advancing Canadian interests. Its leadership is recognized for driving impact by eliminating barriers preventing girls access to education, boosting literacy/numeracy, and expanding skills development to support employment.

2SLGBTQI+ human rights abroad

Issue

Human rights, including gender equality and 2SLGBTQI+ rights, are under threat globally with the rise of authoritarian regimes, shrinking civic spaces and anti-gender and anti-rights movements.

Responsive lines

Canada is a global leader promoting and protecting the human rights and inclusion of 2SLGBTQI+ persons around the world through our diplomacy and international assistance.
Human rights, including gender equality and 2SLGBTQI+ rights, are under threat globally with the rise of authoritarian regimes, shrinking civic spaces and anti-gender and anti-rights movements.
Our security and prosperity at home are tied to broader global stability. When we strengthen human rights protections in one part of the world, we increase the safety and security of people everywhere.
Emboldened anti-rights and anti-gender actors motivate anti-gender and anti-rights actors here at home.
Canada’s LGBTQ2I International Assistance Program ($30 million, 2020-25) makes an important contribution to advancing human rights and socio-economic outcomes for these communities in the Global South.

Releasable background

2SLGBTQI+ stands for Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and additional sexually and gender diverse people and is used domestically within Canada. It includes two-spirit (2S) populations of North America. LGBTI and LGBTQI+ are internationally recognized acronyms broadly used in the multilateral system and in international contexts.
Canada met its LGBTQ2I International Assistance Program’s commitment to deliver $30 million in programming.
LGBTQI+ human rights are also being supported through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives, the Equality Fund, the renewal of the Women’s Voice and Leadership program, and some of the projects under Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy.
Canada continues to a visible leader and partner with other members of the United Nations to defend the rights of LGBTQI+ people abroad, including in key multilateral fora such as the UN Human Rights Council and the UN General Assembly Third Committee.
The 2021-22 Global Resources Report ranks Canada as the 3^rd largest government donor of LGBTQI+ international assistance (US $23.1 million in 2021-22) - an update will be published in 2026.
The Equality Fund invests in women, girls and trans people for communities to thrive. In five years, it has moved over $15 million into feminist movements protecting LGBTQI+ rights amidst increasing global backlash and human rights violations.
In April 2023, Canada announced $195 million over five years and $43.3 million annually thereafter, to renew and expand of the Women’s Voice and Leadership program, including enhanced support for women’s rights organizations, LBTQI+ groups and women human rights defenders working in crisis and conflict-affected settings.
Canada advocates globally to eliminate laws and policies discriminating against persons based on their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics, and to combat all acts of violence targeted at LGBTQI+ persons.
Canada is a member of the Equal Rights Coalition, a partnership of 43 countries, civil society organizations and multilateral agencies for the full and equal enjoyment of rights by LGBTQI+ persons worldwide.

Canada’s international assistance in the Middle East

Canada’s bilateral International Assistance to Ukraine in 2024-2025 totaled $3.1 billion, including $13M in humanitarian assistance, $130M in development assistance, $54M in conflict, peace and security assistance, and $2.9B in financial assistance provided through the Department of Finance.
Canada’s International Assistance to the Middle East** in 2024-2025 totalled $509M, including $298M in humanitarian assistance, $156M in development assistance and $55M in peace and security assistance.
In 2024-2025 financial year, top recipients in the Middle East were the Palestinian territories ($149M), Syria ($102M), Lebanon ($87M), Jordan ($61M), and Yemen ($59M).

Supplementary messages

Ukraine

Prime Minister Carney’s leadership in the G7 and visit to Kyiv on August 24th demonstrate Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s immediate and long-term resilience, recovery and eventual reconstruction needs.
Canada is also leading efforts to address the war’s human dimension and is continuing to increase economic pressure on Russia to degrade its capacity to wage war.

Middle East

As a top donor responding to the crisis in Gaza and the West Bank, Canada has committed over $400M in international assistance since October 7, 2023.
We continue to call on Israel to facilitate the safe, rapid and unimpeded passage of aid into and throughout Gaza via the UN-led system.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada is among the largest contributors to humanitarian response efforts in Ukraine: $395.65 million since January 2022 ($13 million in 2024/25).
The development program ($130 million in 2024/25) advances inclusive governance, economic resilience, human dignity and gender equality, in line with Ukraine’s aim of EU accession. Canada (Finance) also provided $2.9 billion in financial assistance in 2024/25.
Ukraine remains a country of focus for Canada’s conflict, peace and security support, receiving $54 million in 2024/25 for Ukraine’s resilience and resistance.
Canada is one of the largest contributors to humanitarian response efforts in the Middle East ($298 million in 2024/25). Efforts focus on addressing urgent life-saving needs, such as food, water and emergency healthcare.
Development programs ($156 million in 2024/25) focus on education, health, economic growth, climate change and women’s equality. This assistance addresses causes of instability by reducing poverty, increasing socio-economic opportunities, supporting governance and human rights, and mitigating climate risks.
Peace and Security programming ($55 million in 2024/25) contributes to security sector reform, including building the capacity of national military, intelligence and law enforcement counterparts to counter crime and terrorism and address threats posed by the proliferation and use of weapons of mass destruction while supporting mine action, political transitions and enabling peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery efforts.

United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA)

Issue

Canada continues to support UNRWA’s essential role in delivering services to Palestinians and promoting regional stability.

Responsive lines

UNRWA is the only UN Agency specifically mandated to provide essential services to Palestinians in Palestine, as well as in Syria, Lebanon and Jordan. It continues to be a critical component of the humanitarian response in Gaza.
UNRWA’s work promotes a crucial source of stability in the region which is necessary to achieve a political solution, allowing Palestinians, Israelis and citizens from neighbouring countries to live in peace.
We will continue to support and work with UNRWA until a political horizon is reached in which the Agency can transfer responsibility for its services to national authorities.
We recognize UNRWA’s progress on implementing neutrality reforms, and we are urging the Agency to continue to implement the Colonna recommendations as a priority.
We consider the attempts to dismantle UNRWA unilaterally as a threat to the integrity of the multilateral system, and rules-based international order more broadly. UN agencies must be protected and be able to deliver their critical work.

Releasable background

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is mandated by the UN General Assembly to provide essential services to Palestinians and is a critical element of the broader humanitarian response in Gaza, both as a direct implementer and as a critical service provider for humanitarian actors. In October 2024, the Knesset passed legislation that bans UNRWA’s operations in East Jerusalem and impedes UNRWA’s activities in West Bank and Gaza. Canada has condemned this legislation and has been demonstrating strong public support for UNRWA in bilateral and multilateral meetings and statements.

Support to UNRWA: Canada provides multi-year institutional support to UNRWA ($100M 2023-2026), the only UN Agency mandated to provide quasi-public essential services for Palestinians in Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Canada has also allocated an additional $53M to UNRWA, since October 7, 2023, for their emergency appeals for Gaza and the West Bank, and to support the implementation of Colonna Report recommendations on enhancing the Agency’s neutrality.

Anti-UNRWA legislation: Canada condemned the Israeli legislation against UNRWA, which seeks to prevent and significantly curtail the Agency’s essential work in Gaza, East Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Canada played a lead role in convening donors around advocacy, at first opposing its adoption, and then pushing back against implementation. In October 2024 Canada led a Foreign Ministers' statement against the Israeli legislation on UNRWA with Australia, France, Germany, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the United Kingdom. Since the implementation of the Knesset legislation, UNRWA has continued to deliver services to Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. UNRWA has demonstrated its commitment to maintain a presence and to deliver.

International assistance in the Middle East

Issue

The region is home to protracted crises that devastate infrastructure and severely hinder economic and human development. Canada is committed to responding to the evolving needs of the region.

Responsive lines

Canada’s international assistance in the Middle East strengthens regional stability and resilience — helping reduce global risks that, when managed effectively, translate into greater security, safety, and economic stability for Canadians at home.
Canada’s Middle East Strategy (2016-2025) invested $4.75 billion to respond to crises in the region between 2016 and 2025, of which $2.96 billion was disbursed by Global Affairs Canada.
Our assistance programming in the region aims to save lives, relieve suffering, reduce poverty and promote peace and stability. It solidifies our standing as a trusted and dependable partner.
In 2024-2025, GAC’s bilateral international assistance to the Middle East totaled $509M**. This includes $298M in humanitarian assistance, $156M in development assistance and $55M in peace and security assistance.
Canada works with its implementing partners and local experts to address pressing issues, empowering individuals and communities through a gender, environmental, and conflict-sensitive lens.

** Preliminary figures for FY24/25: Excludes Egypt (counted under Africa) and core funding amounts to multilateral organisations, and includes only amounts from GAC. / Chiffres préliminaires pour l'année fiscale 2024/2025: excluent l'Égypte (comptabilisée sous Afrique) et le financement de base versés aux organisations multilatérales, et inclut uniquement les montants provenant d’AMC.

Releasable background

Between 2016 and 2025, Canada’s Middle East Strategy invested $4.75B to promote stability and prosperity through international assistance and diplomatic engagement, at a time when the biggest threat in the region was the rise of ISIS/Daesh. The Strategy concluded in March 2025, however Canada remains committed to responding to the growing and evolving needs of the region.
Canada is one of the largest contributors to humanitarian response efforts in the Middle East ($298M in 2024/25). Efforts focus on addressing urgent life-saving needs, such as food, water and emergency healthcare.
Development programs ($156M in 2024/25) focus on education, health, economic growth, climate change and women’s equality. This assistance addresses causes of instability by reducing poverty, increasing socio-economic opportunities, supporting governance and human rights, and mitigating climate risks.
Peace and Security programming ($55M in 2024/25) contributes to security sector reform, including building the capacity of national military, intelligence and law enforcement counterparts to counter crime and terrorism and address threats posed by the proliferation and use of weapons of mass destruction while supporting mine action, political transitions and enabling peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery efforts.
International assistance programming is tailored to the needs of each recipient. Therefore, we have active humanitarian, development and peace and security programming in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Palestine, while Syria receives humanitarian and peace and security support, Egypt receives development and regional security support, and Yemen only receives humanitarian assistance.

Gaza humanitarian situation

Canada welcomes the announcement of a U.S.-brokered peace deal between Israel and Hamas. Canada will continue to coordinate closely with international partners and will support all efforts to turn this positive step into lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians.
Canada is deeply alarmed by the horrific humanitarian conditions in Gaza, and the confirmation that famine is occurring. The ceasefire provides a critical opportunity to scale up humanitarian assistance and Canada continues to urge Israel to facilitate the immediate, unimpeded and sustained increase of UN-led aid into and throughout Gaza.
Canada continues to support the efforts of the UN, Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and NGOs that are responding in extremely challenging circumstances.

