United Nations 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals

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• UN Sustainable Development Goals SDGs: SDG 1: End poverty in all its form everywhere
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries
• 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
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development

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

Planned initiatives:

• 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) provides additional assistance to low-income OAS 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 the highest benefits are paid to the lowest-income individuals
• while the beneficiaries of the OAS pension are gender-balanced, more women (59%) than men (41%) benefit from the GIS, and more women (86%) than men (14%) benefit from the Allowances

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: the Old Age Security program contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 1.1: “End Poverty in all its forms everywhere”, and the target for this ambition: “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 60 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 1.1: “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. The CPP enhancement that began in 2019 will reduce the number of families at risk of not having adequate income in retirement by a quarter and, over time, increase the maximum retirement pension by more than 50 percent. 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 1.1: “Reduce poverty in Canada in all its forms”, and the target for this ambition: “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 assists persons with disabilities in preparing for, obtaining and maintaining employment and advancing in their careers. The program also supports employers to hire and retain 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 3.6: “Canadians have healthy and satisfying lives”, and the 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 Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 3.6: “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 Enabling Accessibility Fund 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 3.5: “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 initiatives:

• 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 for up to 5 training periods
• in fiscal year 2023 to 2024, the CSFA Program will increase loan forgiveness for family doctors and nurses working in eligible underserved rural or remote communities. Nurses may qualify for up to $30,000 in loan forgiveness and doctors up to $60,000
• this measure will also contribute to SDG 3 as it is expected to improve access to healthcare for individuals who live in rural and remote communities in Canada by providing incentives for nurses and family doctors to work in these underserved communities
• the CSFA Program has a number of measures that contribute to SDG 10 as these measures are expected to reduce inequality by assisting borrowers in repayment and reducing their debt loads
• the CSFA Program provides repayment assistance to borrowers facing financial difficulties through the Repayment Assistance Program. Single borrowers are not required to start repaying their loans until they earn at least $40,000 per year, with this threshold being adjusted upwards based on family size
• the CSFA Program will also continue to help reduce the burden of student and apprentice loan repayment for young Canadians so they can invest in building their futures by making Canada Student Loans and Canada Apprentice Loans permanently interest-free, including those currently being repaid. The average student loan borrower will save $410 per year as a result of their loan being interest-free

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets:  the Canada Student Financial Assistance (CFSA) Program and the Canada Apprentice Loan contributes to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 4.1: “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: the Canada Education Savings Program helps make post-secondary education more affordable for Canadians by encouraging early planning and savings. The Government offers education savings incentives deposited in Registered Education Savings Plans, specifically the Canada Learning Bond and the Canada Education Savings Grant.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: the Canada Education Savings Program contributes to:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition for SDG 4: “Canadians have access to inclusive and quality education throughout their lives.”
• 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.”

Planned initiative: Supports for Student Learning Program funds youth-serving organizations to provide supports and opportunities to students. These supports make it easier for students to stay in school, continue their studies and gain new skills that will help them succeed in their learning and successful transition to PSE and the labour market.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: Supports for Student Learning Program contribute to advancing:

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 4.1: “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”
• UN Global Indicator Framework target 4.7: “By 2030 ensure all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development”

Planned initiative: Canada Service Corps promotes civic engagement among young people from 15 to 30 years old through access to meaningful volunteer service opportunities, including service placements and youth-led micro-grant projects. 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
• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 4.2: “Canadians have access to inclusive and quality education throughout their lives.”
• 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.”

Planned initiatives: Early Learning and Child Care and Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care. The Government of Canada is working with provincial, territorial, and Indigenous partners to build and implement a Canada-wide early learning and child care system. The goal is that families have access to high-quality, affordable, flexible and inclusive early learning and child care no matter where they live. The program also supports innovative projects to help improve life outcomes for children and families, and data and research projects to address key data gaps. 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 4.1: “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 to improve their foundational and transferable skills, including reading, numeracy, digital and adaptability skills.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: the Skills for Success Program 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 initiatives:

• under the Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs) and the Workforce Development Agreements (WDAs) with provinces and territories (PTs), the department helps people across the country prepare for, find, and keep employment
• the Government of Canada provides approximately $3 billion for skills and employment programs and services through the LMDAs and the WDAs with provinces and territories. More than a million training and employment services and supports interventions are offered to individuals and employers under these agreements each year
• the WDAs include specific funding targeted for persons with disabilities
• these agreements can also be used to support members of other equity-deserving groups such as Indigenous peoples, youth, older workers, and newcomers to Canada

