Canada is committed to protecting and advancing gender equality, human rights, and democracy. Creating communities that treat women and girls as equals is one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty and build stronger economies. Inclusive economies open new markets for businesses and strengthen Canada's trade relationships. Gender equality also accelerates other development objectives like social inclusion, good health, quality education, peace and protecting the environment.
Today in Ottawa, to mark International Women's Day, Anita Vandenbeld, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development, on behalf of the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced 20 projects aimed at advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls, in all their diversity, representing a contribution of $193.45 million.
Parliamentary Secretary Vandenbeld also announced Canada's intent to provide $10 million for Equality Fund's upcoming First Response Fund. This fund will provide support to women-led and women's rights organisations who are often best placed to provide timely humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable people affected by crises.
Canada is a long-standing international leader on women's rights, including sexual and reproductive health and rights, and gender equality. Canada works with partners around the world to address the systemic barriers and harmful social norms that prevent women and girls from reaching their full potential at work, at home and as engaged members of their communities. Canada's investments in signature initiatives, such as the Women's Voice and Leadership Program, the Equality Fund and the Alliance for Feminist Movements, have supported more than 3,000 women's rights organization and networks in more than 30 countries and have influenced over 200 discriminatory policies and laws. Canada's contributions have provided relevant, effective support for thousands of women and girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people and their communities.
As set out in its Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada continues to take action on gender equality globally and towards the achievement of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Canada's largest and longest financial commitment in international development assistance represents a 10-Year (2020-2030), 1.4-billion annual investment in the health and rights of women and girls globally.