Supplementary messages

Canada will continue to support our experienced humanitarian partners to deliver assistance through the existing and experienced UN-led humanitarian system in Gaza which was able to rapidly scale up aid distribution during the last ceasefire.
Since the beginning of the crisis, Canada has been clear that parties to the conflict must adhere to their obligations under International Humanitarian Law.
Canada is exploring modalities to support a scale up of humanitarian assistance, support stabilization efforts, and help Palestinians recover after two years of devastating conflict.
Responsive - Airdrops: Airdrops are a temporary measure used as a last resort, allowing for the provision of urgent life-saving relief. While Canada supported three humanitarian airdrops to respond to urgent needs, this action has not altered our consistent call for Israel to fulfill its obligations under international humanitarian law to ensure rapid and unimpeded access.
Responsive – Aid Diversion:
- The UN states it has found no evidence of systematic diversion of aid by Hamas.
- The UN has consistently emphasized that looting stems from the economics of scarcity – when people are denied basic necessities for long periods, they will take what they can out of desperation.
- During the previous ceasefire period, the UN reported that incidents of looting and criminal interference dropped significantly due to the influx of aid. Early UN reports indicate that looting has reduced since the current ceasefire was announced and more aid has been entering Gaza.

Supporting facts and figures

Since 7 October 2023, Canada has committed more than $400 million in international assistance in response to the crisis in the West Bank and Gaza. This includes:

Over $270 million in humanitarian assistance focusing on addressing urgent, lifesaving needs, such as the provision of food, nutrition, water, emergency healthcare, shelter and protection services;
$24.75 million in peace and security programming to support mine action and related activities in West Bank, Gaza, Lebanon and Syria;
$20 million to support early recovery efforts through restoring essential health services when conditions allow; and
$87.5 million in development assistance to support the Palestinian Authority, including social recovery and job creation, democratic governance, accountability, and access to justice, and to support the economic resilience of women and youth in the West Bank.

Canada’s international assistance in Africa

Canada’s development assistance has contributed to building African economies, increasing resilience to climate change, supporting health and education, and responding to humanitarian needs.
Canada’s international assistance programming provides us with an important tool to promote our values of compassion and human rights, and to advance our political, economic and security interests on the continent.
We are in a new phase of partnerships with African countries, pivoting from a development dominated relationship to one of shared prosperity and security.

Supplementary messages

Canada is competing for influence on the African continent. Global Affairs Canada is positioning itself to deploy its trade, development and diplomatic assets for greater influence and coherence.
Canada’s Africa Strategy: A Partnership for Shared Prosperity and Security refocuses and strengthens Canada’s engagement with Africa towards greater economic cooperation.
Canada’s new Trade and Development Program will support efforts to promote regional economic integration, reinforce rules-based systems, and unlock market opportunities for both African and Canadian businesses.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada has 22 International Development Assistance Programs in Africa.
Canada provided $3.2 billion in 2023-2024 (44.7% of Canada’s overall development assistance).
If fully implemented, the African Union’s African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will be the world’s largest free trade area, representing a market of 1.3 billion people.
Africa has significant natural resource, including 30% of the world’s critical minerals, 60% of its solar energy potential, and 25% of its biodiversity.

Background

Poverty reduction efforts remain critical as: 60% of the population live in poverty, more than 85% experience severe or moderate food insecurity, over 600 million people lack access to energy, and more than 25% of youth face unemployment.

U.S. Administration executive orders suspending aid (note: USAID invested U.S. $15.2 billion in Africa in 2023) are having a very significant impact on Africa, particularly in the health sector.

Some G7 donors are shifting some development assistance in Africa to economic security and trade, including to secure access to critical mineral resources.

Africa has vast economic and human potential. It is a dynamic, geo-strategically important continent with a rapidly growing workforce and young population. The AfCFTA will enable an integrated, rules-based trading environment that will benefit Canadian companies, including as a result of enhanced transparency and predictability of the business environment.

Canada’s approach to Africa

Issue

Canada is deepening relationships with African countries and institutions that advance Canada’s economic and security interests.

Responsive lines

In March 2025, the Government of Canada launched Canada’s Africa Strategy: A Partnership for Shared Prosperity and Security. The strategy focuses on greater economic cooperation, stronger peace and security partnerships, and mutually beneficial relationships.
Global Affairs Canada is strengthening economic diplomacy with Africa, including through an Africa Trade Hub, a Trade and Development program, and through the work of Canada’s new Special Envoy for Africa.
African Canadian communities and organizations bring Canada closer to Africa through their entrepreneurship, their networks, and their know-how. Global Affairs Canada engages regularly with diaspora groups and is currently developing a Diaspora Engagement Mechanism.

Releasable background

Africa represents about 1% of Canada’s global trade ($15.2 billion), up 29.5% since 2020. Canada’s top trading partners include South Africa, Nigeria, Morocco, Algeria, and Mauritania.

Africa was Canada’s largest recipient of international assistance in 2023-2024 ($3.2 billion). Canadian international assistance for Africa has increased by 52% over the past eight years.

Over the past 5 years, Canada has invested $4.5 billion in bilateral international assistance programming in Africa to build economies, support health and education, and respond to humanitarian needs.

In July 2025, Canada’s Secretary of State for International Development, Randeep Sarai, traveled to Ghana, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and South Africa, where he participated in the G20 Development Working Group Ministerial.

The new Africa Trade Hub enhances Canada’s capacity for economic analysis on Africa’s strategic issues, promotes diversified and inclusive international trade and investment, and builds networks to advance Canada’s commercial interests and stakeholder knowledge of African markets.

The new Africa Trade and Development Program supports intra-regional economic integration and expanded market opportunities for both African and Canadian businesses. As implementation advances, the Program will foster inclusive economic growth that reduces poverty and increases Canadian private sector engagement in key African markets.

Since January 2025, Global Affairs Canada’s Africa branch has taken part in over 20 diaspora engagement activities in Canada. An African Diaspora Engagement Mechanism was announced at the Second Canada-African Union Commission High-Level Dialogue in November 2024.

Canada’s international assistance in Sudan

Issue

On Oct 2 2025, The Globe and Mail described the conflict in Sudan as among the world’s deadliest, fuelling famine and mass displacement. The conflict has major geopolitical ties across Africa and the Middle East.

Responsive lines

Canada is providing life-saving assistance in Sudan, including food, water, sanitation, and health services including support to survivors of sexual violence. So far in 2025, Canada is the third-largest humanitarian donor.
Despite limited resources, Canada’s support reflects global leadership and commitment to human rights, helping communities recover from famine, restore health services, and deliver conflict-sensitive education.
Canada’s assistance in Sudan has reached millions of displaced people. As of early 2025, over 12.8 million have been displaced due to conflict. In January alone, humanitarian organizations, including those funded by Canada, reached 2.9 million people with aid.
Over 24.6M people in Sudan face acute food insecurity, with 640K people experiencing famine levels of food insecurity. Canada is contributing to global efforts to prevent further deterioration and improve food security, including supporting seed distribution reaching 7.5M people.
The conflict fuels regional instability across the Sahel, Horn of Africa, Middle East. Canada is taking targeted diplomatic action to enable humanitarian access, protect civilians, and has imposed three rounds of sanctions. Canada supports peacebuilding and a civilian-led democratic transition.

Releasable background

On April 15, 2023, conflict erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), triggering severe humanitarian crisis - 64% of the population - 30.4M- people need humanitarian assistance. As of August 2025, over half the population, nearly 25M people, face severe food insecurity. Sudan has one of the highest prevalence rates of global acute malnutrition. 4.9M children under five and pregnant women are acutely malnourished. Millions have fled to neighbouring countries already facing humanitarian emergencies, straining regional stability through refugee flows, cross-border attacks, and foreign involvement.

UN reports implicate all parties to the conflict in gross violations or abuses of international human rights law and serious violations of international humanitarian law, some of which may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity. The formation of two parallel governments raises concerns about bifurcation of the country. Both sides have been implicated in aid obstruction.

Canada continues to call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, unimpeded humanitarian access throughout the country, and a transition to civilian-led governance. On April 15, 2025, Canada participated in the London Sudan Conference and issued a joint G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement that denounced atrocities committed by warring parties and affiliates in Sudan. On August 14, 2025, Canada released a joint donor statement urging a humanitarian pause in El Fasher, where civilians face famine and increasing violence. On September 9, 2025, Canada delivered a national statement during the 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council, responding to the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission’s report on Sudan. Canada also implemented three rounds of autonomous sanctions targeting key SAF and RSF leaders and their procurement and financial networks, with the latest announced in March 2025.

Since the conflict began, Canada has allocated over $121M in humanitarian assistance in Sudan. To date in 2025 Canada announced $14.5M in development assistance, $24.8M in peace and stabilization support and allocated $64M in humanitarian assistance.

On Oct 6, 2025 CBC reported on horrific conditions fuelled by the conflict.

Canada’s international assistance in the Indo-Pacific

The Indo-Pacific is a cornerstone of global prosperity with its future and stability hinging on the region’s ability to address poverty, inequality, climate change, and geopolitical tensions.
Canada is a trusted development partner in the region, advancing democratic governance, climate resilience, gender equality, and inclusive economic growth through strategic bilateral and regional initiatives.
Canada has provided $5.6 billion in development assistance since 2000 to the ASEAN region alone. (Optional: This includes regional and bilateral assistance to ASEAN and in ASEAN Member States as well as through multilateral organizations.)

Supplementary messages

Canada is delivering concrete results by strengthening partnerships, expanding scholarships, and increasing development assistance in Southeast Asia.
Canada’s approach in the Indo-Pacific is evolving to reflect emerging trade opportunities, shifting security dynamics, and broader geopolitical realignments.

Update

Canada deepened its development engagement by establishing its first dedicated Pacific Island international assistance program and opening a resident High Commission in Suva, Fiji.

Supporting facts and figures

The Indo-Pacific is home to 37% of the world’s poorest people, and countries in the Indo-Pacific will require an estimated U.S. $26 trillion for infrastructure by 2030.
The region is home to 70% of the world’s natural disasters.
The Indo-Pacific region is responsible for 53% of global GHG emissions and shows the fastest growth in emissions, in addition to accounting for most of the world’s transboundary pollution.
Fully half of new Canadians come from the region.

Background

Canada’s IPS, launched in November 2022, is a whole-of-government framework for engagement in the region. The Government of Canada has supported the region through bilateral and regional development programs, focusing on climate finance, global health, biodiversity, gender equality, and human rights. The IPS focusses on strengthening partnerships with Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Pacific Islands, regions that have been prioritized for new investments. The Government delivers programs in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar, Mongolia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, along with three regional programs covering the Association of South-East Nations (ASEAN), Pan-Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

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Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS)

Issue

As a key driver of global economic growth and a central focus of geopolitical competition, the Indo-Pacific region will play a critical role in shaping Canada’s future over the next half-century.

To meet this reality, Canada’s IPS, launched in November 2022, is a 10-year, whole-of-government framework for strategic engagement in this region.

Canada remains committed to IPS implementation to safeguard its national interests and contribute to regional stability and prosperity.