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

• the Labour Market Development Agreements and the Workforce 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”

Planned initiative: through the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program, a distinctions-based program delivered by Indigenous service delivery providers, Indigenous participants will be provided with skills training, and employment-related and career development assistance to improve their skills and meet their long-term career goals.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program contributes 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 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls

Planned initiative:

• the Employment Equity Act is being reviewed and recommendations will be prepared on how best to improve the legislative framework
• the act currently supports equality and diversity in workplaces for the four designated groups: women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities. It also covers women in intersection with the three other designated groups
• 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:

• the 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”
• the 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”

Planned initiative: The Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy’s Women in the Skilled Trades initiative funds projects that aim to recruit, retain, and help women apprentices succeed in 39 eligible Red Seals trades found predominantly in the construction and manufacturing sectors. Projects are anticipated to be implemented in 2023 to 2024.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy’s Women in the Skilled Trades initiative contributes to advancing the 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: the 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
• 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”

Planned initiative: The Women’s Employment Readiness Pilot Program, run under the Skills For Success program, funds organizations to provide and test pre-employment and skills development supports for 4 groups of women: racialized women and/or Indigenous women; women with disabilities; women from the LGBTQ2+ community; and women with prolonged workforce detachment. The pilot also tests ways to improve employer inclusivity. Results will inform systemic changes to skills and employment programming for women.

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

• the Women Employment Readiness Pilot Program contribute to advancing the:
• Canadian Indicator Framework 5.3 ambition: “Canadians share responsibilities within households and families” and target: “Equal sharing of parenting roles and family responsibilities”
• UN Global Indicator Framework 5.1: “End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere”

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 entities that are subject to the act to identify, remove and prevent barriers to accessibility in seven 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 
• in 2023 to 2024, the department will fund projects aimed at increasing capacity in the professional sign language interpretation and translation sector across Canada. Eligible funding recipients may include entities such as sign language education institutions, professional associations representing interpreters, and community organizations representing sign language users
• in 2023 to 2024, the department will initiate work on the development of accessible Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) regulations. ICT is a major gateway to employment. Once finalized, the ICT accessibility regulations will ensure that persons with disabilities can participate and achieve their full potential in workplaces 

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.” Performance indicators that support measuring progress in the removal of barriers to employment will be finalized in 2023 to 2024.

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 an ongoing activity, Canada negotiates enforceable labour commitments in free trade agreements to effectively implement their labour laws, which should in turn reflect and embody internationally recognized labour standards. Additionally, this supports the compliance of partner countries with international labour standards, including 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 initiatives intends to address forced labour and upholds human rights and international standards in global supply chains. In addition to including enforceable labour provisions in Canada’s existing free trade agreements, these agreements include obligations to address child and forced labour. As noted above, the department is working with key federal departments to make progress on the Government’s commitment to advance legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains. The department also supports a range of other initiatives including the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)’s operationalization of the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour under the Customs Tariff.

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: eradicate the misclassification of employees in the federally regulated road transportation industry. Employee misclassification happens when an employer does not consider, nor treats a person who is an employee, as an employee. As a result, the employee cannot access standards and benefits that they would normally be entitled to.

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

• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.5 “Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth”
• 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 Temporary Foreign Worker Program has launched the new Migrant Worker Support Program to help workers better understand and exercise their rights. This will be achieved by supporting community-based organizations in the provision of migrant worker-centric programs and services. This will include on-arrival orientation services, educational activities and/or materials and assistance in emergency and at-risk situations
• the program will also propose new amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations that would provide further protection and seek improvements to living conditions in the accommodations of temporary foreign workers living in employer-provided accommodations
• the Temporary Foreign Worker Program is responsible for employer inspections, which help to protect temporary foreign workers from abuse and exploitation, and to protect the integrity of the Canadian labour market by encouraging employers to comply with program conditions. The department is focusing its efforts on rebuilding the compliance regime to ensure that inspections are delivered with a renewed focus on increased quality, timeliness and reach to protect the health and safety of temporary foreign workers

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: the Temporary Foreign 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 Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy’s Women in the Skilled Trades initiative funds projects that aim to recruit, retain, and help women apprentices succeed in 39 eligible Red Seals trades found predominantly in the construction and manufacturing sectors. Projects are anticipated to be implemented in 2023 to 2024.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy’s Women in the Skilled Trades initiative 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, will be provided with employment-related and career development assistance to support their long term career goals
• in addition, wrap around supports, such as child care, and other supports for persons with disabilities can be provided, particularly through the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program, to help address barriers to participation in employment-related training.

