The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:
“On the occasion of the 30th International Development Week [IDW], I am reminded of the incredible generosity and compassion that Canadians demonstrate here at home and around the world. Nearly 30 years ago, the Government of Canada dedicated the first week of February to highlighting the actions of Canadian international assistance workers who strive to improve peoples’ lives and our planet’s well-being. Since then, every year, we take this opportunity to celebrate the vision Canadians have for a better world.
“Canada has a long history of working with our international partners in helping the most vulnerable people around the world. We are committed to taking action that focuses on building a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world for everyone. Actions like ensuring millions of children are vaccinated against illnesses like polio, supporting the transition to low-carbon and climate-resilient economies and making education a reality for thousands of girls around the world—these are just three examples of Canada’s international assistance and the important work of Canadian development organizations and workers making a difference in the lives of people around the world.
“There have been notable successes in Canadian international assistance since we started marking IDW in 1991 but there remains more to do, and Canadians are committed to continue their efforts to push for a better world for everyone. This is why, as of 2015, Canada is supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs] agenda. The SDGs chart a course, telling us what remains to be done at home and abroad to get us to that better world by 2030. There are 17 SDGs, including ending poverty and hunger, achieving gender equality, and making sure people are healthy and have access to education, water and energy.
“Now, as we enter the UN decade of delivery, Canada is committed to partnering with the world to reach our goals. Which is why the theme of this year’s IDW is ‘Go for the Goals.’ This IDW is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn what Canada is doing on climate change, gender equality and health at home and abroad, and how they can contribute.
“I encourage you to participate in our partner activities taking place from coast to coast to coast—in person and online. Seek out the Canadians who work and support Canada’s international assistance. Talk to them. Learn their stories. Find out how Canada has helped to change the world over the years, what we are doing today and how we will move forward as we continue to focus on delivering Agenda 2030. I hope it inspires you to get more involved in making the world a better place for everyone. It’s up to all of us to Go for the Goals.”