Canada believes that society is more prosperous, peaceful, secure and united when women’s rights are respected, their voices are heard and they can exercise their leadership. Women’s rights organizations and women’s local movements in developing countries are key agents of change that help strengthen the rights of women and girls, and help societies achieve gender equality.

“Women's voices must be heard in all spheres of society, in Canada as in Haiti. We all need women's leadership to change and build a better world. We will not do it if we leave half of humanity behind.”

- Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie

• In June 2017, Canada launched its new Women’s Voice and Leadership Program as part of its Feminist International Assistance Policy. Canada committed to allocating $150 million over five years to respond to needs of local women’s organizations in developing countries that are working to advance the rights of women and girls, and promote gender equality.

• Today’s announcement highlights the launch of the first project under the Women’s Voice and Leadership Program.

• Canada is now a leading donor in supporting women’s rights organizations in developing countries.

Related Products

• Backgrounder - Canada’s new support to Women’s Voice and Leadership Program in Haiti

Associated Links

• Minister Bibeau to visit Haiti
• Canada’s international assistance in Haiti
• Canada’s new Feminist International Assistance Policy

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