The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified systemic and long-standing inequalities, with women and girls disproportionately affected by the crisis. Bold action is needed to renew momentum and accelerate progress on gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in all their diversity.
A decade of war has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis, leading to the dire suffering of millions of people in Syria and neighbouring countries. The COVID-19 pandemic has only magnified their hardship.
Growing trade and investment partnerships between Canada and the dynamic economies of Africa is more important than ever as businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The human cost of the ongoing conflict in Yemen is dire. That is why Canada is committed to ensuring that emergency relief quickly reaches those most affected by the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the education of 9 out of 10 learners worldwide, millions of them children living in countries facing a humanitarian crisis. The impacts are particularly severe for refugees and other forcibly displaced children and youth, especially girls, who are most at risk of being left behind.
Today, the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, announced that Canada will contribute up to $55 million to the Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) Fund, an investment fund initiated by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) to support sustainable land management and land restoration. This investment is part of Canada’s $2.65 billion climate finance commitment, as well as the G7 Charlevoix Commitment for Innovative Financing for Sustainable Development.
Providing humanitarian assistance and responding to the needs of Palestinian refugees is part of the path toward peace and prosperity in the Middle East. That is why Canada is committed to meeting the basic needs of the poorest and most vulnerable among this population.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a profound global impact, with its wide-reaching effects amplified for vulnerable populations both in Canada and around the world. This virus will not be fully eradicated until it’s eradicated everywhere. That is why Canada is committed to a robust global effort to end the pandemic and address its devastating health, social, economic and security impacts. Canada continues to do its part to ensure that everyone, everywhere, has access to COVID-19 tests, treatments and vaccines.
Canada is unwavering in its support for Ukraine as it secures its future as a stable, democratic and prosperous country. This includes supporting the Government of Ukraine to enhance the economic security of women, especially those affected by the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
Today, the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, announced that Canada is providing $8.5 million over 5 years, beginning in 2020, to UN Women to empower women, prevent violence and promote social cohesion in Southeast Asia.