Responsive lines

Despite being a vital region for global economic growth, the Indo-Pacific faces challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
Canada has deep economic ties, strong people-to-people connections, and a Pacific identity that reinforces engagement in shaping a stable and prosperous region.
Since launching the IPS in November 2022, Canada has made significant implementation progress.
On development cooperation, new initiatives have focused on: connecting people, promoting sustainability, and strengthening partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. This has included expanding scholarships, increasing aid in Southeast Asia, and supporting development efforts in the Pacific Islands.
Canada will increasingly leverage the link between development and trade (trade-dev nexus) in our international assistance to better support economic and trade objectives, while concurrently addressing challenges faced in the Indo-Pacific region.

Releasable background

The Indo-Pacific region encompasses 40 countries and economies, over 4 billion people, and $47.19 trillion in economic activity, making it the world’s fastest-growing economic region. It represents more than one-third of global economic activity and is home to 3 of the world’s top 5 economies: China, India, and Japan. The region will account for more than half of global Gross Domestic Product by 2040 and is projected to be home to two-thirds of the global middle class by 2030. Almost 20% of new Canadians come from the region, close to 18% of Canadians have family ties to the region and 60% of the international students coming to Canada hail from the Indo-Pacific.
The Indo-Pacific also remains home to two-thirds of the world's poor, with an estimated 1.7 billion people living on less than $2 a day. Persistent challenges, including energy and food insecurity, infrastructure gaps, democratic governance, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation, are compounded by natural disasters, forced migration, and the lingering impacts of COVID-19 and other infectious disease such as polio. These risks highlight the fragility of development gains, particularly for women, children, ethnic minorities, and marginalized groups amidst a wider policy context deeply influenced by geopolitical developments.
Through Global Affairs Canada, the government delivers bilateral development programs in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar, Mongolia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, along with three regional programs covering the Association of South-East Nations (ASEAN), Pan-Indo-Pacific, and the Pacific Islands. The Government of Canada’s approach to the region has been anchored in the Indo-Pacific Strategy.
Through this framework, the government has been strengthening partnerships and expanding international development assistance, with a particular focus on Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines and the Pacific Islands.

Support for Rohingya and those impacted by ongoing violence in Myanmar

Amid escalating violence and a worsening humanitarian crisis, Canada continues to respond to the protracted Rohingya crisis, while supporting efforts toward justice, human rights, peace, and democracy in Myanmar.

Responsive lines

Sunset of Canada’s Strategy to Respond to the Rohingya and Myanmar Crises: Canada continues to provide leadership responding to the Rohingya and Myanmar crises. Through our diplomatic efforts and international assistance, we remain committed to protecting human rights, sustaining access to essential services, and keeping hope alive for a peaceful and democratic future for all Myanmar’s people.

Humanitarian Assistance: Through trusted partners, Canada is providing life-saving food, shelter, healthcare, and protection for Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh, as well as for crisis-affected communities in Myanmar. This year alone, we have allocated $15 million in humanitarian assistance in Bangladesh, and over $25 million in Myanmar.

Conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV): Canada remains deeply concerned about the gendered impacts of these crises. That is why we support programs that help protect women, girls and gender-diverse people from trafficking, sexual violence, and exploitation, while helping to ensure their access to the healthcare, justice and support services they need.

Accountability and Justice: Canada continues to support efforts toward international justice, including through the joint intervention in the International Court of Justice and the UN’s International Investigative Mechanism on Myanmar. We stand firm in our call for accountability for violations of human rights and international law.

Sanctions: Canada has imposed 10 rounds of targeted sanctions against individuals and entities linked to the Myanmar military regime—sending a clear message that impunity for human rights violations will not be tolerated.

ASEAN and Regional Diplomacy: Canada urges for inclusive dialogue, the cessation of violence, and humanitarian access – key elements of ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus. We encourage the efforts of regional partners – including Malaysia as the 2025 ASEAN Chair – to promote peace and stability in Myanmar and develop durable solutions to the Rohingya crisis.

Regime-planned Elections: Canada remains deeply concerned about regime elections planned for later this year, which may exacerbate violence with grave implications for the country and broader region. We call for genuine and inclusive democratic processes that reflect the will of Myanmar’s people and uphold the rights of all, including Rohingya.

Releasable background

Myanmar remains in a protracted humanitarian and political crisis following the February 2021 military coup. Armed conflict has intensified, and movement restrictions severely limit humanitarian access, threatening delivery of life-saving assistance. Nearly 1.2 million Rohingya refugees live in difficult conditions in Bangladesh, while ongoing violence and persecution in Myanmar prevent their safe, voluntary, and dignified return. With few opportunities for self-reliance, many Rohingya risk dangerous sea journeys in search of safety.

Canada has strongly condemned the coup and continues to call for an end to violence, the release of political prisoners, and unrestricted humanitarian access. Canada is deeply concerned that regime-planned elections may worsen civil unrest and political violence, with serious implications for Myanmar and the region.

Since 2017, Canada has provided over $600 million in response to the Rohingya and Myanmar crises, combining humanitarian aid with support for peace, stabilization, and development. In 2025, Canada allocated an additional $15 million for Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh, and over $25 million for crisis-affected communities in Myanmar, including in response to the March 2025 earthquake. Through trusted partners, Canada’s support promotes health care, food security, gender equality, and livelihoods for those affected by ongoing conflict and displacement.

Canada is pursuing accountability for serious crimes in Myanmar, supporting the joint intervention at the International Court of Justice and the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM). To date, Canada has imposed 10 rounds of targeted sanctions against individuals and entities linked to the military regime. At the UN High-Level Conference on Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar (September 30, 2025), Canada reaffirmed its commitment to coordinated action, regional cooperation, and accountability.

Myanmar’s instability fuels transnational crime, irregular migration, and economic disruption across Southeast Asia. Canada remains committed to supporting peace, resilience, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and supports ASEAN-led efforts to the Rohingya and Myanmar crises, including the Five-Point Consensus and the work of the ASEAN Special Envoy.

Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan

Issue

Nearly half of all Afghans are in need of humanitarian assistance, struggling with an influx of returnees, natural disasters, and the Taliban’s systemic violation of women’s and girls’ rights.

Responsive lines

Deeply concerned by the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the Taliban’s deplorable violations of Afghan women’s and girls’ rights.
Canada remains committed to supporting the Afghan people, especially Afghan women and girls.
In response to the September 2025 devastating earthquakes, Canada announced $3M in humanitarian support.
Canada delivers assistance through both humanitarian and development channels, focusing on critical and essential needs; we work through experienced and trusted UN and NGO partners, out of the control of the Taliban de facto authorities.
Since 2021, Canada’s more than $290M in humanitarian assistance has been complemented by over $143M in development programming in health and education, and women’s and girls’ rights and empowerment in Afghanistan.

Releasable background

International assistance: Since 2001, Canada has provided over $4.25 billion in combined humanitarian, development, and peace and security assistance through trusted multilateral organizations as well as Canadian and international NGOs. Funds do not go through the systems of the Taliban de-facto authorities. In 2023, Canada amended the Criminal Code to facilitate the provision of international assistance to respond to essential needs in Afghanistan.

Supporting facts and figures

Since 2021, Canada's development assistance has contributed to the procurement of essential medical supplies, including vaccines for 1.7 million children and 6.1 million women, and supported 2,400 health facilities across the country. Essential health supplies were provided to 4,720 health posts for over 560,000 vulnerable Afghans, predominately women and children, and over 189,000 beneficiaries accessed maternal, newborn and child health services.
Canada pivoted when previously supported community-based education for girls was forcibly ended by the Taliban in 2024, to alternative learning pathways countering the Taliban's harmful bans, including: 38 After-School-Learning Centres established supporting 1,900 students; online secondary school for 620 Afghan girls; and scholarships to 50 Afghan women for post-secondary studies.

Humanitarian and basic needs situation: There are 22.9 million people (half the population) in need of humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan. The UN has appealed for US $2.42 billion for the 16.8 million most vulnerable. Since January 2025, more than 2 million Afghans have returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan and Iran, placing additional pressure on already overstretched systems. The UN warns that the country is facing a rapidly worsening humanitarian crisis in 2025, as this year has seen the highest spike in acute malnutrition ever recorded, with more than 4.7 million women and children in need of urgent treatment. For the earthquake response, the UN has appealed for US $139.6 million in humanitarian aid to help close to half a million people affected.

The hazaras in Afghanistan

Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara community.
Canada acknowledges the historic and systematic discrimination and persecution of the Hazara population in Afghanistan.
Since August 2021, more than 60,000 Afghan refugees have been resettled in Canada through our special immigration humanitarian program that focused on resettling vulnerable Afghan nationals, such as persecuted religious or ethnic minorities, including Hazaras.

Supplementary messages

Canada has consistently expressed deep concern about the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender.
Canada condemns all attacks against the Hazara community in Afghanistan.
The Government of Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan until they have made demonstrable progress on their human rights obligations.

Supporting facts and figures

Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP), a United Nations designated terrorist organization, is largely responsible for numerous attacks against Hazaras, killing over 700 people since the Taliban takeover in August 2021.
Canada continues to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara community.

Responsive - Recognizing the Hazara genocide

The determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must be done by a competent international or national court or tribunal, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, to which Canada is a party.

Background

Hazaras are a Persian-speaking ethnic minority, accounting for approximately 10-20 percent of Afghanistan’s total population. An overwhelming majority of Hazara are Shia (Shi’ite) Muslim. Hazaras have been persecuted for centuries in Afghanistan, primarily because of their religious affiliations.
The level of insecurity and persecution of Hazaras has increased overall since the Taliban takeover and the withdrawal of international troops. Hazaras’ prominent roles in the previous government have made them targets for reprisals.
Significant attacks against the Hazara community in Afghanistan include the September 30, 2022 attack at the Kaaj education center in Kabul that killed more than 50 people, mostly Hazara girls studying for exams. As recently as September 12, 2024, 14 Hazaras were killed returning home from visiting shrines in Iraq.
Canada directly supports local and global human rights monitoring efforts, funding actionable reporting and documentation of the Taliban’s human rights abuses. This includes training, the publication of reports, hosting global advocacy forums, and the provision of investigative expertise to the UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Afghanistan.

Pakistan: Floods and Canada’s international assistance to Pakistan

Issue

Since June 2025, Pakistan has experienced severe monsoon rains and flooding, with over 6.9 million people affected, 3.5 million people displaced and over 1000 fatalities reported.

Responsive lines

Canada remains concerned about the current flood crisis in Pakistan. Since June 2025, Pakistan has experienced severe monsoon rains and flooding, with over 6.9 million people affected, 3.5 million people displaced and over 1000 fatalities reported.
Canada is providing $2.6 million in humanitarian assistance to Pakistan to support emergency relief, which includes targeted support for displaced families, emergency shelter, clean water, sanitation and hygiene services.
In response to the floods, Canada provided $350,000 to Save the Children Canada in Pakistan and $250,000 to the Pakistan Red Crescent Society’s relief operations. This complements a $2M allocation to UNHCR for protection and other life-saving support to displaced persons in Pakistan.
Canada is also providing support to joint donor funded humanitarian relief efforts, such as the UN’s Central Emergency Relief Fund, Internal Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Disaster Emergency Response Fund, and Regional Humanitarian Pooled Fund for Asia Pacific.
Canada’s humanitarian flood relief additionally builds on existing bilateral development assistance being provided to Pakistan to support women’s reproductive health and rights, girls’ access to education, women’s economic empowerment, and polio eradication.

