Supplementary Information Table – United Nations 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals

From: Employment and Social Development Canada

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• UN Sustainable Development Goals SDGs: SDG 1: End poverty in all its form everywhere 1
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages 3
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all 5
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls 8
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all 9
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries 14
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels 17
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development 17

UN Sustainable Development Goals SDGs: SDG 1: End poverty in all its form everywhere

Planned initiative

The Old Age Security (OAS) program helps to reduce the incidence of low income among seniors. OAS benefits include the OAS pension, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and the Allowances. The OAS pension is paid to all individuals aged 65 or over who meet the residence and legal status requirements.

The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly payment to low-income Old Age security pensioners.

The Allowances provide benefits to low-income 60 to 64 year-old individuals who are either the spouse or common-law partner of a GIS recipient (the Allowance), or who are a widow/widower (the Allowance for the Survivor).

Both the GIS and the Allowances are income-tested to ensure that that the highest benefits are paid to the lowest-income individuals.

While the beneficiaries of the OAS pension are gender-balanced, more women (60%) than men (40%) benefit from the GIS, and more women (86%) than men (14%) benefit from the Allowances. In addition, more women (57%) than men (43%) will benefit from the new measure to permanently increase the OAS pension for seniors aged 75 and over by 10%, effective July 2022.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Old Age Security program contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of “End Poverty in all its forms everywhere”
• Canadian Indicator Framework target “50% reduction in the poverty rate for 2015 by 2030”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 1.2: “By 2030, reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 1.3: “Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable”

The program also advances SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

The GIS also contributes to advancing SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all. The Old Age Security Act contains a provision, known as the GIS Earnings Exemption, which encourages the labour force participation of older workers by allowing low-income seniors who work to keep more of their benefits.

Planned initiative

The Canada Disability Savings Program (CDSP) supports the well-being of its beneficiaries with severe and prolonged disabilities. It encourages long-term savings by providing federal disability savings incentives to improve their financial security. These incentives are the Canada Disability Savings Bond and the Canada Disability Savings Grant. This becomes especially important throughout later life when parents and family may no longer be able to provide support. This financial security can support the beneficiary’s health and well-being, especially past age 59 when withdrawal of money typically begins.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Canada Disability Savings Program contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of “End Poverty in all its forms everywhere”

The program also advances SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

Planned initiative

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) provides partial income replacement for Canadian workers and their families in the event of retirement, disability or death. Enhancement to the CPP, which will take place over the next several years, will reduce the number of families at risk of not having adequate income in retirement by a quarter. This promotes, this promotes economic inclusion for retirees, survivors, people with disability, and their dependents.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributes to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework target 1.3: “Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable”

Planned initiative

Opportunity for All – Canada’s First Poverty Reduction Strategy aims to improve the social and economic well-being of all Canadians. This will ensure that everyone has a fair and equal chance to succeed. The legislated poverty reduction targets are aligned with SDG 1 and aim to reduce poverty by 50% by 2030, relative to 2015 levels.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

Opportunity for All – Canada’s First Poverty Reduction Strategy contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of “Reduce poverty in Canada in all its forms”
• Canadian Indicator Framework target 1.1: “50% reduction in the poverty rate for 2015, by 2030”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 1.2: “By 2030, reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women, and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definition”

Planned initiative

The Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities provides $40 million annually in funding to assist persons with disabilities prepare for, obtain and maintain employment and advance in their careers. The program also supports employers to hire and integrate persons with disabilities and make workplaces more accessible and inclusive. This helps persons with disabilities to be financially independent and less reliant on social assistance.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 1.1: “Reduce poverty in Canada in all its forms”

Planned initiative

Through the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program and the Skills and Partnerships Fund, participants will be provided with employment-related and career development assistance.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program and the Skills and Partnerships Fund contribute to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 1.1: “Reduce poverty in Canada in all its forms”

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

Planned initiative

The New Horizons for Seniors Program provides funding for projects that increase the social participation and inclusion of seniors in their communities. Increased social inclusion is directly linked to improved mental health.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The New Horizons for Seniors Program contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of “Canadians have healthy and satisfying lives” and associated indicator: “Percentage of Canadians who perceived their overall health and social well-being as very good to excellent”

Planned initiative

The Social Development Partnerships Program funds projects that improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities, children and families, Black Canadian communities, and other vulnerable populations facing physical, economic and social pressures.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Social Development Partnerships Program contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of “Canadians have healthy and satisfying lives” and associated indicator: “Percentage of Canadians who perceived their overall health and social well-being as very good to excellent”