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” 
• UN Global Indicator Framework Target 8.6: “By 2020, substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training”

Planned initiative: the 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 and retain 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: Community Workforce Development Program will test place-based approaches to workforce planning and skill training with a focus on supporting underrepresented groups in the labour market. A minimum of 75% of participants in the program will belong to one or more of the following underrepresented groups: women, youth, persons with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, newcomers to Canada, members of official language minority communities, Black Canadians and other racialized individuals, older workers and individuals identifying as LGBTQ2+.

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

• the Community Workforce Development Program contributes to advancing the following UN Global Indicator Framework targets:
• 8.2: “Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading and innovation, including through a focus on high-value added and labour-intensive sectors”
• 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 funds organizations to deliver training, and to develop assessment tools and training resources to help Canadians to improve their foundational and transferable skills. This helps 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 development supports for 4 groups of women: racialized women and/or Indigenous women; women with disabilities; women from the LGBTQ2+ community; and women with prolonged workforce detachment. The pilot also tests ways to improve employer inclusivity. Results will inform systemic changes to skills and employment programming for women

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

• the Skills for Success Program funds organizations to design and deliver foundational and transferable skills training that 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 provides services promote partnerships and leverage networks for united action at all levels. 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 Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs) and the Workforce Development Agreements (WDAs) with provinces and territories, the department helps people across the country prepare for, find, and keep employment. Programs delivered under the LMDAs and WDAs provide skills training and employment programming with a focus on those further removed from the labour market and those wishing to upskill.

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: the Labour Market Development Agreements and the Workforce 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 (aged 15 to 30 years), particularly those who are the furthest away from employment opportunities, 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.”
• this strategy contributes to advancing: Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.5: “Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth.”

Planned initiative: the department has developed a gender-based analysis plus strategy to strengthen skills programs and policies’ ability to tackle the barriers limiting the full participation of diverse groups of women, men, non-binary and other gendered people in the labour market. This is done by building the internal analytical capacity of staff and improving GBA plus data quality to ensure skills programs promote gender equality, diversity and inclusion data, through three main pillars, which are:

• capacity building
• data investments
• policy guidance and support

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: this strategy contributes to advancing: Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 8.5: “Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth.”

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

Planned initiative: the Accessible Canada Act requires entities subject to the act identify, remove and prevent barriers to accessibility in seven priority areas. These include areas that support inclusive industrialization, such as transportation, the built environment, and information and communications technology (ICT). Over time, it will be easier for persons with disabilities to access information, public buildings and use public transportation systems.

Alternate Format Business Technology Challenge ESDC joined forces with Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) to create the Alternate Format Business Technology Challenge. The purpose of the challenge is to encourage innovation. This helps increase access to alternate format materials for Canadians with print disabilities. This project will develop an assistive voice-app that would include new software and the use of smart speakers.

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

• the Accessible Canada Act contributes to advancing UN Global Indicator Framework target 9.1: “Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all.” Performance indicators that support measuring progress in the removal of barriers to accessibility in the areas of transportation and ICT will be finalized in 2023 to 2024
• the Alternate Format Business Technology Challenge 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 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries

Planned initiative: Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI). The SBCCI takes targeted measures to build capacity and foundational infrastructure in Black communities. For example, through Capital Assistance, SBCCI dedicates funds for technology adaptation, equipment purchases, and for renovations or retrofits of existing workspaces or community spaces. SBCCI also supports capacity building of Black-led, Black-serving community based organizations to improve their efficiency and reduce existing gaps in adequate funding for community organizations between Black-serving organizations and non-Black-serving organizations. An additional example of reducing inequality within Canada is the establishment of the SBCCI External Reference Group (ERG). This group integrates the voices and lived experiences of Black Canadian communities into government decision-making processes that affect their lives. The ERG’s mandate is to support the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and ESDC in the implementation of the SBCCI, by providing advice on how to promote the inclusion of Black community organizations and remove barriers to the full participation of Black Canadians in all aspects of Canada’s economic and social life.

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 with Disabilities (CRPD)in 2010 and acceded to its Optional Protocol in 2018. The protocol is a separate treaty that establishes an international complaints mechanism for rights under the CRPD. In 2022, Dr. Laverne Jacobs, Canada’s first ever candidate, was successfully elected to the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN Committee). Canada has also submitted its combined second and third reports to the UN Committee. In the coming months, the UN Committee is expected to provide Canada with its date for appearance before the UN Committee to answer questions about its report. The CRPD guided the development of Canada’s first ever Disability Inclusion Action Plan, launched in October 2022, and will include a new Canada Disability Benefit.

