Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, and Minister of Democratic Institutions on International Day of Democracy

September 15, 2017 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of Democratic Institutions, today issued the following statement:

“Democracy is central to the development of free, well-governed, pluralistic and prosperous societies. It is what gives citizens the right to vote, the freedom to disagree with elected officials, the ability to hold governments to account and the permission to speak out against injustice.

“As Canadians, we are fortunate to live in a peaceful country that upholds democracy at home and champions democratic values abroad. We continue to protect the integrity of our democratic institutions and processes. We must always be wary of disinformation, and in today’s digital age guard against the cyber threats that can undermine our democracy.

“Internationally, through our new feminist international assistance and foreign policies, Canada continues to advocate for democratic values that foster peace and stability, including human rights, inclusive and accountable governance, the rule of law and freedom and equality for all.

“Peaceful, democratic countries have a vibrant civil society, an independent media and fair and inclusive elections. They have public institutions that are well-functioning and trustworthy, and decision-making processes that welcome the contributions of all citizens, including women and girls, youth, LGBTQ2 persons and marginalized groups.

“On International Day of Democracy, Canada is proud to stand for the protection and pursuit of democratic frameworks that give all citizens the equal right to participate in and help shape the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of their societies.”

Contacts

Adam Austen
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
Adam.Austen@international.gc.ca

Marie-Emmanuelle Cadieux
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
343-203-6238
marie-emmanuelle.cadieux@international.gc.ca

Byrne Furlong
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Democratic Institutions
613-943-1833

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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