Releasable background

Canada has a history of over 73 years of successful development cooperation with Pakistan.
Canada’s bilateral relations with Pakistan are underpinned by extensive people-to-people ties, with over 300,000 Canadians of Pakistani origin in Canada and approximately 20,000 Canadians in Pakistan.
In 2023/24, Canada’s overall international assistance to Pakistan was $103.6 million, of which $53.9 million was disbursed by Global Affairs Canada.
Pakistan is one of the hardest hit countries globally in terms of the effects of climate change. In 2022, it was ranked as the most climate impacted country by the German Watch Climate Risk Index.
In both 2022 and 2025, Pakistan faced severe monsoons and flooding. The 2022 floods were particularly devastating with more than 33 million people impacted, 1,700 deaths reported, loss of land, and loss of productivity. Approximately one third of the country was submerged by floodwaters.
For the 2022 crisis, Canada mobilized $58 million in international assistance to support both emergency humanitarian relief and longer-term development rehabilitation efforts. The recovery portion is ongoing.
Canada’s existing bilateral development assistance support to Pakistan includes flood recovery, women’s reproductive health and rights, girls’ access to education, women’s economic empowerment, and polio eradication.
In response to the 2025 floods, other donors that have provided relief include: the UK (£2.53M), the European Union (€1,05M), the United States ($1M USD, plus direct in-kind assistance), and Singapore ($50,000 USD).

Facts and figures

Approximately 37.8 million people in Pakistan (of a total population of 250 million) live on less than US $3.00/per day (2021 PPP - purchasing power parity).
Approximately 20% of Pakistan’s population is undernourished, according to the UN World Food Programme.
Pakistan has the world’s second-highest number of children out-of-school at approximately 25 million, mostly girls.
The country ranks 148 out of 148 countries included in the 2025 Global Gender Gap Report and ranks 6^th globally in early child marriages.
Pakistan is one of two countries in the world where polio remains endemic.

Canada’s international assistance in Latin America and the Caribbean

Canada is the 6^th largest bilateral donor to the region, providing $1.3 billion in fiscal year 2023-2024.
Key areas in which we have focused our development assistance include combating the spread of transnational organized crime, combating and adapting to climate change, and protecting and promoting democracy and human rights.
We remain committed to providing assistance to the region where the interests of Canada and the recipient country align.

Supplementary messages

Despite making significant progress in reducing poverty, the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) region remains one of the most unequal in the world.
Due mostly to organized crime, LAC continues to have the world’s highest homicide rates.
The high level of irregular migration in the region has placed a significant burden on the many host and transit countries in the region.
Investing to improve security and prosperity in our hemisphere not only helps our neighbours but can also benefit our own security and prosperity.

Supporting facts and figures

In 2023-2024, LAC received 10% of Canada’s total international assistance.
In that year, Canada was the 6th largest Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) donor of assistance to the region (after Germany, U.S., France, Japan, and Spain).
In 2023-2024, Haiti was the 3rd largest recipient of Canadian international development assistance (behind Ukraine and Ethiopia).
Global Affairs Canada’s bilateral and regional assistance to LAC was $949 million (excluding Mexico) in 2023-24 ($955 million including Mexico).
The remainder of Canada’s funding to the region was provided by other departments ($77 million) or through Canada’s multilateral funding ($241 million).
Nearly a third of the LAC population experienced food insecurity in 2023.
LAC is the second-most exposed region in the world to extreme weather events.
The region recorded its lowest poverty rate ever in 2022, with 25% of the population living in poverty.
LAC has only 9% of the global population, but one-third of the world’s homicides.
There are over 23 million forcibly displaced people in LAC, not including the millions of economic and other migrants who have left their homes for various reasons.

Background

The aid environment is evolving rapidly in LAC, with the growth of non-traditional donors like China and the sudden and major reduction of U.S. assistance in recent months. In 2023, the U.S. was the region’s second largest donor, providing $3.7 billion in official development assistance. Recent U.S. funding cuts have created a major gap in assistance funding to the region. Canada’s assistance helps support its geopolitical priorities by providing alternatives to growing Chinese economic engagement in LAC, and the potential political leverage that comes with it.

Canada’s growing trade with LAC, and the free trade agreements it has with 7 countries in the region, represent an important avenue for Canadian trade diversification. Canadian international assistance and economic investments in LAC can help demonstrate Canada’s engagement in the region and underscore Canada’s status as a reliable partner.

Global Affairs Canada’s assistance to the region is delivered through three regional programs (Central America, Caribbean, and the Inter-American regional program), as well as bilateral programming in Haiti, Cuba, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, and Venezuela.

Canada’s approach to international assistance to Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC)

Issue

Canada is the 6th largest donor to the region, providing $1.3 billion in 2023-2024. The aid environment is evolving rapidly in LAC, with the growth of non-traditional donors like China and the significant and sudden reduction of U.S. assistance.

Responsive lines

Canada is the 6th largest OECD donor to the region, providing $1.3 billion in 2023-2024, which was 10% of the government’s overall international assistance.
Despite making significant progress in reducing poverty, the LAC region remains one of the most unequal in the world, and has the world’s highest homicide rates, mostly due to organized crime. Further, the high level of irregular migration in the region has placed a significant burden on the many host and transit countries in the region.
Our priorities for development assistance include: fighting the spread of transnational organized crime, protecting and promoting democracy and human rights, responding to irregular migration, supporting inclusive growth, advancing gender equality and combating and adapting to climate change.
Investing to improve security and prosperity in our hemisphere not only helps our neighbours but can also benefit our own security and prosperity.
Pursuant to the Comprehensive Expenditure Review announced by the government, we will be reviewing our development assistance. We remain committed to providing assistance to the region where the interests of Canada and the recipient countries align.

Releasable background

Despite the progress the region has made in reducing poverty, countries in LAC continue to face important challenges. Income inequality is high and nearly a third of the LAC population experienced food insecurity in 2023. LAC is the second-most exposed region in the world to extreme weather events. There are over 23 million forcibly displaced people in LAC, not including the millions of economic and other migrants who have left their homes for various reasons. Transnational organized crime in the region continues to spread and is becoming increasingly interconnected with significant growth in synthetic drug trafficking and escalating violence. The region has 9% of the global population, but one-third of the world’s homicides. Some governments have suspended rights, restricted civil society and taken legislative steps which undermine the rule of law in the name of combatting crime. Democratic institutions are under threat in many countries in the Americas, due in part to corruption, political violence, human rights violations, political polarization and persistent inequality.

At the same time, the aid environment in changing rapidly in LAC. China has become an important source of investment and trade, while recent cuts in U.S. support have created a major gap in funding to the region. Canada’s assistance helps support its geopolitical priorities by providing alternatives to growing Chinese economic engagement in LAC, and the potential political leverage that comes with it.

In 2023-24, Canada was the 6th largest Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development donor of assistance to the region (after Germany, U.S., France, Japan and Spain). Global Affairs Canada’s bilateral and regional assistance to LAC was $955 million (including Mexico). This assistance is delivered through three regional programs (Central America, Caribbean and the Inter-American regional program), as well as bilateral programming in Haiti, Cuba, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, and Venezuela. In addition, Canada’s Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program currently funds 40 projects in 31 countries across the region, valued at $153.6 million, to enhance state and civil society capacity to counter and prevent transnational organized crime.

Haiti integrated assistance

The security, political, and humanitarian situations in Haiti remain dire. In response, the UN Security Council recently authorized a new, strengthened multinational Gang Suppression Force backed by a robust UN Support Office.

Responsive lines

Deeply concerned by continued gang violence and political instability in Haiti, which has precipitated a humanitarian crisis and is impeding a return to democratic governance. Growing gang linkages to existing organized crime networks is undermining regional security.
A sustained, coordinated response -- integrating humanitarian aid, development efforts, and security support -- is essential to address the urgent needs of the Haitian population and lay the foundation for long-term stability and resilience.
Notwithstanding the overall dire situation, Canada’s assistance since 2022 – over $450 million – has helped prevent full gang takeover, fed children in schools, enhanced small farmers’ resilience, and provided critical food and nutrition assistance, health, and protection services.
On September 23, Canada announced $60M to support multilateral efforts to stabilize Haiti and address regional drug and arms trafficking. This builds on Canadian efforts to galvanize further international support, including for the recent UN Security Council endorsed Gang Suppression Force and UN Support Office in Haiti.
While the situation is precarious and deeply concerning, Canada will continue to provide support and assistance to the Haitian people.

Releasable background

Humanitarian

According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 6 million people – nearly half of the population – need humanitarian assistance, including over 2 million facing emergency level of food insecurity. Of these, nearly 1.3 million are internally displaced, mainly in Port-au-Prince where gangs control as much as 90% of the territory. Widespread insecurity, airport closures and blocked roads have worsened humanitarian conditions, hindered aid delivery, and hampered stabilization and development efforts. Escalating violence and repeated attacks on humanitarian actors have further constrained operations and limited access to vulnerable populations. The hurricane season adds pressure to an already fragile humanitarian context.

Security

Since June 2024, the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) has established a presence in Haiti and carried out joint operations with the Haitian National Police. While the mission has had some successes, it has also faced challenges including strong resistance from the gangs, shortages of funding and troops, and issues of governance and accountability. On Sept 30, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution to transition the MSSM into a Gang Suppression Force backed by a UN Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH). This revised mandate aims to improve the effectiveness of the mission and allows it to access UN assessed contributions and logistical and operational support. The resolution also approved a Standing Group of Partners to provide strategic direction for the mission. Canada has confirmed its intention to be a member. During the UN General Assembly, Canada hosted a high-level side event to mobilize political engagement and contributions from the international community and announced an additional $40M to support the mission and $20M to strengthen regional maritime security.

Political transition and corruption

The Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) was established in April 2024 to address Haiti’s political crisis. Its mandate includes restoring security and organizing free and fair elections by February 2026. The TPC has been plagued by allegations of corruption and is struggling to fulfill its mandate. Haiti’s crisis is driven by entrenched corruption, impunity, and inequality. Canada is working with G7 and multilateral partners to advance anti-corruption efforts and has taken a leadership role by imposing 34 sanctions under its autonomous regime, in addition to implementing UN sanctions.

Venezuela crisis and regional disputes

Under de facto President Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela has become an authoritarian state and a major source of geopolitical instability. Nearly 8 million Venezuelans have fled the country, making it one of the largest global displacement crises.

Venezuela and Guyana have a long-standing dispute over the Essequibo region, where Canadian mining and energy companies are operating.