Planned initiative

Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) funds projects that make Canadian communities and workplaces more accessible for persons with disabilities. For example, past EAF-funded projects have included multisensory rooms, which support people with cognitive and/or mental health disabilities. These rooms support the provision of mental health services in community spaces.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) program contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of “Canadians have healthy and satisfying lives” and associated indicator: “Percentage of Canadians who are satisfied or very satisfied with their life”

The Enabling Accessibility Fund also contributes to advancing other sustainable development goals, including:

• UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.5: “By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value”
• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 10.1: “Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.2: “By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status”
• UN Global Indicator Framework 10.3: “Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 11.7: “By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible, green and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons and persons with disabilities”

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all

Planned initiative

Canada Student Financial Assistance (CFSA) Program and Canada Apprentice Loan. The CSFA Program provides non-repayable grants and repayable loans to help Canadian students pay for their post-secondary education. The Canada Apprentice Loan helps participants complete their apprenticeship in a designated Red Seal trade. With the Canada Apprentice Loan, participants can get up to $4,000 in interest-free loans per period of technical training. The money can be used to help pay for tuition, tools, equipment and living expenses, to cover forgone wages or to help participants support their family.

In fiscal year 2022 to 2023, the CSFA Program will be doubling Canada Student Grants and expanding disability supports to students with persistent or prolonged disabilities. This is expected to improve access to post-secondary education for over 600,000 students each year, including students from low- and middle-income families, students with disabilities, and students with dependents.

CSFA Program Grants and Loans

The CSFA Program will also increase the income eligibility thresholds for the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP). This will ensure that no single borrower is required to start repaying their loan until they earn at least $40,000 per year. This threshold will be adjusted upward based on family size to ensure that no one needs to make a student loan payment they cannot afford, regardless of their family size. This measure is expected to benefit over 121,000 borrowers annually.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Canada Student Financial Assistance Program and the Canada Apprentice Loan contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition: “Canadians have access to inclusive and quality education throughout their lives”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 4.3: “By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 4.4: “By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship”

Planned initiative

Supports for Student Learning Program funds expert organizations to provide services and opportunities to students. These supports, provided outside the classroom, make it easier for students to stay in school, continue their studies and gain new skills that will help them succeed in their education. The program aims to reach students who face greater barriers to education.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

Supports for Student Learning Program contribute to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework Ambition: “Canadians have access to inclusive and quality education throughout their lives”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 4.5: “By 2030, eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for the vulnerable, including persons with disabilities, Indigenous peoples and children in vulnerable situations”

Planned initiative

Canada Service Corps promotes civic engagement among young people from 15 to 30 years old through access to meaningful volunteer service opportunities. These opportunities help them gain essential life skills and experience.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Canada Service Corps Program contributes to advancing SDG 4 by promoting lifelong learning opportunities for participants during the course of their service opportunity.

Planned initiative

Early Learning and Child Care and Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care

The Early Learning and Child Care program is a community-based system of quality child care. It will help to provide all families with access to high-quality, affordable, flexible and inclusive early learning and child care no matter where they live. For Indigenous children and families, culturally appropriate programs can be crucial in creating a foundation for a child’s cultural identity and sense of worth. These programs take into account the cultures, languages, traditions, values and customs of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Early Learning and Child Care and Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care initiatives contribute to advancing:

• Canadian Indicators Framework Ambition: “Canadians have access to inclusive and quality education throughout their lives”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 4.2: “By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education”

These programs also advance SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by providing parents with access to affordable child care which facilitates their return to work.

Planned initiative

The Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities provides skills training and employment supports for persons with disabilities to help them prepare for, obtain and maintain employment, and advance in their careers. It supports persons with disabilities in overcoming barriers to participation in the Canadian labour market, and it supports employers to hire persons with disabilities and make workplaces more accessible and inclusive. The program assists persons with disabilities receive the essential skills training needed to enhance their employability.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities contributes to advancing:

• UN 2030 Global Indicator Framework SDG 4.4: “By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship”

Planned initiative

The Skills for Success Program supports the development and delivery of training opportunities and training resources for adult Canadians. This is meant to improve their foundational and transferable skills, including literacy, numeracy, digital and adaptability skills.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

Skills for Success contributes to advancing:

