October 10, 2023 – Canada’s International Development Minister, Ahmed Hussen, is placing a strong emphasis on implementing a feminist approach to aid funding. In an effort to expedite aid funding and solidify the government’s commitment to a feminist international assistance policy, Hussen aims to address bureaucratic hurdles impeding the implementation of these policies.
Hussen highlighted the importance of including women and girls in society, as it leads to improved economic development, decreased poverty rates, and a reduction in gender-based violence. As the new minister overseeing a $6.5 billion budget for development aid, Hussen’s goal is to create a more prosperous and inclusive world that minimizes security risks not only for Canada but also for its allies.
While Canada, like some of its allies, has reduced foreign aid, Hussen stressed that the government’s efforts go beyond financial contributions, as they remain one of the top funders of development projects. He acknowledged the growing needs in areas such as food security, refugee assistance, and disaster response, committing to maintaining and improving the quality of aid.
Hussen’s main priority is to provide better client service, ensuring timely responses from his department. He plans to reform how Global Affairs Canada funds projects through organizations, simplifying processes for improved efficiency. This reform involves updating databases, adjusting forms and criteria to accommodate smaller organizations abroad that have a significant impact.
To advance progress for women globally, Hussen aims to support and partner with local organizations in developing countries while collaborating with like-minded affluent nations to promote a feminist lens. Efforts include a program focused on women’s voice and leadership to foster partnerships and enhance staff effectiveness.
The long-term objective is to develop enough support from other wealthy countries and empower local organizations to sustain progress on crucial issues like access to abortion, beyond the tenure of the current Canadian government. Hussen emphasized the need to increase funding for grassroots women’s rights organizations, which are instrumental in closing gaps in sexual and reproductive health and rights and preventing sexual and gender-based violence.
Furthermore, Canada plans to publish its third action plan on women, peace, and security, a comprehensive five-year strategy covering domestic policy, diplomatic priorities, and foreign aid arrangements.
In conclusion, Minister Hussen’s focus on expediting aid funding and prioritizing a feminist approach to development aligns with Canada’s commitment to creating a prosperous and inclusive world. Through various reforms and partnerships, Canada seeks to make a long-lasting impact on issues of gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and peace and security.