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

• Canada’s ongoing implementation of the CRPD contributes to advancing:
• Canadian Indicator Framework target 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 Disability Inclusion Action Plan consists of future actions, including programs, policies and investments that aim to improve the lives of persons with disabilities in Canada and reduce inequality. Under Pillar 3: Accessible and Inclusive Communities, the Support for the production of alternate format print materials initiative from 2022 to 2024 aims to improve access to reading materials for persons with print disabilities.

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

• the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 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 Youth Employment and Skills Strategy helps young people (aged 15 to 30 years), 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: the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program is a distinctions-based labour market program designed to support First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Urban/non-affiliated Indigenous people improve their skills and meet their long term career goals to reduce the skills and employment gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. These supports are provided by an Indigenous service delivery network, supporting reconciliation and self-determination as priorities are set by Indigenous communities.

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

• the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training 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:

• under the Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs) and the Workforce Development Agreements (WDAs) with provinces and territories (PTs), the Government of Canada provides approximately $3 billion for individuals and employers to obtain skills training and employment supports. More than a million training and employment supports interventions are offered to individuals and employers under these agreements each year
• the LMDAs and WDAs allow more Canadians, including those from equity-deserving groups such as persons with disabilities, women, youth, Indigenous people and visible minorities, to have access to training and supports to find and maintain employment

Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets: the Labour Market Development Agreements and the Workforce Development Agreements continues to advance Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 10.2: “Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced”

Planned initiative: the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities provides annual funding to help persons with disabilities prepare for, obtain and maintain employment, and advance in their careers. It supports persons with disabilities of various demographic groups (that is, gender, age, visible minorities, Indigenous, etc.) in overcoming barriers to participation in the Canadian labour market. It also supports employers to hire and retain 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.”

Planned initiative: the Women’s Employment Readiness Pilot Program, run under the Skills For Success program, funds organizations to provide and test pre-employment and skills development supports for 4 groups of women: racialized women and/or Indigenous women; women with disabilities; women from the LGBTQ2+ community; and women with prolonged workforce detachment. The pilot also tests ways to improve employer inclusivity. Results will inform systemic changes to skills and employment programming for women.

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

• the Women’s Employment Readiness Pilot Program contributes to:
• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 10.1: “Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced”, as well as ambitions 10.2 and 10.4
• UN Global indicator Framework Goal 10: “Reduce inequality within and among countries”, and more specifically targets 10.1, 10.2, and 10.3

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. The content is theme-based, there is a search function that allows the user to find content from anywhere on the Government of Canada site and tools tailored to specific program, such as chatbots.

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

• this work contributes to advancing:
• UN Global Indicator Framework 16.6: “Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels”
• 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”

Planned initiative: The Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund is led by Black Canadians for Black Canadian communities, increasing the autonomy of Black Canadian communities to respond to the priorities they face, including combatting anti-Black racism. As a dedicated funder of Black organizations, the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund will help redress the systemic underfunding of Black non-profits and charities, while supporting the diverse work of these organizations in advancing SDG 16 in communities across the country.

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

• the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund contributes to advancing:
• Canadian Indicator Framework ambition 16.7: “Canadians are supported by effective, accountable and transparent institutions” 
• 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 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 and help organizations reach underserved and diverse Canadian populations. It supports social purpose organizations by providing them with access to flexible financing opportunities. This allows the organizations to grow and develop new solutions and partnerships to address pressing social and environmental issues. It also enhances their ability to attract public and private investments that generate positive social and environmental impacts. Organizations supported include 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”
• 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”
• SDG 10: “Reduce inequality within and among countries”
• 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: SICDD Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI). As part of Canada’s recognition of the United Nations Decade for People of African Descent (UNDPAD), since 2018, the government has announced a number of budget and mandate commitments aimed at addressing issues affecting Black Canadian communities and pledged to work with federal and community organizations to advance positive changes. The department, through SBCCI, is currently leads the implementation of the UNDPAD across the federal government, working with other federal organizations and stakeholders to:

• develop a whole-of-government action plan on the UNDPAD
• strengthen collaboration, strategic alignment and oversight on programs and initiatives specific to improving the wellbeing of Black Canadians
• implement plans, priorities and strategies aimed to support Black Canadians

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

• the SICDD Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) 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”

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.”