• the UN Global Indicator Framework target 4.6: “By 2030, ensure that all youth and substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy”

Planned initiative

Under the Workforce Development Agreements (WDAs) and the Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs) with provinces and territories (PTs), the department helps people across the country prepare for, find, and keep employment. Each year, the department provides approximately $3.4 billion in funding for individuals and employers to obtain skills training and employment supports under the WDAs and the LMDAs. While the Government of Canada provides funding and sets parameters under these agreements, PTs consult with labour market stakeholders in their jurisdictions to set priorities and inform the design and delivery of programs and services that meet the needs of their local labour markets.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Workforce Development Agreements and the Labour Market Development Agreements contribute to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework target 4.4: “By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 4.5: “By 2030, eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for the vulnerable, including persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples and children in vulnerable situations”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 4.6: “By 2030, ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy”

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls

Planned initiative

The Employment Equity Act and the federal employment equity framework are being reviewed and recommendations will be prepared on how best to improve them.

The Act currently supports equality and diversity in workplaces for the 4 designated groups: women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities.

The review of the Act includes Pay Gap Reporting. Federally regulated private sector employers covered by the Employment Equity Act are required to report their salary data in a way that shows aggregate pay.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

Employment Equity Act contributes to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework target 5.a: “undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to ownership and control over land and other forms of property, financial services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national laws”
• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition: 5.2 “Gender equality in leadership roles and at all levels of decision-making”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 5.5: “Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision making in political, economic and public life”

Pay Gap Reporting contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 5.2: “Gender equality in leadership roles and at all levels of decision-making”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 5.c: “Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels”

These programs also advance SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by providing parents with access to affordable child care which facilitates their return to work.

Planned initiative

The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Women will encourage women to enter and succeed in Red Seal trades where they are underrepresented. It will also help ensure that women are increasingly able to model leadership to other aspiring female tradespeople.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Women contributes to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework target 5.5: “Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life”

Planned initiative

Through the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program, wrap around supports can be provided to participants including women, to make it easier for them to take part in employment-related training. This supports employment by helping to address barriers to participation. Supports can include childcare and living expenses, which promotes women’s participation in skills training to find employment.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program contributes to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 5.c: “Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all woman and girls at all levels”

Planned initiative

Employment Insurance parental and caregiving benefits provide financial assistance to people who are away from work:

• because they're pregnant or have recently given birth;
• to care for their newborn or newly adopted child, and/or;
• providing care or support to a gravely ill or critically ill family member

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Employment Insurance parental and caregiving benefits contribute to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 5.3 “Canadians share responsibilities within households and families”
• Canadian Indicator Framework target 5.3.1: “Equal sharing of parenting roles and family responsibilities”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 5.4: “Recognize and value unpaid care and domestic work through the provision of public services, infrastructure and social protection policies and the promotion of shared responsibility within the household and the family as nationally appropriate”

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

Planned initiative

The Accessible Canada Act requires parties that are subject to the Act to identify, remove and prevent barriers to accessibility in 7 priority areas including employment. When barriers to employment are removed, Canadians with disabilities have increased skill development and employment opportunities. In addition, workplaces are more accommodating and persons with disabilities can participate more fully in the labour market economy. This helps communities and Canada’s economy thrive so that all Canadians benefit.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Accessible Canada Act contributes to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.5: “By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value”

Planned initiative

Provide 10 days of paid sick leave for federally regulated workers that affords them job protection and income security while taking medical leave for personal health, illness or mental health reasons, and addiction treatment.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

This initiative contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.5: “Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.3: “Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation, and encourage the formalization and growth of micro, small and medium sized enterprises, including through access to financial services”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.5: “By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value”

Planned initiative

Negotiation and implementation of labour provisions of free trade agreements. As ongoing activity, Canada negotiates with partner countries through trade agreements to effectively implement their labour laws. Additionally, this support the compliance of partner countries with international labour standards. For example, freedom of association and collective bargaining.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

This initiative contributes to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework 8.8: “Protect labour rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers, including migrant workers, in particular women migrants, and those in precarious employment”

Planned initiative

Forced Labour in Global Supply Chains initiatives intends to address forced labour and upholds human rights and international standards in global supply chains. This includes negotiations of enforceable labour provisions in Canada’s existing free trade agreements. These agreements include obligations to address child and forced labour. In addition, the department is working with the Canada Border Services Agency and other federal departments on operationalization of the Customs Tariff prohibition on the importation of goods produced by forced labour.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

