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Minister of International Development appearance before the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE) – Hot issue notes – Briefing material

2021-04-29

Table of contents

Meeting scenario

Committee membership & interests

Committee work

Since your last appearance, FAAE has held or planned multiple sessions to hear from GAC ministers and officials:

Committee member biographies

Sven Spengemann (LPC—Mississauga-Lakeshore, ON), Chair

GAC-related key interests

Parliamentary roles

Mr. Spengemann has been a member of numerous Parliamentary Associations and Interparliamentary Groups since his election in 2015. He became the Co-Chair of the Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (CAAF) in February 2020. He has been a member of the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (CANA) since 2016, the Canadian Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (UIPU) since 2015, and was a member of the Canada-China Legislative Association (CACN) from November 2016 to March 2017.

Notable committee memberships

Background

Mr. Spengemann complete his law degreed at Osgoode Hall and was called to the Bar of Ontario in June 2000. He pursued graduate degrees at the College of Europe in Belgium and Harvard Law School. Mr. Spengemann’s academic work earned him numerous awards and distinctions, including a Canada-US Fulbright Scholarship.

Mr. Spengemann worked in the Government of Canada’s Privy Council as a Senior Policy Analyst, where he led federal interdepartmental policy processes in the areas of risk management, international cooperation and national security. He also served as a UN official in Baghdad with the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). In Iraq, Mr. Spengemann negotiated operational protocols with the US Coalition Forces to ensure operational, security and medical support for the UN Mission.

Mr. Spengemann is a frequent speaker in the community on international affairs, diplomacy and peacekeeping and has been hosted by the NATO Association to discuss his work with UNAMI and Iraq’s ongoing transition. He continues to work closely at the local level with communities from the Middle East and North Africa, including Iraq, the Iraqi Kurdistan Region, Egypt, Somalia and Syria.

Issues-specific background/statements

On March 9, 2020, Mr. Spengemann asked about the violence in Delhi during Question Period. He noted that at least 50 people lost their lives and hundreds more were injured. Mr. Spengemann stated that one of the elements that caused dissension was the Citizenship Amendment Act that was recently adopted by the Indian government.

On February 6, 2020, Mr. Spengemann rose in the House of Commons to speak about his visit to the

Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. He and Cheryl Hardcastle were scheduled to appear before SDIR on March 24, but the meeting was cancelled.

During the 42nd Parliament, Mr. Spengemann spoke about what the government had done to promote peace, human rights, and democracy internationally. He also spoke about his trip to Senegal and Mali with the House of Commons Standing Committee on National Defence.

Hon. Michael D. Chong, P.C. (CPC—Wellington – Halton Hills, ON), Vice-Chair, Critic for Foreign Affairs

Key interests

Parliamentary roles

Mr. Chong is currently serving as the Official Opposition’s Critic for Foreign Affairs. MP Chong served as the President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada, the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and the Minister for Sport from February to November 2006. He has been a member of the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (CANA), the Canada-China Legislative Association (CACN), the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (CEUS), among others.

Notable committee memberships

Background

Mr. Chong was first elected to Parliament in 2004 and has been Chair of several House of Commons Standing Committees. He is a co-founder and member of the All Party Climate Caucus since it was formed in 2011. In the 42nd Parliament, MP Chong served as the Official Opposition’s Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Shadow Minister for Science. In 2015, Chong’s Reform Act passed Parliament and became law.

Prior to his election, Mr. Chong acted as Chief Information Officer for the National Hockey League Players’ Association and as a Senior Technology Consultant to the Greater Toronto Airports Authority for the redevelopment of Pearson International Airport. MP Chong also co-founded the Dominion Institute, now known as Historica Canada, an organization committed to raising Canadians’ awareness of history and civics. He currently sits on its Board of Governors. Mr. Chong attended Trinity College in the University of Toronto where he obtained a degree in philosophy.

Issue specific background

On October 7, 2020, MP Chong spoke about Iran during Question Period. He asked the Prime Minister when the government would list the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Crops as a terrorist organization.

On September 30, 2020, MP Chong commended the government for re-imposing sanctions on Belarus.

China

On September 30, 2020, MP Chong stated that China was violating human rights and international treaties in its treatment of Michael Spavor, Michael Kovrig, the Uyghurs, and the people of Hong Kong. He asked if the government would impose sanctions on those responsible in China.

On December 10, 2019, MP Chong rose in the House of Commons to speak about Canada’s relationship with China. He stated, “I would say this in response to the economic concerns that have been voiced by many about our relationship with China. More important than economic concerns are the principles and values on which this country is founded, principles such as democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Those are the very principles we risk undermining and doing away with if we continue to focus on the economic consequences of taking a reset and decoupling in our China relationship”. He went on to speak about how China has increasingly used economic blackmail, including attacks on Canadian farmers with regards to pork, beef and canola. MP Chong also raised concerns about Uyghurs in concentration

camps and Beijing’s systemic campaign to wipe out this population in a genocidal manner. Finally, he asked if the government would take a firmer, stronger, and clearer position on Hong Kong.

On January 24, 2021 together with CPC MP Garnett Genuis, he issued a Conservative statement calling on the government to recognize the Uyghur genocide, encourage allies to do the same, and update its travel advisories to reflect the potential threats to Canadians when travelling to China. The Journal de Montréal reported: MM. Chong et Genuis ont indiqué qu’ils ont l’intention d’utiliser «divers outils parlementaires pour que le Parlement reconnaisse ce génocide, et ce, le plus tôt possible».

On March 26, at QP, he raised the secret trials of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor and questioned the government on its participation in the AIIB. On March 27, MP Chong, along with members of SDIR, was specifically targeted by Chinese sanctions to which he responded that he would wear it as a badge of honour. On March 30, he expressed concerns on Twitter that the Chinese were limiting access to the WHO investigating team.

On April 12, he accused the government of threatening to cancel funding for the Halifax Security Forum if it awarded the John McCain Prize to Taiwan’s President and wanted to know whether Canada supports Taiwan’s participation at the WHO’s meeting in May 2021.

Arms Export Controls

On October 6, during an address in reply of the Speech from the Throne, MP Chong noted that the government has been inconsistent in upholding its international obligations under the ATT by permitting arms exports to Saudi Arabia and Turkey. On October 26 at QP, MP Chong asked whether the PM

overrode GAC’s recommendation and approved the export to drone systems to Turkey, saying their diversion to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan is in clear violation to the ATT, the Wassenar Arrangement and Canadian laws. On November 3, 2020, MP Chong continued this line of questioning and enquired whether the PM had agreed to PM Erdogan’s request for the export of drone systems to Turkey.

On March 24 at QP, MP Chong raised the documents provided to the Committee on arms exports to Turkey, coming to the conclusion that “after a bit of pressure was put on the government by the arms export lobby and by Turkish authorities, and after the government was told that these arms exports would be used for the defence of human rights, the government buckled and naively reversed its earlier decision and approved these arms exports to Turkey”.

Stephane Bergeron (BQ—Montarville, QC), Vice-Chair, Critic for Foreign Affairs

GAC-related key interests

Parliamentary roles

Mr. Bergeron is currently the Bloc Québécois’ (BQ) Critic for Foreign Affairs. He is a member of numerous parliamentary associations and interparliamentary groups, particularly the Canada-China Legislative Association (CACN) and the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (CANA). He also served as the Whip for the BQ from 1997 to 2001.

Notable committee membership

Background

Mr. Bergeron served as a BQ member of the House of Commons from 1993 to 2005 and a member of Quebec’s National Assembly from 2005 to 2018. In 2019, he returned to the House of Commons as a BQ member. Mr. Bergeron has bachelors and master’s degrees in Political Science. After first leaving the House of Commons and serving in Quebec’s National Assembly for 13 years, he was Registrar of Rimouski’s CEGEP. He was previously a political advisor and a teaching assistant at Université Laval within the Political Science department. From 1984 to 1993 he served in the Canadian Forces as a naval Cadet Instructor Cadre officer.

Issues-specific background/statements

The majority of Mr. Bergeron’s statements have been regarding China, including the eight-month vacancy of the Ambassador position and the effect on the bilateral relationship.

He has raised human rights in Question Period, asking “What will it take for the government to take action and finally get Raif Badawi released?” Then following up his question by stating, “it is scandalous that Raif Badawi is languishing in prison after seven years without having committed any crime. If the government can sit down with Saudi Arabia at the G20 , if it can sit down with Saudi Arabia to do business and sell the country weapons, then it can certainly sit down with Saudi Arabia to demand the release of Raif Badawi.” On social media, he advocated for the Government to repatriate Canadian children in Syrian refugee camps, denounced privatization and social injustices in Chile, criticized Canada’s lack of action regarding Israel’s annexation plan.

Upon the announce that Canada is lifting its ban on export of military goods to Saudi Arabia, MP Bergeron tweeted: Aurait-on profité de la crise (COVID-19) pour aller de l’avant en catimini avec cette décision controversée, en espérant qu’elle passe sous le radar?

On COVID-19, on social media, MP Bergeron criticized the government for not closing its borders with the US. He also commented on repatriation of Canadians saying that Minister Champagne needed to keep his promise to offer consular and financial support to Canadians abroad. BQ leader Yves-François Blanchet also expressed early on his concerns about the Canada-US border staying open, insisting that all non-essential entries should be prohibited. On the repatriation of Canadians, he stressed that no Canadian should be left alone. He criticized the government in light of closures of consulates and missions. He asked his caucus members to help in any way possible with repatriation efforts of Quebecers. On April 9 though, he thanked GAC and consular officials for having done a Titans’ job. On vaccination, on March he commented an article from the Journal de Québec titled Le vaccin comme baïonette : Par sa «diplomatie des vaccins», la «Chine (cherche à couper) l’herbe sous le pied à ceux qui appellent au boycottage des Jeux de Pékin pour son horrible bilan en matière de droits de la personne, (notamment) des Ouïghours»...

Jack Harris (NDP—St. John’s East, NL), Critic for Foreign Affairs

GAC-related key interests

Parliamentary roles

Mr. Harris is currently the NDP’s Critic for Foreign Affairs, Public Safety, and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. He is also the Deputy Critic for Defence.

Notable committee memberships

Background

Jack Harris is a lawyer and politician from Newfoundland and Labrador. He has represented St John’s East several times: from 1987-1988, from 2008 to 2015, and winning his seat again in 2019. He was the leader of the Newfoundland and Labrador New Democratic Party from 1992 to 2006.

Issues-specific background/statements

On December 10, 2019, Mr. Harris rose in the House of Commons to voice his support for the creation of a special committee on Canada and China relations. He stated, “Madam Speaker, clearly, the relationship would deteriorate. We have seen in the past year or so how quick and easy it is for China, in this case, to take actions that hurt people. We have to move on this and we should move quickly”. On the same day, Mr. Harris also spoke about the importance of Canada engaging in multilateralism as a solution to ongoing tensions between Canada and China. On October 30, 2020, MP Harris called on the Minister to release the details of its investigation on the export of drone systems to Turkey and cease all

exports. On March 13, 2021, MP Harris commented the Globe and Mail article of March 12 : It appears that the Liberal government “decided the relationship with Turkey was more important than arms-

control obligations.” On March 24, following an article relating Chinese cyber espionage of Canadian Uyghurs on Facebook, he tweeted: It's not acceptable for this kind of surveillance to happen in Canada. The Liberal gov has an obligation to require Facebook and other social media giants to make sure they aren’t being used as a tool for authoritarian governments. #NDP #StandwithUyghurs

Robert Oliphant (LPC—Don Valley West, On), Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs

GAC-related key interests

Parliamentary roles

Rob Oliphant was made the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs in May 2019 and retained this role in the 43rd Parliament.

He is actively involved in parliamentary associations. In particular, he has been a member of the Canada- China Legislative Association since December 2015.

Notable committee memberships

Background

Mr. Oliphant was first elected to the House of Commons in October 2008. He was defeated in the 2011 federal election but was re-elected in 2015 and 2019.

Mr. Oliphant graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Toronto in 1978. During his time at U of T, he was active in the University of Toronto Liberal Club, as well as the Ontario (New) Young Liberals. After obtaining a Master of Divinity from the Vancouver School of Theology, he was ordained as a United Church Minister in 1984. His official title is The Reverend Doctor Robert Oliphant, MP.

Mr. Oliphant worked in Premier David Peterson’s office in 1989. He later worked for two provincial ministers, Christine Hart, Minister of Culture and Communications, and Mavis Wilson, Minister Responsible for Women’s issues.

Issues-specific background/statements

Mr. Oliphant frequently defends Canada’s foreign policy model, stating it “is based on renewing a rules- based international order that Canadians have built together, protecting universal human rights, supporting democracies,” and noting, “We are a leader in the world on critical issues, whether it is in Venezuela, or in the Middle East or in China, all around the world. We will continue to stand with our allies, with NATO partners, as we continue to ensure Canada's leadership is strong and heard in our world with allies and like-minded who work with us.”

Mr. Oliphant raises Canadian consular services abroad in a number of contexts, including committee, social media, and House debate. He has stated a number of times that the return of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor are the top priority of the Government.

Peter Fonseca (LPC—Mississauga East – Cooksville, ON)

GAC-related key interests

Parliamentary roles

Peter Fonseca was a member of the Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CCOM) from December 2018 to March 2019. He was also a member of the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (CANA) from September 2018 to March 2019, and the Canada-China Legislative Association (CACN) from December 2016 to March 2017.

Notable committee memberships

Background

Mr. Fonseca was first elected to the House of Commons in 2015. Prior to entering federal politics, he was a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and served in Premier McGuinty’s cabinet.

Mr. Fonseca was born in Lisbon, Portugal and immigrated to Toronto with his family in 1968. He graduated from St. Michael's College School and attended the University of Oregon, gaining a Bachelor of Arts on an athletic scholarship. He also holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Windsor. He worked as a senior performance management consultant for the Coach Corporation, and has run an importing and distributing company in Portugal.

