Statement by Minister Bibeau on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

October 17, 2018 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:

“This year, the theme of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is ‘Coming together with those furthest behind to build an inclusive world of universal respect for human rights and dignity.’

“Extreme poverty and human rights are intertwined. The world’s poorest people are also among those who are the most vulnerable to violations of their rights–especially in crisis regions.

“That is why Canada is actively working to protect and promote human rights around the world, including in Myanmar, Syria, Ukraine and Venezuela.

“It is also why Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy is based on human rights. Everybody should have equal access to health care, healthy food, quality education and humanitarian assistance. Women and girls, in particular, face continuing obstacles to having these rights recognized.

“I am proud that last June, Canada mobilized G7 countries to support the empowerment of adolescent girls and to promote gender equality in humanitarian action. These commitments will advance respect for the rights of women and girls.

“In this 70th anniversary year of the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, I commend the activists, the humanitarian workers and all who defend the rights of those furthest behind. They make a significant contribution to the 2030 Agenda.”