This initiative contributes to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.7: “Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labour, end modern slavery and human trafficking and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour, including recruitment and use of child soldiers, and by 2025 end child labour in all its forms”

Planned initiative

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program will establish the new Migrant Worker Support Program to help workers better understand and exercise their rights. This will be done by supporting community-based organizations in the provision of migrant worker-centric programs and services. This will include on-arrival orientation services and assistance in emergency and at-risk situations.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program through the Migrant Support Worker Program will contribute to advancing:

• The UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.8: “Protect labour rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers, including migrant workers, in particular women migrants, and those in precarious employment”

Planned initiative

The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Women will encourage women to enter and succeed in Red Seal trades where they are underrepresented. It will also help ensure that women are increasingly able to model leadership to other aspiring female tradespeople.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Women contributes to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.5: “By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value”

Planned initiative

The Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program helps Canadians from groups under-represented in the labour market participate in workforce training and up-skilling initiatives. This includes women, Indigenous peoples, newcomers, persons with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ2+ communities, and racialized communities, including Black Canadians. The program will also invest in initiatives that reduce barriers to make it easier for under-represented groups to get the skills they need to find work in key sectors.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.1: “Canadians have access to quality jobs”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.5: “By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value”

Planned initiative

Through the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program and the Skills and Partnerships Fund, Indigenous participants, including Indigenous persons with disabilities, will be provided with coaching and mentorship as well as skills development and employment training to support career development.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program and the Skills and Partnerships Fund contribute to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 8.5: “By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value”
• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.1: ”Canadians have access to quality jobs”
• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.6: “Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth”

Planned initiative

Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities assists persons with disabilities to prepare for, obtain and maintain employment and advance in their careers. It supports persons with disabilities in overcoming barriers to participation in the Canadian labour market, and supports employers to hire persons with disabilities. It also supports making workplaces more accessible and inclusive to persons with disabilities.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Opportunities Fund contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework 8.2 ambition: “Canadians have access to quality jobs”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.5: “By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value”

Planned initiative

The Skills for Success program will provide Canadians with the wrap around services, supports and training they need to improve their foundational and transferable skills. This will help them to learn other skills (technical and job-specific) so that they can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing labour market.

In addition, the Women’s Employment Readiness Pilot Program, run under the Skills For Success Program, funds organizations to provide and test pre-employment and skill supports coupled with wrap-around (childcare, counselling, living allowances, etc.) supports to under-represented women.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Skills for Success program through targeted investments in the design and delivery of training and training resources contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.1: “Canadians have access to quality jobs”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.5: “By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value”

The Women’s Employment Readiness Pilot Program also contributes to advancing these same targets.

Planned initiative

The Enabling Fund for Official Language Minority Communities provides funding to non-profit organizations across Canada. This funding helps organizations to act within their communities to promote partnerships and leverage networks for united action. The program enhances the development and vitality of official language minority communities. It does this by strengthening capacity in the areas of human resource development and community economic development. It also promotes collaboration at all levels, including federal partners.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Enabling Fund for Official Language Minority Communities contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.5: “Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth”

Planned initiative

Under the Workforce Development Agreements (WDAs) and the Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs) with provinces and territories (PTs), the department helps people across the country prepare for, find, and keep employment. Each year, the department provides approximately $3.4 billion in funding for individuals and employers to obtain skills training and employment supports under the WDAs and the LMDAs.

While the department provides funding and sets parameters under these agreements, PTs consult with labour market stakeholders in their jurisdictions to set priorities and inform the design and delivery of programs and services that meet the needs of their local labour markets.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Workforce Development Agreements and the Labour Market Development Agreements contribute to advancing:

• the UN Global Indicator Framework target 8.5: “By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value”

Planned initiative

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy helps young people, particularly those facing barriers to employment, get the information and gain the skills, work experience and abilities they need to make a successful transition into the labour market.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

This Strategy contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.1: “Canadians have access to quality jobs”

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries

Planned initiative

Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI)

The SBCII takes targeted measures to build capacity and foundational infrastructure in Black communities.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

This Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 10.1: “Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 10.2: “By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status”

Planned initiative

The COVID-19 Disability Advisory Group provides advice in relation to the disability inclusion and accessibility priorities of the Government of Canada.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The COVID-19 Disability Advisory Group contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 10.1: “Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.1: “By 2030, progressively achieve and sustain income growth of the bottom 40 per cent of the population at a rate higher than the national average”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.2: “By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.3: “Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.4: “Adopt policies, especially fiscal, wage and social protection policies, and progressively achieve greater equality”