Issues-specific background/statements

MP Fonseca has spoken about China at various parliamentary committees including the Subcommittee on International Human Rights. As a previous member of CIIT, Mr. Fonseca focused his commentary on GAC-related files on international trade during House debate and committee. Most recently, he rose in the House to speak on the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement Implementation Act.

Hon. Hedy Fry (LPC—Vancouver Centre, BC)

GAC-related key interests

Parliamentary roles

Dr. Fry served as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration and the Minister of Human Resources and Skill Development (Internationally Trained Workers Initiative) from July 2004 to November 2005. She also served as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration from December 2003 to June 2004. Fry has been a member of many Parliamentary Committees, Associations, and Interparliamentary Groups since 2002. She currently serves as head of Canada’s delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly (OSCEPA), and is the OSCEPA’s Special Representative for Gender Issues. She also Chairs the Canadian Association of Parliamentarians for Population Development.

Notable committee memberships

Background

Ms. Fry is a Trinidadian-Canadian politician and physician. She completed her medical training at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. She is currently the longest-serving female Member of Parliament, winning nine consecutive elections in the constituency of Vancouver Centre. Ms. Fry worked at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver for 23 years. She served as president of the British Columbia Federation of Medical Women in 1977. She was president of the Vancouver Medical Association in 1988 to 1989, the BC Medical Association in 1990-1991, and chaired the Canadian Medical Association's Multiculturalism Committee in 1992-9.

Issues-specific background/statements

In January of this year, Ms. Fry spoke about the Canada-United States Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).

Ms. Fry rose in the House to speak on female genital mutilation (FGM), noting, “In 1997 the Liberal government criminalized FGM in Canada. Now we are engaging with other nations, donors, UN organizations and civil society to take action to eliminate FGM globally… More needs to be done. Ending

FGM requires governments to act with legislation to protect the human rights of women and girls, with policies that empower them and, most importantly, in this year of Beijing+25, to remember that women's rights are human rights.”

In 2017, Ms. Fry rose in the House to speak on refugee and migrant women and girls worldwide, “Of the 65 million people displaced by conflict, 55% are women and children. Displaced women and girls often experience rape, forced marriages, and sexual slavery… As we laud our own progress, let us remember that women's rights are human rights, and we cannot celebrate fully until all women enjoy those rights.”

Ruby Sahota (LPC—Brampton North, ON)

GAC-related key interests

Parliamentary roles

Since becoming an MP in 2015, Ms. Sahota has been a member of numerous Parliamentary Associations and Interparliamentary Groups. She was involved with the Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CCOM) from January 2016 to February 2018, the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association from September 2018 to March 2019, the Canada-United States Inter- Parliamentary Group (CEUS) from January 2016 to April 2018, and the Canada-China Legislative Association (CACN) from December 2015 to 2016.

Notable committee memberships

Background

Before entering politics, Ms. Sahota worked as a lawyer, practicing for five years in the areas of criminal law, civil litigation, and dispute resolution in both the public and private sectors. She holds a combined Honours Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Peace Studies from McMaster University and a J.D. with a concentration in Litigation from Thomas M. Cooley Law School.

Issues-specific background/statements

Ms. Sahota rose in the House of Commons on the 10-year anniversary of the end of the war in Sri Lanka, asking the Minister of Foreign Affairs how the government is holding those responsible for the atrocities to account.

Ms. Sahota is a proponent of the improvements made to the Canadian immigration system under the Liberal government, “we have an effective immigration system that Canadians and those wishing to become Canadians and members of our society can rely on.”

Ms. Sahota has spoken out about racism in the House, noting that the “Sikh community has been a victim to racism, discrimination, and violence.”

Ya’ara Saks (LPC—York Centre, ON)

GAC-related key interests

Parliamentary roles

Ms. Saks was elected in a by-election on October 26, 2020.

Notable committee memberships

Background

Prior to her election, Ms. Saks was a local small business owner and long time community advocate. She also held advisory roles for policy, communications and project management in Canada and Israel.

She is an advocate for better access to mental health services and is the Director of Trauma Practice for Health Communities, a local charitable organization.

Ms. Saks holds an undergraduate degree from McGill University in Political Science and Middle East Studies, and a Master’s Degree from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in International Relations and Diplomacy.

Issues-specific background/statements

Ms. Saks has asked one question in the House of Commons on the rise of anti-semitism.

Garnett Genuis (CPC—Sherwood Park-Fort Saskatchewan, AB), Critic for International Development and Human Rights

Parliamentary roles

Key Interests

Garnett Genuis is currently the Conservative Critic for International Development and Human Rights. He previously served as the Conservative Critic for Canada-China Relations and Multiculturalism. He was a member of the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (CANA) from September 2018 to March 2019 and a member of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (CEUS) from February to March 2017. In September 2017 he triggered an emergency debate in the House of Commons concerning the plight of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, and he has presented a private member’s bill and numerous petitions over the past two parliaments to draw attention to the combat against trafficking in human organs.

Notable committee membership

Mr. Genuis was elected in 2015 and 2019. He grew up in Strathcona County and got involved in his community through volunteering with various organizations, including a local care centre. At age 15, he began writing a column for Sherwood Park News for which he continues to be a regular contributor as an MP.

Mr. Genuis holds a Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management from Carleton University and Master’s of Science in Philosophy and Public Policy from the London School of Economics. Prior to his election, he worked in the Prime Minister’s Office.

Issues-specific background/statements

Mr. Genuis often rises in the House of Commons to speak about a variety of foreign affairs-related issues. In the 43rd Parliament he has asked the government about Iran, Sri Lanka, Canada-China relations, and Taiwan during Question Period. He also sparked an emergency debate in the House of Commons concerning the genocide of Rohingya Muslims in Burma and has presented a private member’s bill to combat trafficking in human organs.

During a briefing on International Development by departmental officials on October 15th, 2020, MP Genuis asked for details related to the Canadian Centre for Peace, Order and Good Governance as outlined in the mandate letter for Minister Gould and Minister Champagne.

On Nov. 26, 2020, he introduced a motion (M-55) to combat foreign state interference in Canada.

On January 24, together with Foreign Affairs Critic Chong, he issued a Conservative statement calling on the government to recognize the Uyghur genocide, encourage allies to do the same, and update its travel advisories to reflect the potential threats to Canadians when travelling to China. The Journal de Montréal reported: MM. Chong et Genuis ont indiqué qu’ils ont l’intention d’utiliser «divers outils parlementaires pour que le Parlement reconnaisse ce génocide, et ce, le plus tôt possible».

Kerry Diotte (CPC – Edmonton Griesbach, AB)

GAC-related key interests

Parliamentary roles

Mr. Diotte has been the Vice-Chair of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (CEUS) since February 2019. He is also a member of numerous parliamentary associations and interparliamentary groups including the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (CANA), the Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (CPAM), and the Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CCOM). He previously served as the Conservative Party of Canada’s deputy critic for National Revenue and Public Services and Procurement.

Notable committee memberships

Background

Kerry Diotte worked as a journalist and then an Edmonton City councillor before becoming a federal MP in 2015. his seat in the 2015 general election. Born in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario and educated at Ottawa’s Carleton University, Mr. Diotte enjoyed a long and successful career as a journalist, working in radio, TV, magazines and newspapers. Mr. Diotte has taught journalism, authored a book about Edmonton’s history and was a national director of the Canadian Association of Journalists.

Issues-specific background/statements

On January 29, 2020, Mr. Diotte rose to commemorate the victims of Flight PS752 and stated, “Iranian authorities must be transparent and fully co-operate with independent agencies investigating this horrific event. Families also deserve that the remains of their loved ones are allowed to be repatriated to Canada as soon as possible. Anything less is completely unacceptable. These loved ones have suffered enough”.

Martin B. Morantz (CPC—Charleswood—St. James—Assiniboia—Headingley, MB)

Parliamentary roles

Key Interests

Martin Morantz was first elected in October 2019. He served as the National Revenue Critic from March to August 2020. Shortly after his election he joined the Canada-Europe and Canadian NATO Parliamentary Associations, the Canada-Israel and Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Groups, the Canada-United Kingdom Inter-Parliamentary Association and the Canadian Delegation to the OSCE (December 2019-March 2020). He is part of the multipartite Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism announced in September 2020.

Notable committee membership

Background

Mr. Morantz holds a BA in political studies from the University of Manitoba and a law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School. Prior to his election to Parliament he served as City Councillor on the Winnipeg City Council (2014-2018) where he chaired the Finance and Infrastructure Committee. Prior to his tenure as City Councillor, Mr. Morantz was a lawyer for 23 years in a Winnipeg law firm. He also presided Jernat Investment Ltd., a property investment and financial services firm. He also served on the boards of many community groups focusing on autism advocacy and research, assisted living and numerous groups in the Jewish community. MP Morantz is married and they have one son.

Issues-specific background/statements

On October 8, 2020 MP Morantz rose in the House of Commons and presented a petition regarding the persecution of the Uyghurs. He stated, “The petition says in part that it is clear that the UN conventions around the prevention and punishment of the crime of genocide have been breached. Canada cannot remain silent in the face of this ongoing atrocity. The petition formally requests we recognize that Uighurs in China have been, and are being, subject to genocide and to use the Magnitsky Act in this

case”. On social media, he criticized the Government’s vote at the U.N. on the right of Palestinians to self-determination. On November 4, 2020, MP Morantz rose in the House at QP to ask the PM whether he approved the export of drones to Turkey. On January 27, 2021, during QP, he declared that Canada’s funding to UNRWA is being used to fund UNRWA's indoctrination of children by inciting violence toward Jews. He further asked the government to suspend it funding stating that classroom materials

distributed to Palestinian students encourage them to “defend the motherland with blood”, portray child-murdering terrorists as heroes and call Israel the enemy.

Increasing Canada’s international development assistance every year towards 2030

Supplementary message

Update

Since your last appearance, Budget 2021 has announced $1 billion in new and renewed funding for the IAE. As well as the acceleration of payments to the African Development Bank.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Feminist International Assistance Policy

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

Global education

Supplementary messages

Update

Since the onset of the COVID pandemic, Canada has allocated a total of $78.9M in new funding to ensure access to education and learning, including for refugee and forcibly-displaced children and youth: $7.5M (June 2020); $21.4M (November 2020) and $50M (February 2021). This funding supports a range civil society and multilateral partners and national governments.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Most countries temporarily closed education institutions to help contain the spread of COVID-19. At its peak, school closures impacted over 90% of the world’s registered learners. Nearly 200 million children and youth are living in countries facing humanitarian crisis, such as in refugee camps where girls are half as likely as boys to enroll in secondary education. Canada’s COVID response includes $12.5M to Education Cannot Wait (ECW) and $35M to the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), both of which provide programming for refugee and IDP children and youth. Canada’s current contribution to the GPE is $150M over three years (2018 to 2021).

Canada’s innovative finance programs

Supplementary messages

Update

On Oct 10, 2020, the Globe and Mail published an article criticizing Canada’s Innovative Finance Programs for having accomplished too little since their announcement in Budget 2018. On Aug 21, 2020, a similar critique of the IAIP was published in the Hill Times by Engineers Without Borders, an organization also featured in the October Globe article.

Background

Increasing effectiveness and transparency

Supplementary messages

Update

The Department’s response to the pandemic includes securing additional funding through the crisis pool, providing greater flexibility to partners to repurpose existing projects, developing lighter approval processes for COVID-19-related projects, providing targeted responses to more vulnerable groups such as women, and strengthening engagement with partners.

Regular outreach sessions with Canadian partners took place to explore how best to facilitate programming activities in the field. This collaboration has resulted in a series of flexible measures to help Canadian organizations implement programming during the pandemic. For example, recognizing the financial challenges caused by COVID- 19, GAC has reduced the requirement to withhold 5% of the projects’ value for holdback purposes, further supporting our partners during this unprecedented time.

Supporting facts and figures

The gender equality focus behind Canada’s international assistance investments

Supplementary messages

Update

Canada has made significant progress in implementing the Feminist International Assistance Policy, including through its COVID-19 response, and is on track to achieving its policy targets.

Canada also continues to profile its leadership and advance its gender equality priorities in multilateral fora, including through the OECD-DAC Network on Gender Equality as a bureau member, the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), UN Commission on the Status of Women, and other multilateral platforms and initiatives such as the Generation Equality Forum to mark the 25th Anniversary of the Beijing 4th World Conference on Women.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

The Minister’s 2019 Mandate letter sets out the commitment to maintain the gender equality focus of all of Canada’s international assistance investments to address economic, political and social inequalities that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential. The Feminist International Assistance Policy sets out the target of ensuring that by 2021-2022, no less than 95% of Global Affairs Canada’s bilateral international development assistance investments will either target (15%) or integrate (80%) gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.

Women’s rights and climate change adaptation

Supplementary messages

Update

In the summer of 2020, Global Affairs Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada held public consultations on the future of Canada’s international climate finance. During these consultations, the government heard that it should: strengthen adaptation efforts while investing differently in mitigation; pursue climate action with adaptation and mitigation outcomes that support broader development and economic goals, including COVID recovery; support locally-led solutions to climate change and build community resilience; support gender-responsive climate action across all sectors; and increase grants and change the approach to loans. This input is informing the development of Canada’s future climate finance.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Canada supports women’s rights in climate adaptation through its core programme budget and $2.65 billion climate finance commitment. Funding to projects through multilateral, bilateral and partnership channels support activities that promote:

Reducing the unequal distribution of paid and unpaid care work

Update

Following the adoption of the Mandate Letter Commitment on Paid and Unpaid Care, a departmental strategy outlining the proposed way forward in implementing this commitment was developed and subsequently approved on October 29, 2020. It takes a feminist, human-rights based approach and rests on three mutually-reinforcing pillars: 1) Evidence-gathering: Address knowledge gaps on what works to better recognize, reduce and redistribute care work; 2) Deepen the quality of care-relevant programming: Increase the robustness of department-funded initiatives that integrate dimensions of care work as a cross-cutting issue; 3) Advocacy: Build alliances and movements for change to increase support for this issue globally.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Care work is essential for human well-being and sustainable economic growth, but remains insufficiently recognized and undervalued. Women and girl’s disproportionate responsibility for care work has profound consequences for their participation in employment and in public and political life; yet comprehensive care policies remain limited in most countries – in both high and low-middle income settings alike.

Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy explicitly recognizes the care burden as an issue requiring our attention. This priority on care was reflected in MINE’s mandate letters published in December 2019 and January 2021. The COVID- 19 pandemic has further exposed the care crisis and exacerbated the gender inequality that characterises care work. As a result, many women have been forced to leave the paid workforce - with global labour market participation rates dropping to the lowest level in decades. A concerted global response is required that recognises and seeks to redistribute and ease care responsibilities, to ensure the pandemic does not continue to undermine women’s human rights and well-being and drive them out of the workforce and public space.

Canadian Centre for Peace, Order and Good Government

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

Canada’s international assistance response to COVID-19

Supplementary messages

Update

The COVID-19 Vaccine Access (COVAX) Facility has shipped tens of million COVID- 19 vaccines to well over 100 participants. COVAX aims to provide 2 billion doses to 190 participating economies, including both high income and developing.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Canada is committed to a robust global effort to stop COVID-19 and to address its devastating health, social, economic and security impacts on people around the world.

In line with the Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada’s response includes a particular focus on the world’s poorest and most marginalized, and considers the differentiated needs of women and girls.

In May 2020, Canada joined the ACT-Accelerator, the platform for global cooperation on the development, production, and distribution of safe and effective COVID-19 medical countermeasures. Canada is a leading donor to the ACT-Accelerator.

Minister Gould is a co-chair of the COVAX AMC Engagement Group, the primary advisory body made up of all AMC donors, and other key stakeholders.

Climate finance

Supplementary messages

Update

Budget 2021 announced that Canada intends to build on its ambitious plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Canada with an ambitious commitment to combat climate change and biodiversity loss around the world in the coming months leading up to the international COP conferences. These commitments will particularly help those already being affected by climate change to adapt, with a focus on those in low and middle income countries. This is part of Canada’s contribution to ensure 2021 is a transformative year for ambitious global climate action and COP26 is a success.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Canada’s climate finance has helped to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, supported adaptation, and mobilized new private sector capital for global climate action.

Canada’s climate finance counts as Official Development Assistance and is aligned with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy. With the current financing commitment having concluded, planning is underway for the next commitment

Canadian civil society organizations

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Accountability for performance: Funding requests are assessed in terms of expected results, and the proven capacity of the applicant to contribute to sustainable development. Funding recipients use results-based management to monitor results and adjust project activities in order to achieve sustainable development results. The department uses periodic results reporting as well as evaluations to determine whether to continue funding or approve new funding for an organization.

Predictable and accessible funding: To increase predictability of funding, the department has introduced a service standard for publishing notifications, issued more detailed information on funding processes and communicates more frequently with partners. To increase accessibility to funding, new processes have been introduced such as the use of concept notes which lower the burden of application, combined with the implementation of the $100 million Small and Medium Organizations Initiative. To date 40 SMOs have been approved for funding to implement development projects, a further 30 are being funded to test innovative solutions, and almost 300 have participated in capacity building activities. It is anticipated that a third call for concept notes under the Development Impact Window will be launched in the near future.

Direction and control: Senator Omidvar has proposed Bill-222 which seeks changes to Income Tax Act provisions related to the transfer of charitable funds to local organizations in developing countries. A recent report by the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development also recommends revisions to direction and control. The Government recognizes that some charities find the existing rules overly restrictive and onerous, and is committed to reviewing the rules to ensure that the regulatory framework supports the important work that charities perform.

Anti-racism: Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy provides a strong foundation for inclusion, diversity and anti-racism. In response to the anti-racism movement, the Department is examining its approach to inclusion and diversity in international development to make it more concerted and intentional, including with respect to anti-racism. Canadian CSOs are also seized with the issue. A group of CSOs, coordinated by Cooperation Canada, has consolidated an Anti-Racism Framework for Canada’s International Assistance Sector. Several of our implementing partners are also examining their own human resource practices and other activities.

FinDev Canada

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Background

The 2014 decision establishing FinDev Canada recommended an organization with an overall portfolio target of $1.3 billion. The decision also established that this would be based on an initial capitalisation of $300 million from EDC, and that the profile and rate of injection of further capital would be determined by a review of FinDev Canada’s operations. This review was conducted and in the first half of 2020 and its findings presented in August 2020.

An agreement is in place between GAC and FinDev Canada ($3.8M/4 years) to support FinDev Canada’s Technical Assistance Facility, which addresses capacity building needs of its investee companies, including around gender equality, inclusive human capital development, impact targeting, measurement and reporting.

Humanitarian response 2021

Update

COVID-19 has exacerbated already-unprecedented levels of humanitarian need and further strained the humanitarian system. In 2021, approximately 235 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance and protection, resulting in UN and Red Cross appeals totaling over US$37.5 billion and targeting 160 million people. This is an increase from the US$31 billion targeting 109 million people at the start of 2020, and is the highest of any annual global appeal to date.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

The Government of Canada uses the annual humanitarian appeals (which this year integrated COVID-19) as the basis for making decisions to respond to humanitarian crises. This approach provides an opportunity to look across humanitarian situations using a consistent evidence base to propose a comparable, needs-based Canadian response across the globe.

International Development Research Centre

Supplementary messages

Update

In February 2021, IDRC released Strategy 2030: A more sustainable and inclusive world. Anchored in Canada’s commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, the 10-year strategy is focused around climate change and inequality, two key challenges that underpin and guide its work through five program areas: Climate- Resilient Food Systems, Global Health, Education and Science, Democratic and Inclusive Governance, and Sustainable Inclusive Economies. As part of the strategy, IDRC is strengthening its knowledge-sharing efforts for greater use in policy and practice, both in Canada and abroad. The Centre is also mobilizing research and knowledge alliances for greater development impact.

Supporting facts and figures

LGBTQ2I support and the FIAP

Supplementary message

Update

The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the challenges faced by LGBTQ2I persons and communities around the world. In line with the feminist approach to international assistance, Canada is ensuring its COVID-19 response is human rights-based and inclusive of those who face discrimination and marginalization. For example, through its LGBTQ2I International Assistance Program, Global Affairs Canada is providing COVID-19 emergency financial and practical support to help local LGBTQ2I communities and organizations create tailored responses based on the needs of the people they serve.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

In line with the Feminist International Assistance Policy, Global Affairs Canada has been working with civil society to ensure the meaningful inclusion of LGBTQ2I persons in its international assistance efforts. More recently, the department has been taking steps to prioritize the implementation of a feminist approach that is intersectional across its policy and programming work in order to fully consider the inequalities that various groups experience. Canada’s feminist approach adopts an expanded definition of gender equality that takes into account diverse sexual orientation, gender identity and expression and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) identity factors and calls for the application of a gender based analysis plus (GBA+), a human rights-based approach and intersectional lens to all initiatives.

At the Equal Rights Coalition Global Conference held in 2018, Canada committed to identifying strategies to better address the challenges that LGBTQ2I communities face at home and abroad. This included ongoing meaningful engagement with LGBTQ2I persons

and their representative organizations to ensure they are able to contribute to and benefit from Canada’s international assistance efforts. The LGBTQ2I International Assistance Program ($30M) was developed as a direct result of this commitment and is being informed by the needs and realities of LGBTQ2I persons and their representative organizations.

Official Development Assistance levels

Supplementary messages

Update

At the end of the 2020-2021 fiscal year, Global Affairs Canada published an annual narrative report on the activities and results achieved by the Government of Canada’s international assistance in 2019-2020, along with a statistical report on international assistance that focuses on disbursements.

Supporting facts and figures

Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR)

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

Background

SRHR includes: age-appropriate comprehensive sexuality education; reproductive health services; family planning services, including contraception; safe and legal abortion services and post-abortion care; prevention and management of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections and other diseases.

Support for democratic institutions

Update

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, democratic systems of governance built on strong institutional capacity, transparency and trust have the best basis to overcome the crisis and build back sustainably. There is a renewed impetus to strengthen international cooperation on democracy support among like-minded countries, partner organizations, and civil society, stemming in part by the interest of the new U.S. Administration.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Supporting democracy, and democratic institutions in particular, is central to Canada’s strategic foreign policy interests and is reflected in the Feminist International Assistance Policy’s Inclusive Governance action area, which addresses human rights, access to justice, participation in public life, and public services that work for everyone.

Canada has long supported countries and communities as they strive to strengthen their democracies.

Canada takes a comprehensive approach to supporting inclusive governance and democracy. This includes:

WTO TRIPS Agreement waiver proposal

Supplementary messages

RESPONSIVE – WTO Director General’s “third way” proposal

RESPONSIVE – What is the relationship between Canada’s support for the WTO Director General’s proposed “third way” and the TRIPS waiver discussions?

Supporting facts and figures / Background

Crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia

Supplementary messages

Responsive – Will Canada’s approach include imposing sanctions on Eritrea?

If pressed:

Responsive, if needed - Canada’s approach to sanctions

If pressed:

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Security and humanitarian challenges in Cameroun

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Cameroon faces significant security and humanitarian challenges on three fronts: in the Far North region, where the terrorist group Boko Haram regained momentum in 2019; in the North-West and South-West regions, where long-standing grievances of the Anglophone minority community have since 2016 turned into an armed conflict; and in the eastern region with the spillover from the crises in the Central African Republic.

The country has also been facing a protracted political crisis following the October 2018 re-election of President Biya, with the main opposition party still contesting the election results.

The general humanitarian situation in Cameroon has deteriorated sharply over the last year due to the interplay of these protracted crises. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the economy, exacerbated existing vulnerabilities and food insecurity, particularly in regions already impacted by displacement and climatic shocks. According to UN OCHA, there are more than 3.9 million people in Cameroon in need of lifesaving humanitarian assistance.

Sahel

Supplementary message

Supporting facts and figures

Background

The Sahel countries are facing security, development and humanitarian issues, which are closely tied to poor socio-economic conditions, climate change, poor governance, limited state capacity and legitimacy, and exacerbated by the increasingly entrenched presence of armed groups, terrorist and criminal organizations.

Canada's development assistance responds to insecurity by supporting the delivery of basic social services, particularly in the areas of education and health. A growing number of projects specifically target the needs of populations affected by conflict, including economic resilience and social cohesion.

In Mali, Canada has welcomed the nomination of a transitional government and the lifting of sanctions by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), but stressed the importance for the Malian authorities to respect their commitment to hold free and fair elections before the end of the 18-month period in March 2022.

In October 2020, Canada launched two new bilateral development programs in Chad and Niger to increase its development footprint in the Sahel. These new programs, whose budget allocations will increase over the next five years (2021-2022 to 2025- 2026) to reach up to $10M per year, will help address the root causes of conflict and instability in the Sahel region, including extreme poverty, weak institutions and gender inequalities.

On April 19, 2021, during attacks by an armed group organized in neighboring Libya, Chad’s long-time President was killed. A Transitional Military Council, headed by the former President’s son, was established. Chad’s stability is important for the Sahel region. Chad is a major peacekeeping contributor to MINUSMA in Mali and to theG5 Sahel forces.

The first projects of Canada’s new bilateral development program in Chad are still in the early development stage. All program decisions will take into account the current political context in the country.

WE Charity projects

Supporting facts and figures

Global Affairs Canada has funded WE Charity (formerly Free the Children) for a total of approximately $1.4M between 2002 and 2020.

  1. Nine small initiatives (Grants and Contributions funding), totaling $1.3M between 2002 and 2008. These included activities in Kenya, India, Sri Lanka and Canada.
  2. Two contracts for service (Operation & Management funds) since 2017 totaling $53,374:
    1. In April 2017 the Consulate General of Canada in Los Angeles contracted WE Charity to promote the 150th anniversary of Canada and Canadian talent during WE Day California. The Consulate’s contract with WE Charity was to ensure the appearances of Canadian talent at WE Day California and the visibility of the Canada 150 and Government of Canada logos in promotional material. It included producing a video and photo highlight reel of Canadian talent for use on the Consulate’s social media, and ensuring the Government of Canada’s visibility in the promotional material. The contract value was $13,374.
    2. In February 2020, to mark the 30th edition of International Development Week, Global Affairs Canada hosted a live national social media broadcast from coast to coast to coast with the participation of our 8 Regional and Provincial Councils. WE Charity provided the location, equipment, translation and logistics within the WE Global Learning Centre located in Toronto. The contract value was $40,000.
  3. One initiative through the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) in 2016 totaling $35,000. This was for an initiative in Ethiopia implemented by Imagine1Day - a Canadian charity based in Vancouver, which went on to merge with WE Charity in 2017.

GAC Funding for WE Charity in Kenya

GAC funded two small projects in Kenya implemented by WE Charity (at the time, Free the Children) – one for $500,000 (MFM - Kids Can Free the Children) ended in 2004, and one for $57,910 (KFM - Maasai Alternative Income Beading Project) ended in 2008. Our records do not show any additional funding to WE Charity for programming in Kenya after 2008.

Afghanistan

Supplementary messages

Update

April 14, 2021, the U.S. announced its decision to withdraw all troops from Afghanistan by September 11, 2021. This follows a review of the February 2020 U.S.-Taliban Agreement. Consequently, NATO Allies have announced that they will start the withdrawal of Resolute Support Mission forces by May 1, 2021, completing the military exit within a few months.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Assistance to China

Supplementary messages

Background

Assistance to China: Canada’s bilateral development assistance to China began in 1981 and expired in 2013. Based on GNI per capita, China is an eligible ODA recipient under the OECD-DAC definition. In 2019-20, Canada international assistance to China totalled $6.98 million, including $3.22 million for bilateral aid and $3.76 million in imputed multilateral aid. Canada's bilateral expenditures in China ($3.22 million) are mainly funding to the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED), Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) projects and the Canada-China Scholars' Exchange Program (CCSEP).

CCICED: The China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED) is a high-level international advisory body that provides research-based policy recommendations on important environmental and development issues. Canadian funds do not support the Chinese secretariat or China’s participation in CCICED. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is the departmental lead on Canada’s participation in CCICED. Originally a CIDA-funded program, CCICED funding is now transferred from GAC to ECCC in annual installments of $1.6 million for a total of $8 million over 5 years drawn from Canada’s official development assistance (ODA) envelope. Canada’s participation in CCICED will continue until 2022 under the current arrangement. Both Canada and China provide approximately equal shares of CCICED’s overall budget (1/3 each) with the remaining 1/3 provided by other participating partners which include the Environmental Defense Fund (U.S.), the European Union, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway, among others.

CFLI in China: Canada provides modest funding for small-scale, short-term (usually 1 to 2 years) and high-impact projects to address local needs. The Canadian Embassy in Beijing administers and manages CFLI projects in China and the Canadian Ambassador to China is responsible for the final approval of all projects. These projects are planned and implemented mainly by local non-governmental organizations. [REDACTED].

CSSEP: The Canada-China Scholars' Exchange Program (CCSEP) was established in 1973 as an official academic exchange program. Over the past 47 years, more than 1000 scholars have participated in the program. For inbound CCSEP scholars from China, Canada provides a grant of $2,200 per month, which covers expenses such as medical insurance, visa, study and work permits, and living expenses. The Government of China pays for Chinese recipients’ tuition and travel to Canada. For outbound CCSEP students from Canada, Canada covers the cost of recipients’ travel to China, for up to $3,300 per return ticket. The Government of China covers the cost of Canadian recipients’ tuition, along with other expenses. Canada’s total expenditure for the CCSEP for 2020-2021 is $147,400.

AIIB: As the lead on AIIB, all questions should be directed to Finance Canada. China and many other countries receive funding for projects through multilateral organizations to which Canada contributes, including the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). Canada owns 1% of AIIB, which has adopted the operating framework, governance structures and best practices of similar longstanding MDBs, and includes members such as Australia, France, Germany and the UK. The majority of the AIIB’s active projects are co-funded with other multilateral development banks, and are accordingly governed by well-established rules and norms, including those regarding financial sustainability. The AIIB has not co-financed any projects with Chinese policy banks, which are commonly associated with the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI is a national foreign policy and development strategy, while the AIIB is a multilateral development bank. To date, the AIIB has approved funding for four projects in China: Legend Capital Healthcare Technology Fund; Emergency Assistance to China Public Health Infrastructure Project; Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Low Carbon Energy Transition and Air Quality Improvement Project and; Beijing Air Quality Improvement and Coal Replacement. The use of forced labour is strictly prohibited under the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank’s (AIIB) Environmental and Social Exclusion List. In 2016, the AIIB established the Complaints-resolution, Evaluation and Integrity Unit (CEIU), which is an independent compliance mechanism reporting directly to the AIIB Board of Directors.

Asian Development Bank (ADB): Canada is a founding member and is currently the 7th largest shareholder (2nd non-regional after the US), owning 5.23% of the Bank’s capital subscription. The ADB’s five largest shareholders are Japan and the United States (each with 15.6% of total shares), the People’s Republic of China (6.4%), India (6.3%), and Australia (5.8%). China is eligible for ADB’s regular ordinary capital resources or market-based resources of the Bank, which are only offered at market- based terms. China is not eligible for concessional resources provided either through the Asian Development Fund (ADF) or through lending from ADB’s capital resources. China is approaching the point of graduation from ADB assistance. The ADB has moved from an infrastructure-based support model for China to one that will focus on global public goods such as health and environment. Currently active ADB projects in China are: Hunan Xiangxi Rural Environmental Improvement and Green Development Project; Digital Entrepreneurship in Asia for Economic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Recovery; Enhancing Knowledge as Public Goods for Project Innovation, Demonstration, and Replication; Supporting the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Institute; Supporting Sustainable Finance and Regional Cooperation.

Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): Established in 2013 as President Xi Jinping’s signature foreign policy strategy, the BRI aims to foster greater economic and trade linkages across the Eurasian, African and South American continents. The initiative allows Beijing to leverage its economic capacity to diversify its international commercial relationships, gain regional influence, secure supply chains and resources, and advance its geopolitical objectives. Significant concerns have been raised as to whether the BRI conforms to established rules and norms surrounding human rights, financial sustainability and environmental protection. While both were initiated by China, the AIIB is not explicitly linked to the BRI and the AIIB has not co- financed any projects with Chinese policy banks associated with the BRI.

Myanmar coup/Rohingya crisis

Supplementary messages

Update

Since the February 1st coup d’état, the situation in Myanmar remains volatile and it is unclear what operating room partners, especially civil society organizations (CSOs), will have to implement their activities. Canada’s official position is that international assistance to Myanmar needs to be sustained but any support that could legitimize the military government will be shifted towards CSOs. Canadian partners continue to provide much-needed assistance to vulnerable and conflict-affected populations, particularly women and ethnic groups, despite challenging operating environments.

The violence and human rights violations by the Tatmadaw may increasingly force more vulnerable populations to flee Myanmar. The coup has also affected Rohingya across the border in Bangladesh, for whom the prospects of repatriation are now even more slim and ongoing support is required.

Supporting facts and figures

Summary of Funds Disbursed by End of Strategy (March 31, 2021)
Development Assistance to Bangladesh (Host communities around Cox’s Bazar)$82,000,000
Development Assistance to Myanmar$73,000,000
Humanitarian Assistance to Bangladesh and Myanmar$124,000,000
Peace and Stabilization Programming$21,000,000
TOTAL$300,000,000

Background

In August 2017, systematic, large-scale and targeted attacks by Myanmar’s security forces caused over 711,000 Rohingya in Rakhine State to flee to Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. The influx of refugees has resulted in significant humanitarian needs in Cox's Bazar and conditions in the refugee camps and settlements remain difficult.

The humanitarian and security situation in Rakhine State is also dire, with an estimated 600,000 remaining Rohingya and over 120,000 remain confined in internally displaced person camps since outbreaks of violence in 2012. They all face discriminatory systems and attitudes limiting their access to essential health services, freedom of movement, pathways to citizenship and livelihood opportunities – making the still unimplemented Rakhine Advisory Commission’s recommendations all the more important.

To date, Canada has committed $292 million against the $300 million dedicated towards “Canada’s Strategy to Respond to the Rohingya Crisis” (2018-2021) and expects to have spent the totality of the $300 million by March 31, 2021, to address humanitarian, development, peace and stabilization needs, as well as support for positive political developments in Myanmar and accountability efforts.

In Myanmar, to implement Canada’s strategy, bilateral development projects support efforts to counter sexual and gender-based violence and to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights; strengthen women’s voices and leadership; and strengthen inclusive governance and the capacity of local CSOs.

In Bangladesh, bilateral development funding included $82 million to help mitigate the impact of the crisis on host communities in areas such as livelihoods, community cohesion, education and environment and for longer term learning opportunities and health services for the refugees.

Peace and stabilization programming has contributed to peaceful national reconciliation, including effective participation of women in the peace process and peacebuilding activities.

Humanitarian assistance funding has helped address the life-saving needs of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, as well as of displaced and other vulnerable and conflict-affected populations in Myanmar.

Military Coup

On February 1st, the Myanmar military (Tatmadaw) overthrew the democratically- elected government in a military coup, detaining President U Win Myint, State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, and several politicians and officials from the National League for Democracy. Authority over Myanmar’s governance, has been seized by Commander in Chief Min Aung Hlaing and a state of emergency has been declared.

Large-scale anti-military protests had been occurring throughout Myanmar in response to the coup. As of March 22nd, over 250 civilians across the country have been killed by security forces. This is in addition to the military’s efforts to implement increasingly draconian legal measures to restrict mobilization and criminalize dissent, with over 2600 civil disobedience movement leaders, politicians, journalists, and human rights defenders arbitrarily detained.

Since the outset of this crisis, Canada has been coordinating with international partners to ensure a strong condemnation of the military’s actions. Canada released Ministerial statements on February 1st and 28th, condemning the coup and violent crackdowns by the military, and calling for the immediate release of those detained and the restoration of democratic rule. These condemnations were reiterated in two subsequent G7 statements, as well as at the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, UN Human Rights Council, and the World Trade Organization.

Prior to the Coup, Canada already had in place one of the most comprehensive sanctions regimes on Myanmar. In direct response to the actions of the Tatmadaw leadership, on February 18th, in concert with the UK and following similar measures by the US, Canada imposed sanctions on (9) nine high-ranking Myanmar military officials and continues to consider options for further targeted sanctions. Canada is also pursuing, in concert with international partners, a range of additional measures including efforts to cut off arms flows to, and target the revenues of the Tatmadaw.

Venezuela

Supplementary messages

Update

Canada continues to recognize Juan Guiadó as the interim President of Venezuela, following the December 6, 2020 “elections”, which were neither free nor fair. Over the past few months, there have been numerous reports of harassment of and interference against civil society, humanitarian organizations, and independent media that operate in Venezuela by the defacto government. Canada has committed funds  to launch a development program to respond to development needs within   Venezuela in alignment with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy.

Canada is working closely with UNHCR, IOM, and the Regional Response for Venezuela (R4V) platform in the planning of the next donors’ conference. As part of conference lead-up activities, Canada and the Inter-American Development Bank co- hosted a side event on the inclusion of the private sector in providing support to the socio-economic integration of Venezuelan migrants and refugees.

Supporting facts and figures

Middle East Strategy

Supplementary messages

Update

Budget 2021 provides $527 million in 2021-22, to GAC, DND, CSE, and CSIS to extend Canada’s Middle East Strategy for another year. This will allow departments to continue providing development, humanitarian and security assistance and military support, and to advance peace and stability in the region.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada:

Background

The Middle East Strategy was launched in February 2016 to respond to the crises in Iraq and Syria, and their impact on the region, particularly Jordan and Lebanon.

The Strategy commits over $4 billion over six years to help set the conditions for security and stability, alleviate human suffering, enable civilian-led stabilization programs, and support governance and longer-term efforts to build resilience. DND, CSIS, CSE and RCMP are key partners in delivering on Canada’s objectives.

Lebanon & Canadian assistance

Supplementary messages

Update

Over eight months since the August 4, 2020 Beirut port explosion, the situation remains dire. Hundreds of thousands of people require urgent support to restore their local communities and livelihoods. The explosion’s impact has been exacerbated by Lebanon’s deepening governance, economic and COVID-19 crises, and hosting of over one million refugees. Collectively these crises have put the country under severe strain and worsened the quality of life for most, and resulted in an alarming increase in the poverty rate, now estimated at over 50% of the population.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA)

Supplementary messages

Update

In January and February 2021, reports brought to the attention of Canada and other donors to UNRWA claimed that certain educational materials used by UNRWA for ‘self-learning’ during pandemic-related school closures violated UN values. UNRWA has since assessed those materials and taken corrective actions. The Minister of International Development and Canadian officials are working closely with partners and UNRWA’s senior management to address the issue of problematic educational materials, and to help ensure that UN values are upheld and that UNRWA takes further corrective actions, as needed, in this regard.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Since 1948, UNRWA has been the only UN organization mandated to provide basic services to over five million Palestinian refugees in the West Bank, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria and Jordan. UNRWA is almost entirely funded through voluntary contributions by international donors and has faced a significant funding shortfall partly as a result of growing needs, falling contributions, and a volatile environment. UNRWA's Program Budget (education, health and social services) and its Emergency Appeals for humanitarian assistance are currently facing deficits. Without significant additional resources, services may need to be cut, leading to negative humanitarian consequences.

West Bank and Gaza

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Elections: Palestinian Authority President Abbas issued a presidential decree that elections will take place in 2021.The last presidential elections took place in 2005, while the last parliamentary elections were held in 2006.

Israeli Settlements: In recent years, there has been increased construction of settlements deeper in the West Bank and in sensitive areas in and around Jerusalem. Canada does not recognize permanent Israeli control over territories occupied in 1967 (the Golan Heights, the West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip). Israeli settlements are also a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention and therefore illegal under international law.

Yemen

Supplementary messages

Update

Minister Gould announced Canada’s $69.9 million in humanitarian funding in 2021 at the High-Level Pledging Event for the Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen on March 1.

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Yemen continues to be the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. According to the UN’s 2021 Humanitarian Needs Overview, at least 20.7 million people in Yemen need humanitarian assistance, with funding requirements estimated at US $3.6 billion. Yet, the humanitarian response continues to be underfunded compared to 2018 levels.

Humanitarian needs continue to grow, driven primarily by protracted conflict, including the recent escalation of conflict in Marib; the economic blockade; and exacerbated by natural hazards such as flooding. Needs are high across all sectors, with the COVID- 19 pandemic placing further strain on an already weak health system. Humanitarian organizations also continue to face significant bureaucratic constraints to the effective delivery and monitoring of assistance, particularly, though not exclusively, in the north.

The most urgent priority is preventing famine. A recent Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis shows that 13.5 million people (45% of pop.) were facing acute food insecurity, including 16,500 in famine-like conditions in 2020.

Despite numerous UN, international humanitarian and political efforts, little progress has been made towards achieving a lasting and comprehensive peace in Yemen.

Ukraine

Context

Programming

Responsible business conduct

Supplementary message

Update

Ms. Sheri Meyerhoffer was appointed as the CORE in April 2019. The office of the CORE opened on March 15, 2021 to accept cases. In January 2019, MINT - Minister Carr at the time - instructed the Department to provide funding for a total of six positions and approximately $1 million per year. This was in addition to the funding provided for CORE through Budget 2018.

Supporting facts and figures

[REDACTED]

Background

Canada is committed to RBC and we expect Canadian companies active abroad to operate at the highest of standards: respecting human rights, operating lawfully and conducting activities in a manner consistent with international standards and Canadian values. Canada’s balanced approach to RBC includes both preventive measures and access to dispute resolution mechanisms through the CORE and the National Contact Point (NCP) for RBC. A company that chooses not to engage meaningfully with either the CORE or NCP could face the withdrawal of enhanced trade advocacy support and future Export Development Canada financial support.

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