Statement on World NGO Day

February 27, 2023 - Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, today issued the following statement:

“On World NGO Day, we honour the remarkable dedication and resilience of workers in international development and humanitarian assistance. These often-unsung heroes are committed to reaching vulnerable and marginalized people with responsive, inclusive and life-changing assistance.

“In the aftermath of the earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria, Canada’s flexible support for NGOs allowed them to respond quickly and adapt to meet evolving challenges. Canada has announced $50 million in assistance to provide food, water, protection and life-saving care to those affected.

“Local NGOs and partners in affected regions are the first to respond to crises, even though they themselves have often been directly affected. We are grateful to our NGO partners for sacrificing their time, safety and security to step forward in times of crisis and respond to humanitarian emergencies. Canada will continue to stand by them as they provide urgent humanitarian support to those in need.

“As I travel in the Indo-Pacific region this week, I am witnessing the results of Canada’s NGO partnerships first-hand. I am meeting humanitarian and international development workers who work tirelessly to respond to the Rohingya crisis and support host communities here in Bangladesh. They are working to protect dignity, alleviate suffering and ensure that the voices of women and girls are heard.

“I am also meeting with development partners who are strengthening food security, bolstering employment opportunities, protecting biodiversity and delivering health solutions that will impact millions of lives in the region. Their work advances progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals and helps people live healthier, greener and more prosperous lives.

“Whenever I meet with NGO workers, I am struck by their drive, passion and sense of purpose. They give me hope and inspire me to keep pushing for a better future for all. As we mark World NGO Day, join me in thanking them for their service.”