Planned initiative

Canada ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons (CRPD) with Disabilities in 2010 and acceded to its Optional Protocol in 2018. The protocol establishes an international complaints mechanism. In 2022, Canada will be running a candidate for the election of members for the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Canada will also be submitting its combined second and third reports to the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The Committee will make recommendations to Canada on further actions to take to implement the CRPD. The CRPD is also guiding the development of Canada’s first ever Disability Inclusion Action Plan, including a Canada disability benefit.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

Canada’s on going implementation of the CRPD contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework 10.2.1: “Proportion of population reporting discrimination or unfair treatment”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.2: “By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.3: “Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard.”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10:4: “Adopt policies, especially fiscal, wage and social protection policies, and progressively achieve greater equality”

Planned initiative

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy helps young people, particularly those facing barriers to employment, get the information and gain the skills, work experience and abilities they need to make a successful transition into the labour market.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 10.1: “Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.2: “By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status”

Planned initiative

Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program and the Skills and Partnership Fund is designed to help Indigenous people improve their skills and find employment.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

Indigenous Skills and Employment Training and the Skills and Partnership Fund contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 10.1: “Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.2: “By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status”
• UN Global Indicator Framework 10.3: “Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard”

Planned initiative

Under the Workforce Development Agreements (WDAs) and the Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs) with provinces and territories (PTs), the department provides approximately $3.4 billion in funding for individuals and employers to obtain skills training and employment supports.

The LMDAs and WDAs allow more Canadians, including those from underrepresented groups such as persons with disabilities, women, youth, Indigenous peoples and visible minorities, to have access to training and supports to find and maintain employment.

While the department provides funding and sets parameters under these agreements, PTs consult with labour market stakeholders in their jurisdictions to set priorities and inform the design and delivery of programs and services that meet the needs of their local labour markets.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Workforce Development Agreements and the Labour Market Development Agreements continues to advance:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 10.1: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced”

Planned initiative

The Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities provides annual funding to assist persons with disabilities to help them prepare for, obtain and maintain employment, and advance in their careers. It supports persons with disabilities in overcoming barriers to participation in the Canadian labour market. It also supports employers to hire and integrate persons with disabilities and create more inclusive and accessible workplaces.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 10.1: “Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 10.2: “By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status”

Planned initiative

The Enabling Fund for Official Language Minority Communities provides funding to non-profit organizations across Canada. This funding helps organizations to act within their communities to promote partnerships and leverage networks for united action. The program enhances the development and vitality of official language minority communities. It does this by strengthening capacity in the areas of human resource development and community economic development. It also promotes collaboration at all levels, including federal partners.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Enabling Fund for Official Language Minority Communities contributes to advancing:

• UN Global Indicator Framework target 10.2: “By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status”

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels

Planned initiative

The Government of Canada’s Internet presence supports Canadians by providing easy, fast and convenient access to information and services online. Through Service Canada, the department is the principal publisher for the Government of Canada website, Canada.ca. The site provides an enhanced user experience. It is focused on clients’ needs, content is theme-based, and there is a search function that allows the user to find content from anywhere on the Government of Canada site.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

This work contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 16.7: “Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 16.10: “Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements”
• UN Global Indicator Framework 16.6: “Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels”

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development

Planned initiative

The Social Innovation and Social Finance Strategy was designed to promote social equity. It supports Social Purpose Organizations’ by providing them with access to flexible financing opportunities. This allows the organizations to grow and enhance their ability to attract public and private investments that generate positive social and environmental impacts. Organizations supported included charities, non-profits, social enterprises, co-operatives, businesses with a social mission. IT helps these organizations reach underserved and diverse Canadian populations.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Social Innovation and Social Finance Strategy contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 17.1: “Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs”
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 17.17: “Encourage and promote effective public, public-private and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships”

The program also advances SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all and SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries.

Planned initiative

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Funding Program supports the work of partners to accelerate progress on all the SDGs. Partners include not-for-profit organizations, provinces and territories, municipalities, academia, the private sector, and Indigenous peoples. The program provides support to projects to increase public awareness of the SDGs, develop new partnerships and networks, improve knowledge, identify innovative approaches, and contribute to reconciliation with Indigenous people.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Funding Program contributes to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 17.1: “Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs”