Statement by Minister Bibeau on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
Statement
October 17, 2016 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today issued the following statement:
“On this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, I want to reiterate Canada’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals. These goals, endorsed by 193 countries, provide us with a universal vision for building a more inclusive world—the kind of world we all want to live in: one in which no one is left behind and in which we end poverty everywhere.
“To support this global effort, Canada is reviewing its international assistance to ensure that it empowers the poorest and most vulnerable, including those living in fragile states. Since we know that women and girls are disproportionately affected by poverty, this means supporting their participation and leadership through all of our development efforts.
“We must listen to the voices of women and girls. We must ensure that they have access to the resources and opportunities they need to make their own choices as positive agents of change in their families, communities and countries. Tackling poverty is not only an economic issue. It is not only about more money or better jobs. It is about equality and human dignity.
“That is why the theme of this year’s International Day for the Eradication of Poverty—Moving from Humiliation and Exclusion to Participation: Ending Poverty in All Its Forms—is particularly timely. We must ensure that women and girls are able to participate and lead in decision-making processes. Because when they do, the policies and programs that result are not only more effective, they have the potential to bring about real change—the kind of change we need to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and build that better world.”
Contacts
Bernard Boutin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
343-203-5977
bernard.boutin@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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