Responsive lines

Canada unequivocally condemns the ongoing repression and restrictions on civic space in Venezuela by the de facto regime.
Canada has recognized Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia as President-elect of Venezuela and has condemned the illegitimate inauguration of Nicolas Maduro.
Canada is committed to work with international partners and within multilateral forums, including at the UN, the G7, and the OAS, to advance human rights and support a democratic solution to the Venezuela crisis.
Since 2017, Canada has imposed targeted sanctions on a total of 139 members of the Maduro regime implicated in attacks on democratic institutions, human rights violations, and significant acts of corruption.
The Government of Canada has reiterated on multiple occasions its support for Guyana’s sovereignty and supports calls for the peaceful resolution of the dispute through the process already underway at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Responsive on US deployment of warships near Venezuela:
The Government of Canada is aware of the U.S. operation and is monitoring the situation.
Responsive on US use of Canadian technology to target alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea:
This is a U.S. operation. Global Affairs Canada is aware of the operation and is monitoring the situation.

Releasable background

Under de facto President Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela has become an authoritarian state and a major source of geopolitical insecurity, notably because of its permissive environment for foreign armed groups –notably, Colombia’s Dissident-Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and National Liberation Army (ELN)- and criminal organizations, its massive migration outflows, its disregard for democratic processes, and systemic human rights violations. The Maduro regime also benefits from the strategic support of Russia, China, Iran, Cuba and Türkiye.
On January 10, 2025, Maduro was illegitimately inaugurated after fraudulently altering the results of the July 28, 2024, presidential election. Several countries, including the U.S., the U.K., the EU and many Latin American countries have publicly condemned Maduro’s increasing and illegitimate grip on power. G7 Foreign Ministers issued their first statement under the Canadian presidency on Venezuela on January 10, 2025.
Venezuela represents one of the largest global displacement crises, with nearly 7.8 million refugees and migrants across the world. About 85% remain in the region, straining the capacities of host governments.
Canada has provided over $180 million in support to Venezuelan migrants in host countries across the region. Since 2019, Canada has also delivered $56.8 million in humanitarian assistance to address the crisis inside Venezuela, including $9.3 million in 2025 through UN and NGO partners.
Venezuela and Guyana have a long-standing dispute over the Essequibo region (2/3 of Guyana’s current territory) - where Canadian mining and energy companies are operating. Since late 2023, the Maduro regime has been deliberately increasing tensions with Guyana to distract Venezuelans from the regime’s actions to undermine democracy and human rights, and from their worsening economic circumstances.
A CBC article, published Monday October 6, reported that Canadian technology helped the U.S. strike alleged Venezuelan drug boats. The article referenced a report from Project Ploughshares — which describes itself as a "peace research institute with a focus on disarmament efforts and international security" — saying that the U.S. military used a Canadian-made L3Harris WESCAM MX-Series sensor system to track and surveil boats that were struck as they sailed from Venezuela in the first two strikes publicized in September. In a statement, a GAC spokesperson declared that "Global Affairs Canada is aware of the U.S. operation and is monitoring the situation."

Canada’s international assistance in Europe

Canada’s bilateral International Assistance to Ukraine in 2024-2025 totaled $3.1 billion, including $13M in humanitarian assistance, $130M in development assistance, $54M in conflict, peace and security assistance, and $2.9B in financial assistance provided through the Department of Finance.
Canada’s International Assistance to the Middle East** in 2024-2025 totalled $509M, including $298M in humanitarian assistance, $156M in development assistance and $55M in peace and security assistance.
In 2024-2025 financial year, top recipients in the Middle East were the Palestinian territories ($149M), Syria ($102M), Lebanon ($87M), Jordan ($61M), and Yemen ($59M).

Supplementary messages

Ukraine

Prime Minister Carney’s leadership in the G7 and visit to Kyiv on August 24th demonstrate Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s immediate and long-term resilience, recovery and eventual reconstruction needs.
Canada is also leading efforts to address the war’s human dimension and is continuing to increase economic pressure on Russia to degrade its capacity to wage war.

Middle East

As a top donor responding to the crisis in Gaza and the West Bank, Canada has committed over $400M in international assistance since October 7, 2023.
We continue to call on Israel to facilitate the safe, rapid and unimpeded passage of aid into and throughout Gaza via the UN-led system.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada is among the largest contributors to humanitarian response efforts in Ukraine: $395.65 million since January 2022 ($13 million in 2024/25).
The development program ($130 million in 2024/25) advances inclusive governance, economic resilience, human dignity and gender equality, in line with Ukraine’s aim of EU accession. Canada (Finance) also provided $2.9 billion in financial assistance in 2024/25.
Ukraine remains a country of focus for Canada’s conflict, peace and security support, receiving $54 million in 2024/25 for Ukraine’s resilience and resistance.
Canada is one of the largest contributors to humanitarian response efforts in the Middle East ($298 million in 2024/25). Efforts focus on addressing urgent life-saving needs, such as food, water and emergency healthcare.
Development programs ($156 million in 2024/25) focus on education, health, economic growth, climate change and women’s equality. This assistance addresses causes of instability by reducing poverty, increasing socio-economic opportunities, supporting governance and human rights, and mitigating climate risks.
Peace and Security programming ($55 million in 2024/25) contributes to security sector reform, including building the capacity of national military, intelligence and law enforcement counterparts to counter crime and terrorism and address threats posed by the proliferation and use of weapons of mass destruction while supporting mine action, political transitions and enabling peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery efforts.

Canada’s support to Ukraine

Issue

Canada is delivering multi-faceted support to Ukraine including development, humanitarian, macroeconomic, military, security and stabilization assistance.

Top lines

Since February 2022, Canada has committed nearly $22 billion in multifaceted support to Ukraine, which includes economic, military, humanitarian, development, security and stabilization assistance.
Canada’s assistance aligns with Ukraine’s vision for its recovery, reconstruction and eventual integration into the European Union, as well as working to create the conditions for greater and deeper Canadian trade and investment opportunities with Ukraine.
Prime Minister Carney’s August 24th visit to Kyiv reinforced Canada’s steadfast support to Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and long-term security.
The Prime Minister’s recent appointment of Chrystia Freeland as Canada’s Special Representative for the Reconstruction of Ukraine shows our commitment to support Ukraine’s recovery and advance economic partnership.

Responsive lines

Appointment of Chrystia Freeland as Special Representative for the reconstruction of Ukraine

Prime Minister Carney appointed Chrystia Freeland as Canada’s Special Representative for the Reconstruction of Ukraine, in addition to her responsibilities as a Member of Parliament.
The Special Representative role is designed to advance Canada’s economic and security interests, while upholding our commitment to Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction, and promoting shared priorities with European Union partners and other like-minded allies.

Supplementary messages

Canada does not support recognition of territorial gains made by force and opposes premature easing of pressure on Russia.
The safe return of Ukrainian prisoners and deported persons must be central to any negotiated settlement. It is not only a legal obligation under international humanitarian law, but also a humanitarian imperative and confidence-building measure that can help lay the foundation for durable peace.
We remain concerned with the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Eastern Ukraine, and the impact of hostilities on civilians and civilian infrastructure, and slow progress in returning the prisoners or war, deported children and detained civilians.
Canada is leading global efforts to address the human dimension of the war, co-chairing the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children and the Kyiv-based Working Group on the Release of All Prisoners and Deported Persons.
The Prime Minister hosted with President Zelenskyy a leaders’ level meeting of the Coalition at this year’s UN High-Level Week, which amplified attention and ramped up pressure on Russia.
Canada hosted the October 2024 Ministerial Conference that launched the Montreal Pledge – endorsed by 54 states and organizations.
We have invested over $27 million in initiatives to support the safe return and reintegration of affected Ukrainians.
Canada has committed $6.5 billion in military assistance to Ukraine since 2022, and is steadfast in its commitment to the Coalition of the Willing and its intent to deploy direct and scalable military assistance in support of upholding a ceasefire and lasting peace.
Under Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces have trained more than 46,000 Security Forces of Ukraine personnel since 2014.

Releasable background

Development Assistance supports inclusive governance and economic resilience while addressing emerging needs such as energy sector repair and reconstruction.
Humanitarian Assistance responds to impacts of Russia’s invasion, supporting emergency health interventions, protection services, and shelter, water, sanitation, and food security.
Peace, Security & Stabilization Assistance supports peace and stabilization, cyber resilience and nuclear security, as well as democratic resilience. In February 2024, Canada and Ukraine signed the Agreement on Security Cooperation between Canada and Ukraine.
Macro-economic Assistance helps Ukraine meet its general budgetary needs, including loans through the International Monetary Fund Administered Account for Ukraine that Canada has championed; a direct bilateral loan; and a European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) loan guarantee.
Military Assistance and Cooperation:On August 24, 2025, Prime Minister Carney and President Zelensky announced an Action Plan for the implementation of the bilateral Agreement on Security Cooperation. Under Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have trained more than 46,000 Security Forces of Ukraine (SFU) personnel since 2015. CAF continues to train SFU personnel in third country locations.
Sanctions/Economic Pressure on Russia: Since 2014, Canada has imposed sanctions on more than 3,300 individuals and entities including those who are complicit in the violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and in gross and systematic human rights violations. Canada has also sanctioned over 300 Russia-linked vessels involved in the movement of oil, liquefied natural gas, arms and other items for the benefit of Russia. On September 3,2025, Canada lowered its price cap for Russian crude oil from US$60 to US$47.60 per barrel.

Supporting figures

Canada has consistently been among the top donors to Ukraine. Since 2022, Canada has committed nearly $22 billion in multi-faceted assistance for Ukraine, including:
- $12.3 billion in macro-economic support (highest per capita contribution in G7)
- $6.5 billion in military assistance
- $702.1 million in recovery and reconstruction, including development assistance
- $395.7 million in humanitarian assistance
- $229.8 million in security and stabilization assistance.
In 2024-2025, Canada’s bilateral International Assistance to Ukraine totaled $3.1 billion (preliminary figure), including:
- $13 million in humanitarian assistance
- $130 million in development assistance
- $54 million in conflict, peace and security assistance
- $2.9 billion in financial assistance (loans) provided through the Department of Finance.

Project profiles

Vietnam project profile - GAC-funded Oxfam Canada “GORice” International Assistance Project in Vietnam

In March 2025, Global Affairs Canada partnered with Oxfam Canada on a climate project aimed at promoting low-carbon rice value chains in Vietnam.
The initiative will improve the livelihoods of small-scale rice producers and processors, by promoting climate-smart agriculture, agricultural waste management and inclusive economic empowerment.
The project aims to benefit approximately 40,000 people involved in the rice sector, and supports Vietnam’s national goal to grow one million hectares of low-emission rice by 2030.

Supplementary messages

Vietnam is a focus country in the Indo-Pacific region for Canada, with international assistance part of Canada’s broader bilateral engagement efforts that seek to grow our economic relationship and increase trade and investment opportunities.
Rice farming is associated with environmental degradation, and responsible for half of Vietnam’s agricultural emissions.
Developed through broad consultations with government, donors, civil society, and the private sector, the GORice project complements Vietnam’s efforts to build a resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.
This engagement advances inclusive and sustainable development, promotes climate resilience, and reinforces Canada’s role as a reliable partner in the region.

Supporting facts and figures

Vietnam is Canada’s top trading partner in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
In 2024, two-way merchandise trade totaled $15.6 billion in 2024 (up from $14.1 billion in 2023).
Since 1990 Canada has contributed approximately $1.9 billion in international assistance to support Vietnam’s development and poverty reduction efforts.
In FY2024-25, GAC’s bilateral development program to Vietnam expanded with 10 new projects approved valued at $69 million over six years.

Background

On September 18, the WesternStandard.news website published an article about this Global Affairs Canada-funded climate project in Vietnam implemented by Oxfam Canada titled ‘GORice’. On September 19-21, three Members of Parliament posted on social media a screengrab of the project’s page on the Department’s external Project Browser website, contrasting the cost of the project with inflation and food insecurity in Canada. On October 6, Le Journal de Québec published an article critical of the project, which included quotes from one of the MP’s social media posts. On October 7, the opposition leader MP Poilievre posted on social media a screengrab of the project’s page on Project Browser with the comment: “While you can’t afford food, Mark Carney spends $8.2 million tax dollars on gender-just, low-carbon rice in Vietnam.” Global Affairs Canada published social media content on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Oxfam Canada produced a social media post and a dedicated webpage for the project.

Congo project profile – Beans for Women for Empowerment

Canada’s international assistance is a strategic tool that supports peace, development, and humanitarian goals to advance Canada’s own security and economic interests, and support global stability through accountable, results-driven partnerships.
Canada provides international assistance to the DRC as part of its Africa Strategy, advancing Canada’s interests in global stability and future economic opportunities - including critical minerals, which are vital to the global green economy.
The Beans for Women for Empowerment project is a strategic investment that helps over 2 million people - mostly women and girls - in eastern DRC move from emergency food aid to sustainable farming, in a region heavily affected by conflict and displacement.

Supplementary messages

In March 2025, Canada announced $7 million in crisis response funding to scale up this project to restore food security for displaced families in eastern DRC through emergency seed and tool distribution, food aid, cash transfers, and school and camp feeding programs.
Canada is partnering with the International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), a globally recognized leader in agricultural research, to implement the Beans for Women for Empowerment project, delivering science-based solutions to reduce poverty and food insecurity in the DRC.
In 2023-2024, Canada provided 149 million in international assistance to the DRC, making it the 7^th largest recipient of Canadian international assistance.

Update

Since January 2025, intensified conflict in eastern DRC has triggered mass displacement and deepened an already critical food crisis, with over 10 million people now facing acute food insecurity. Project activities were severely disrupted, as beneficiaries lost access to seeds, markets, and safe movement. In response, the project is integrating crisis-response measures alongside its original planned activities, including an additional $7 million in funding to restore food security for 70,000 new direct beneficiaries.

Supporting facts and figures

DRC/Rwanda Conflict - Canadian Position: In January 2025, Canada issued a statement expressing profound concern over escalating violence in eastern DRC, condemning all support to armed groups, and calling for respect for DRC's territorial integrity. In February 2025, Canada led a G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement expressing deep concern over the escalating conflict in eastern DRC, condemned the activities of armed groups including M23, and calling for an immediate ceasefire, protection of civilians, and respect for international law.
Canada’s International Assistance: In 2023-2024, the DRC was the 7^th largest recipient of Canadian international assistance ($149M). Funding closely aligns with the Congolese government's priorities of strengthening sexual and reproductive health, combatting sexual and gender-based violence, advancing peacebuilding efforts and responding to humanitarian crises.
Bilateral Trade: There are significant Canadian mining investments in the DRC, including in the critical mineral sector, making it the second largest destination for Canadian mining investment in Africa. Canadian imports from the DRC reached $228.4 million in 2024, mostly copper products.
Poverty in DRC: The country is one of the five poorest in the world, with an estimated 73.5% of the population living on less than $2.15 per day in 2024.

Background

The Beans for Women for Empowerment Project ($22 million, 2023-2028) aims to strengthen food security, gender equality and resource rights of women and girls active in the bean sector in three conflict-prone provinces in the eastern DRC: North Kivu, South Kivu, and Tanganyika. The project directly targets 2,070,000 beneficiaries (60% of whom are women and girls).

This project is a concrete example of how Canada implements its Africa Strategy, linking Canadian and African prosperity through support for gender equality, food security, and economic resilience in the DRC. Governed jointly by Canada and the DRC, and guided by conflict sensitivity analysis, the initiative strengthens African partners while laying the groundwork for future commercial opportunities.

Additional information

Appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE)

Mandate of the Secretary of State (International Development)

October 28, 2025

Scenario note

Your in-person, 1-hour appearance, begins at 11:00 a.m.
The following officials are accompanying you in-person during your appearance and may be called upon to respond to questions:
- Christopher MacLennan, Deputy Minister of International Development
- Leslie Norton, Assistant Deputy Minister, International Assistance Partnerships and Programming Branch
- Alexandre Lévêque, Assistant Deputy Minister, Europe, Middle East and Arctic Branch.
Your appearance begins with your opening remarks of 5 minutes, which will be immediately followed by rounds of questions from members.
First round of questions: 6 minutes each for the Conservative Party (CPC), Liberal Party (LPC), Bloc Québécois (BQ).
Second and subsequent rounds of questions: CPC 5 minutes, LPC 5 minutes, BQ 2.5 minutes.
- The time allocated includes the questions from the member and your responses.

FAAE committee member biographies

Committee context

Information on committee members can be found in the member bios section of this briefing binder.
To note: Former Minister of International Development, the Hon. Ahmed Hussen is the FAAE Chair. He appeared as Minister at FAAE on Main Estimates and Supplementary Estimates (C) on May 6, 2024. The tone of the meeting was largely cordial, with more forceful questioning from the CPC. The meeting focused on international assistance and development funding, including funding towards UNRWA, global health, and climate finance.
Broadly speaking, in the last Parliament, as regards international assistance development, the CPC focussed on Canada’s financial contribution in Haiti and Ukraine, as well as on famine and humanitarian issues in Sudan. The LPC members also focussed on Haiti and Sudan, while the BQ raised famine and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Most recently, the committee has engaged in discussions on the following topics related to your mandate: Canada’s response to Haiti; the situation in Ukraine; the situation in Sudan; Canada’s approach to Africa; and Canada’s relations with Latin America and the Caribbean.

Ahmed Hussen (Chair)
LPC – Ontario (Etobicoke – York South – Weston)

Election to the House of Commons

First elected: 2015
Re-elected: 2019, 2021, 2025

Professional background

Studies: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History from York University, law degree from the University of Ottawa and is a licensed member of the Ontario Bar.
Law: Practiced law, specializing in immigration and criminal law.
Community engagement: Active in civil society, having served on the board of the Global Enrichment Foundation, which empowers women in East Africa by facilitating access to post-secondary education. Also served on the board of Journalists for Human Rights.

Offices and roles as a parliamentarian

Minister of International Development (2023–2025)
Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion (2021–2023)
Minister of Families, Children and Social Development (2019–2021)
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (2017–2019)

Global Affairs Canada-relevant committee memberships

Chair: Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2025 – Present)

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Private Member’s Motion M-14: Canada’s International Development Assistance

Introduced Private Member’s Motion M-14 on September 15, 2025, proposing to integrate economic considerations into Canada’s international assistance programs. The motion seeks to include opportunities for Canadian businesses and workers within aid initiatives, aligning poverty reduction abroad with economic benefits at home.
Key elements include establishing a dedicated funding stream to support economic partnerships in sectors like clean energy, agriculture, digital technology, and education, and requiring the Minister of International Development to report annually to Parliament on Canadian involvement, partner outcomes, and domestic economic benefits.

Middle East: Israel and Gaza

Canada’s humanitarian assistance investments.
Concerns over Israeli parliamentary legislation affecting UNRWA operations. Has advocated for continued support to trusted international partners such as the World Food Programme, UNICEF, and WHO in Gaza.

Afghan refugees

Supports humanitarian funding for flood recovery efforts and Afghan refugees, reinforcing Canada’s commitment to disaster response and refugee assistance in South Asia.

Haiti

Outlined Government support for Haitian-led solutions to the political crisis during a FAAE Committee meeting on May 6, 2024, providing an overview of Canada’s humanitarian aid efforts in response to Haiti’s ongoing security and humanitarian challenges.

Michael D. Chong (Vice-Chair)
CPC – Ontario (Wellington – Halton Hills)

Critic

Foreign affairs

Election to the House of Commons

First elected:2004
Re-elected: 2006, 2008, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2025

Professional background

Studies: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Philosophy, Trinity College, University of Toronto.
Private sector experience: Held roles in financial services and technology, including as Analyst at Barclays de Zoete Wedd (1994–1997) and Head of IT at Mackie Research Capital (1997–1999). Served as Assistant to the President at Canadian Tire Financial Services (1992–1994), and later as Senior Advisor at the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (2001–2004).
Civic engagement: Co-founder of the Dominion Institute (now Historica Canada), and member of its Board of Directors since 1997.

Global Affairs Canada-relevant committee memberships

Vice-Chair:
- Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2023 - Present)
- Special Committee on the Canada–People’s Republic of China Relationship (2022 – 2025)
- Special Committee on Afghanistan (2021 – 2022)
Member:
- Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2020 – Present)
- Special Committee on the Canada–People’s Republic of China Relationship (2020 – 2025)

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Arctic sovereignty

Interest in implications of Russian-led undersea cable projects (e.g., Polar Express, Polar Connect) and Canada’s capacity to protect undersea cables from anchor damage or sabotage.
Capabilities of Canada’s naval and diplomatic assets to deter unauthorized Arctic vessel transits.
Suggested that the Government seek diplomatic support and recognition from other maritime nations to bolster Canada’s internal waters claim.

Middle East: Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank

Anti-Semitism in Canada: has advocated for designating Samidoun as a terrorist organization.
Defends Israel’s right to self-defence, noting the absence of credible reports of alleged war crimes.

China: Human rights and foreign interference

He and his family have been the target of online misinformation campaigns assessed to be linked to China, aimed at discrediting and intimidating them.
Concerned about Chinese interference, surveillance activities, and the potential misuse of Canadian university research by the Chinese military, calling for a public inquiry and stronger diplomatic responses.
Highlighted human rights abuses in China, including the treatment of Uyghurs and Tibetans.

Sudan: Sanctions

Questioned enforcement of Canada’s sanctions and underscored GAC’s role in preventing circumvention.

Ukraine/Russia: Sanctions

Submitted inquiries regarding waivers for Russian imports and raised concerns about civilian casualties in the context of Canada’s military support to Ukraine.
Supports the Canada-Ukraine strategic security partnership agreement.

Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe (Vice-Chair)
BQ – Québec (Lac-Saint-Jean)

Critic

Foreign affairs, development and international cooperation
Human rights
Immigration, refugees and citizenship

Election to the House of Commons

First elected: 2019
Re-elected:2021, 2025

Professional background

Studies: Studied Art and Media Technology at Cégep de Jonquière.
Cultural Sector: Worked for 20 years as a sound technician and pole vaulter on film sets in Montreal (2000-2020).
Forestry Industry: Employed as a day labourer at Resolute Forest Products in Alma, Quebec (2018-2019).
Political Involvement: Served as President of the Bloc Québécois Lac-Saint-Jean riding association (2017-2019).
Son of former Bloc Leader Gilles Duceppe.

Global Affairs Canada-relevant committee memberships

Vice-Chair:
- Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2025 - Present)
- Subcommittee on International Human Rights of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2020 - 2025)
- Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (2021 - Present)
- Special Committee on Afghanistan (2021 – 2025); Standing Committee on National Defence (2020 – 2021)

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Haiti

Raised concerns about links between Haitian gangs on Canadian soil, including money laundering and arms trafficking, and has raised the impact of U.S. immigration decisions on Haitian migration patterns.

Human Rights and International Advocacy

Has been opposed to the Government’s invitations to leaders with controversial human rights records, including Narendra Modi, Mohammed bin Salman, and Mohammed bin Zayed, at the 2025 G7 Summit, emphasizing the need to align Canada’s diplomatic engagements with its human rights values.
Supports democracy and human rights in Hong Kong as Patron of Hong Kong Watch Canada, supporting vulnerable populations.
Introduced a motion recognizing Tibetans as a people with the right to self-determination, unanimously adopted by the House of Commons on June 10, 2024.

Afghanistan

Supported bringing Afghan refugees to Canada, citing examples from Kosovo and Syria.

Ziad Aboultaif
CPC – Alberta (Edmonton - Manning)

Election to the House of Commons

First elected: 2015
Re-elected: 2019, 2021, 2025

Professional background

Business owner: Where andowned and co-managed Axxess Furniture Inc., an Edmonton-based furniture distribution business, for 12 years.

Notable political roles

Critic: International Development (2017–2019)

Global Affairs Canada-relevant committee memberships

Member:
- Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2017 – Present)
- Subcommittee on International Human Rights (2022 – 2023)
- Standing Committee on International Trade (2020 – 2021)
- Standing Committee on Government Operations and Estimates (2020)

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Arctic sovereignty

Concerns about potential confrontations with unauthorized foreign vessels in Canadian Arctic waters and Canada’s defence preparedness, particularly through NORAD and NATO.

Russian incursions and NATO response

Views Russia’s tactics as deliberate provocations aimed at distracting NATO.

Haiti

Concerns regarding beneficiaries of Haiti’s gang crisis and inquired about possible political motivations behind gang networks and potential foreign state support.

Export of LNG and energy infrastructure

Critical of the government with respect its support to the energy sector; favours a west-east pipeline to expand Alberta’s oil and gas access to key markets.

Canada’s approach to Africa

Highlighted challenges across Africa, including rising costs, food insecurity, and ongoing conflicts, and emphasized the importance of maintaining Canada’s market share amid growing influence from China and Russia during May 2024 FAAE meetings.

Canadian diplomacy

Raised concerns about declining foreign investment in Canada during a February 12, 2024, FAAE meeting and emphasized the role of diplomacy in attracting and sustaining international investment.

Lianne Rood
CPC – Ontario (Middlesex – London)

Critic

International development and federal economic development for Sourthern Ontario

Election to the House of Commons

First elected: 2019
Re-elected: 2021, 2025

Professional background

Studies: Honours Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Sociology from the University of Windsor.
Career: Assistant to former Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture and the Canadian Wheat Board, David Anderson. Later served as a Special Assistant to Gerry Ritz, former Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
Community Engagement: Maintains a strong local presence in her riding through regular attendance at community events such as hockey game puck drops, Diwali celebrations, and the Strathroy Santa Claus Parade.

Global Affairs Canada-relevant committee memberships

Member: Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2025 – Present)

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Arctic sovereignty

Interest in Canada’s coordinated sanctions efforts with likeminded countries to address Russian-Chinese strategic alignment in the Arctic.

Russian incursions and NATO response

Inquired about Canada’s defence readiness and potential capability gaps exposed by recent Russian incursions into Polish and Romanian airspace in 2025.

International trade

Advocated for removing internal trade barriers within Canada, framing reforms as essential to improving competitiveness for Canadian farmers and producers, in alignment with former CPC Leader Pierre Poilievre’s 2025 economic plan.
Participated in a November 2024 NASCO meeting on North American competitiveness, emphasizing the importance of Canada–U.S.–Mexico trade relations and supporting efforts to strengthen supply chains.

Shelby Kramp-Neuman
CPC – Ontario (Hastings – Lennox and Addington – Tyendinaga)

Critic

Canada - US Trade

Election to the House of Commons

First elected: 2021
Re-elected: 2025

Professional background

Studies: Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Political Science from the University of Ottawa.
Political and government experience: Served as the parliamentary assistant to the late Jim Prentice and was also a staff member for Senator Consiglio Di Nino. She also worked for Global Affairs Canada as a representative in Seattle, Washington.
Educational and teaching career: Nearly six years of teaching experience with the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board and Loyalist College.
Municipal leadership: Served four years as Deputy Mayor on the Centre Hastings Municipal Council.

Global Affairs Canada-relevant committee memberships

Member: Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2025 – Present).

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Arctic sovereignty

Concerns about Russian and Chinese military activities in the Arctic and their strategic partnership.

Russian incursions and NATO response

Explored Canada’s counter-drone capabilities and Canadian Armed Forces’ readiness.
Questioned how Canada balances deterrence efforts without escalating tensions.

Haiti

Raised concerns about CAF deployment capabilities and aid delivery in gang-controlled areas.
Interest in Canada’s long-term plan for supporting governance, justice, and democratic development.

Trade and tariff policy

Expressed concern during Question Period on September 17, 2025, over the government’s handling of Canada–U.S. trade negotiations, particularly tariffs and export performance, contrasting Canada’s export decline with Mexico’s growth.
Advocated renegotiating the Canada–U.S.–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) to reduce trade tensions and foster stability for Canadian workers and businesses.

Defense, NATO, and NORAD

Supports Canadian leadership in international defense alliances, including NATO and NORAD.
Active member of Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association and the Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association.

Arctic sovereignty

Raised concerns about the operational capacity of the Canadian Armed Forces in the Arctic, emphasizing the strategic importance of Arctic sovereignty.

Canada–Ukraine relations and humanitarian response

Emphasized the need to prioritize the health and well-being of women and children affected by the conflict, including targeted international assistance.

Bill Blair
LPC – Ontario (Scarborough Southwest)

Election to the House of Commons

First elected:2015
Re-elected: 2019, 2021, 2025

Professional background

Studies: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology from York University; Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from Queen’s University.
Law Enforcement: Served over 30 years in the Toronto Police Service, including roles as Chief of Police.

Offices and roles as a parliamentarian

Minister of National Defence (2023 – 2025)
President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada (2022 – 2023)
Minister of Emergency Preparedness (2021 – 2023)
President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada (2021 – 2022)
Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (2019 – 2021)
Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction (2018 – 2019)
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada (2015 - 2018)

Global Affairs Canada-relevant committee memberships

Chair: Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2025 – Present)

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Arctic sovereignty

Supports investments towards the Canadian Rangers Program in the Arctic and incorporating Indigenous knowledge into northern military operations like Operation Nanook.

Russian incursions and NATO response

Inquired about NATO cohesion in response to Russian incursions into Polish and Romanian airspace and the strengthening of collective defence.

Haiti

Canada’s coordination with Haitian and international partners through multilateral channels.
Reforms to MSSM funding and Canada’s support for democratic institutions and elections.

Arctic sovereignty and international relations

Supports the strategic importance of the Arctic and Canada’s $40 billion investment in NORAD modernization, including over-the-horizon radar, infrastructure upgrades, and early warning systems.

Mona Fortier
LPC – Ontario (Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester)

Election to the House of Commons

First elected:2015
Re-elected: 2019, 2021, 2025

Professional background

Studies: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology and Masters in Business Administration from the University of Ottawa
Communications/Marketing: Senior Director, Communications and Market Development, La Cité College (2011 – 2015); Principal, Executive Director at Equinox Inc. (2005 - 2008)
Community Involvement: Board Member, Montfort Hospital; Member, Provincial Advisory Committee on Francophone Affairs (Ontario); Board Member, Shaw Centre
Awards: Recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012) for community leadership

Offices and roles as a parliamentarian

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (2025 – Present)
Chief government whip (2024 – 2025)
Deputy government whip (2024)
President of the Treasury Board (2021 – 2023)
Minister of Middle Class Prosperity (2019 – 2021)
Associate Minister of Finance (2019 – 2021)

Global Affairs Canada-relevant committee memberships

Member:
- Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2025 – Present)
- Standing Committee on International Trade (2023 – 2025)

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Consular services

Engages with Parliamentarians and facilitates briefings to enhance their understanding of consular services provided by GAC, helping MPs and Senators effectively respond to constituent concerns and inquiries.

Arctic sovereignty

Infrastructure investments to improve mobility and logistics in the North.
The benefits of integrating Indigenous knowledge into northern infrastructure and defence projects.
Arctic security and NORAD modernization.

Environmental trade policy

Contributed to the Standing Committee on International Trade (CIIT) study on protecting Canadian manufacturing sectors, including electric vehicles, aluminum, and steel, from related Chinese imports.

Robert Oliphant
LPC – Ontario (Don Valley West)

Election to the House of Commons

First elected: 2008
Re-elected: 2011, 2015, 2019, 2021

Professional background

Studies: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Commerce from Victoria College, University of Toronto; Master of Divinity (M. Div.) from the Vancouver School of Theology; Doctor of Ministry (D. Min.) from the Chicago Theological Seminary, University of Chicago.
Religion: Minister at the Quyon United Church (1984 – 1986); Associate Minister at the Timothy Eaton Memorial Church (1984 – 1986); Interim Senior Minister at the Bloor Street United Church (1991 – 1993); Minister at the Whitehorse United Church (1991 – 1993); Minister at the Eglinton St. George's United Church (1999 – 2008).
Management: President and CEO at the Asthma Society of Canada (2011 – 2015).

Political and parliamentary roles

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (2019 - Present)

Committee membership

Member: Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2019 – Present); Special Committee on the Canada–People’s Republic of China Relationship (2022 – Present)
Former Chair: Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (2017 – 2019); Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (2016 – 2017)
Former Vice-Chair:Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2009 – 2010)

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Arctic sovereignty

Examined the interrelationship between sovereignty, economic development, and environmental protection and sustainability in Arctic foreign policy.

Russian incursions and NATO response

Concerned about the broader implications of Russian drone incursions, interest in diplomatic engagement with non-NATO countries to pressure Russia.

Haiti and Dominican Republic

Inquired about Canada’s role in protecting aid workers in Haiti and collaboration with the Dominican Republic on border security.

Middle East: Gaza and UNRWA

Advocated for UNRWA as the most effective organization for delivering aid and essential services to Palestinian refugees during the October 2024 emergency debate on Lebanon and Israel.

Anita Vandenbeld
LPC – Ontario (Ottawa West – Nepean)

Election to the House of Commons

First elected: 2015
Re-elected: 2019, 2021, 2025

Professional background

Studies: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History and Political Science from the University of Calgary, and M.A. in Political and Constitutional History from York University.
Work in international development: for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the National Democratic Institute in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
Recognition: In 2008, she was awarded the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal in recognition of her work in Kosovo.

Offices and roles as a parliamentarian

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development (2021–2025); Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence (2019–2021)

Global Affairs Canada-relevant committee memberships

Member:
- Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2017-2019; 2025 – Present)
- Subcommittee on International Human Rights of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2020-2025)
Chair:
- Subcommittee on International Human Rights of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2018-2019)

Areas of interest to Global Affairs Canada

Arctic Sovereignty

Interest in the role of the Canadian Coast Guard and the Canadian Rangers in Arctic security, and how their utilization could be enhanced.
Concerns about the impact that climate change and oceanic patterns have on Canada’s national security interests in the Arctic.
Emphasized Canada’s leadership in incorporating Indigenous knowledge in Arctic multilateral forums and cooperation with Nordic countries.

Middle East – Israel-Gaza Conflict

Has raised the critical importance of humanitarian access for civilians in Gaza and UNRWA’s role in delivering aid and essential services to Gaza and the West Bank.

Women’s Rights

Highlighted barriers and violence faced by women during conflicts and displacement, raising these issues in SDIR Committee meetings on June 4 and October 22, 2024.

Auditor General of Canada Report 4 to the Parliament of Canada: International Assistance in Support of Gender Equality—Global Affairs Canada 2023

We appreciate the important work that was done by the Office of the Auditor General and continue to take the report’s findings seriously.
Global Affairs Canada accepted all recommendations and has implemented the majority of them, reflecting our commitment to transparency, accountability, and impact.
Remaining actions are underway and integrated into our broader efforts to modernize international assistance and deliver lasting results.

Supplementary messages

We have strengthened our gender-based analysis with a deeper focus on intersectionality to better reflect diverse global realities.
Our approach ensures that international assistance is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all people.
We are modernizing our systems to be more transparent, accountable, and results driven.
Our goal is to deliver measurable, lasting outcomes for those who need it most, including women and girls.

Background

The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) tabled the Report on International Assistance in Support of Gender Equality – Global Affairs Canada on 27 March 2023. The report examined whether Global Affairs Canada’s (GAC) implemented Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP) by funding projects that supported gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in low- and middle-income countries and demonstrated that these projects were generating the expected outcomes. It concluded that, at that time, the department was unable to show how bilateral development assistance improved outcomes for women and girls. Three recommendations were made by the OAG, notably that GAC should improve its information management practices; focus reporting and decision-making on outcomes; and strengthen gender-based analysis beyond age. GAC agreed with the recommendations and put into place a Management Response and Action Plan (MRAP). The plan includes the review of current approaches, strengthening corporate tools, updating governance mechanisms, and finding options to better report and make evidence-based decisions grounded on the results of Canada’s international assistance programming.

GAC has made significant progress in responding to the OAG recommendations. Longer-term solutions, driven by the Grants and Contributions Transformation Initiative (GCTI) that will fulfill recommendations, involve building new integrated management system that includes results-based components and staff training, and this work is well underway.

The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (PACP) tabled a report on the OAG’s FIAP Audit on 9 November 2023. The report included three recommendations similar to those from the OAG. It requested that the department provide progress updates on seven items linked to the OAG recommendations, through five separate progress reports: information management and training, reporting and decision-making, information on GCTI, gender-based analysis, and GCTI’s integrated management system and associated training. These five reports have been completed.

Technical Note: OAG FIAP audit

Global Affairs Canada (GAC) response to Auditor General recommendations

GAC accepted all recommendations and is implementing the Management Response Action Plan. Most commitments are fully met.
Remaining actions are progressing and integrated into the broader Grants and Contributions Transformation Initiative.

Recommendation 1: Information management and training

GAC launched a centralized Project Documents Database, improving accessibility and compliance — availability of documentation increasing from 65% in January 2024 to 89% in May 2025.
A comprehensive training review was completed in early 2024, resulting in an updated learning roadmap and onboarding tools for staff and executives.
The department is advancing toward full implementation of the new grants and contributions system, Impleo, with a basic model rollout planned for 2026. A training plan aligned with system deployment is also underway.

Recommendation 2: Outcome-based reporting and decision-making

GAC fulfilled its commitment by presenting options to the Deputy Minister of International Development, approved in February 2024.
Implementation is ongoing, including web-based tools, performance dashboards, and a results-based management system within Impleo. Foundational work is complete, with a core model release planned for 2027.

Recommendation 3: Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA Plus)

This recommendation is fully implemented. The gender equality assessment form and guidance now explicitly address diversity and intersecting identity factors.
Awareness sessions and updated training have embedded these changes into ongoing programming.

Background

Most of GAC’s responses identified in the MRAP are fully met. Work is underway for longer-term solutions that will fulfill the remaining recommendations, driven by the Grants and Contributions Transformation Initiative (GCTI), that will involve an integrated management system with results-based components and staff training.

The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (PACP) tabled a report on the OAG’s FIAP Audit on 9 November 2023. The report included three recommendations similar to those from the OAG. It requested that the department provide progress updates on seven items linked to the OAG recommendations, through five separate progress reports: information management and training, reporting and decision-making, information on GCTI, gender-based analysis and GCTI’s integrated management system and training. GAC has completed the five reports.

Motion M-14: International development assistance

The proposed motion aligns with the Government’s ongoing work to enhance the accountability, effectiveness, and mutual benefits (for both developing countries, and for Canadian businesses) of Canada’s international development assistance.
The Government recognizes the value of ensuring international development assistance supports Canada’s economic and security priorities, while delivering sustainable development impact and poverty reduction.

Supplementary messages

The Government values approaches to international development assistance that create opportunities for sustainable economic growth.
The Government would have to further examine the specifics of the proposed Economic Partnerships Window. At a general level, this proposal is consistent with the Government’s broad direction, and with a trend afoot in other donor countries, towards ensuring that international development assistance not only supports global poverty reduction but also creates economic benefits for domestic economies (businesses and workers), and the conditions for trade.
The motion received broad support and was amended to include equitable funding access for smaller non-profit organizations. The department supports a diverse range of organizations from across Canada and from around the world.

Background

On September 15, 2025, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen (York South—Weston Etobicoke) put Private Member’s Motion M-14 on the Notice Paper. The motion calls on the Government to enhance the accountability, effectiveness, and mutual benefits of Canada’s international development assistance. The motion proposes three key measures:

Implementing new policies to ensure that Canadian international development assistance programming integrates opportunities for reciprocal economic benefit, including through the participation of Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises, innovators, and workers.
Establishing a dedicated Economic Partnerships Window to support projects that align poverty reduction abroad with economic security at home, and that utilize Canadian economic strengths such as clean energy, agriculture, digital technology, and education.
Requiring the Minister for International Development to report to Parliament annually on the extent of Canadian participation in international development assistance projects, the measurable benefits for partner countries, and the economic opportunities created for Canadians.

The main difference is MP Hussen’s proposed Economic Partnerships Window, which goes beyond what is envisioned in your mandate letter response and could require further reallocation of resources or programming authorities (possible, but specifics not yet examined). However, the motion is reflective of a broader movement afoot, in Canada and amongst other donor countries, towards ensuring that international development assistance not only supports global poverty reduction but also creates economic benefits for domestic economies (businesses and workers), and the conditions for trade.

On October 22, 2025, during Second Reading of Motion M-14, the Liberal Party of Canada, Conservative Party of Canada, and Bloc Québécois all expressed support for the motion. The Bloc Québécois proposed an amendment to ensure that small non-profit organizations (NPOs) and international cooperation centres located outside major centres can obtain the same opportunities for federal funding as larger organizations, which was adopted with MP Hussen’s consent. During debate, the Liberal Party highlighted accountability and mutual benefit, the Conservative Party emphasized fiscal scrutiny and the objective of advancing poverty reduction abroad while supporting Canadian jobs and innovation, while the Bloc cautioned against prioritizing domestic gains over development outcomes. Overall, the motion reflects broad cross-party support for strengthening the accountability and mutual benefits of Canada’s international development assistance.

Date modified:: 2026-02-02

Appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE)

Table of contents

Portfolio overview

MINE’s mandate and role compared to MINA’s

Issue

Responsive lines

Who makes the key decisions regarding the Government’s international development programs and funding?

Given the broad responsibilities of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, why was it necessary to appoint a dedicated Secretary of State to oversee the international development and humanitarian assistance portfolio?

How does the Government ensure accountability and coordination in decisions related to international development assistance?

What measures are in place to guarantee transparency and responsible management of the Government’s international development efforts?

Releasable background

International Assistance Envelope (IAE)

Issue

Responsive lines

What is the Government’s Canada’s position on supporting international development and humanitarian assistance in the context of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review?

How does international assistance align with and protect Canada’s national interests?

How does the Government ensure effective oversight and management of international development funds?

Releasable background

Development portfolio financial overview

Responsive lines

What is the Government’s Canada’s position on supporting international development and humanitarian assistance in the context of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review?

How does the Government ensure effective oversight and management of international development funds?

What types of organizations receive funding to support the delivery of Programs under the Development portfolio?

How is Development portfolio spending distributed by region?

How much is used to support Humanitarian Assistance and Crisis Response?

Releasable background

Geographic distribution of international assistance funding for organizations across Canada

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Table: 2024-2025 fiscal year GAC funding by province

Development landscape

Background

Financing for development

Issue

Responsive lines

Releasable background

Multilateral engagement in international assistance

Issue

Responsive lines

Releasable background

United Nations development system reform

Responsive lines

Releasable background

Changing international development landscape

Issue

Responsive lines

Releasable background

Canada’s international assistance - including impacts of U.S. and other donor aid cuts

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Implications of U.S. foreign aid cuts on global international assistance

Issue

Responsive lines

Responsive: As the U.S. reduces its foreign aid, will Canada step in to fill this void?

Responsive: Is the U.S. the only donor country reducing its aid?

Responsive: Will Canada’s international assistance be cut like the US?

Responsive: If asked about the U.S. denunciation of the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals

Responsive: What will happen to Canadian non-governmental organizations and their programs affected by US cuts?

Releasable Background

Top issues

Canada’s International Assistance Policy

Issue

Responsive lines

Releasable background

Tied aid

Top line messages

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Comprehensive Expenditure Review (CER)

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Canadian organizations (including small and medium organizations) active in international assistance

Issue

Responsive lines

Releasable background

Ensuring effectiveness of development assistance

Background