Section IV: Supplementary Information (2017 -2018)

Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy

1. Context for the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy

The 2016-2019 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) sets out the Government of Canada’s sustainable development priorities, establishes goals and targets and identifies actions to achieve them, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act.

In keeping with the objectives of the Act to make environmental decision-making more transparent and accountable to Parliament, Global Affairs Canada supports reporting on the implementation of the FSDS and its Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy, or equivalent document, through the activities described in this supplementary information table.

2. Sustainable development in Global Affairs Canada

Global Affairs Canada’s Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy for 2017 to 2020 describes the department’s actions in support of achieving the FSDS goals on Low-Carbon Government and Effective Action on Climate Change. This supplementary information table presents available results for the departmental actions pertinent to these goals. Last year’s supplementary information table is posted on the department’s website.

This year, Global Affairs Canada is also noting which UN Sustainable Development Goal target each departmental action contributes to achieving.

3. Departmental performance by FSDS goal

The following tables provide performance information on departmental actions in support of the FSDS goals listed in section 2.

4. Reporting on integrating sustainable development

During the 2017–18 reporting cycle, Global Affairs Canada considered the environmental effects of proposals subject to the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals as part of its decision-making processes. Through the Strategic Environmental Assessment process, all of these departmental proposals were found to have neutral to positive effects on progress toward achieving the goals and targets of both the 2016–2019 FSDS and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Additional information on the results of Strategic Environmental Assessments is available on the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy and Environmental Assessment of Trade Negotiations web pages.

Details on transfer payment programs of $5 million or more

Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program

Name of transfer payment program: Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program (ACCBP) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: December 9, 2009

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12 (amended); 2015–16 (amended)

Strategic outcome: International Assistance and Poverty Alleviation – Poverty is reduced and security and democracy are increased for those living in countries where Canada engages.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 3.1: International Security and Democratic Development / Sub-program 3.1.1: International Security and Threat Reduction

Description: The ACCBP provides assistance to enhance the capacity of key beneficiary states, government entities and international organizations to prevent and respond to threats posed by international criminal activity, with a global mandate and a focus on the Americas. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

The ACCBP achieved its expected outcomes, as demonstrated by the following results:

Canada’s Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program (ACCBP) delivered approximately $3 million in capacity-building assistance with the Organization of American States (OAS) to respond to regional security threats in the Americas, including the trade in illicit drugs, as well as helping to strengthen maritime port facilities.

The ACCBP is funding initiatives with the RCMP to provide training and expertise to selected Caribbean nations on special investigative techniques to address illicit trafficking and money laundering. The program is also supporting several initiatives with the OAS that are focused on improving the effectiveness of drug-related investigations and law enforcement for drug-related offences.

Canada is supporting a project with United Nations Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNLIREC) to strengthen the national and regional capabilities of selected Caribbean nations to combat illicit firearms trafficking.

Canada funded INTERPOL’s Cybercrime Capacity Building Program in Latin America and the Caribbean to build cybercrime capacity in selected countries. Of the 62 participants trained, 22 were women.  95% of participants identified using the cybercrime investigative skills learned in their training in their daily work, and 91% of countries reported that the project was useful in identifying key legislative gaps in their country to combat cybercrime.

Canada also funded the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Container Control Programme, which is improving the capacity of customs and law enforcement officials in Latin America and the Caribbean to fight organized crime and disrupt the flow of illicit goods, including drugs. The project developed a strategy to increase participation of female officers and has included gender modules in its training program on topics such as stereotypes, discrimination, sexism and sexual harassment. Cocaine seizures were made at several ports in Ecuador (15,387 kg), Brazil (12,081 kg), Panama (8,051 kg), Suriname (2,145 kg), Guatemala (1,927 kg), the Dominican Republic (807 kg), El Salvador (208 kg) and Jamaica (152 kg).

Finally, the construction of the Caribbean Special Tactics Centre (CSTC) in Jamaica, funded by ACCBP, forms part of Canada’s ongoing engagement with the Jamaica Defence Force as it begins to train other Caribbean partners in order to promote regional security.

Comments on variances: The ACCBP was able to program more than 96% of its funding for the year. The remainder was released and reallocated within the Branch to support Departmental priorities.

Audits completed or planned: The ACCBP participates in the department’s recipient audit process for grant and contribution programs, which adopts a risk-based approach to auditing selected recipients. No audits were completed in 2017-18.

Evaluations completed or planned: The ACCBP underwent a summative evaluation in 2014–15, which was approved in 2015–16; the results were published in May 2016. Divisional management action plans are ongoing in response to report recommendations.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The program delivers programming via Government of Canada departments and agencies plus selected multilateral institutions, foreign governments, non-governmental organizations and private entities.

Canada Fund for Local Initiatives

Name of transfer payment program: Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: April 1, 2012

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy and International Agreements / Sub-Program 1.2.1: Bilateral and Regional Diplomacy and Advocacy

Description: The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) is a contribution program delivered through Canadian Embassies and High Commissions that supports small-scale, high-impact projects in developing countries.  The objectives of the program are to contribute to achieving Canada’s thematic priorities for international assistance; to assist in advocating for Canadian values and interests; and to strengthen Canada’s bilateral relations with foreign countries and their civil societies. The program also provides small-scale financing to local organizations to respond to natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.

The CFLI thematic priorities are approved on an annual basis by a Program Management Board. In 2017–18, the thematic priorities were aligned with the action areas of Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy.

Through contribution agreements, the CFLI provides monetary assistance, $24,000 on average, to cover all or a portion of the cost of projects which are largely conceived and designed by local authorities, institutions or organizations.

Results achieved: In 2017–18, the CFLI funded 597 projects in 126 countries and the Palestinian Territories.  A total of $14,752,196 was disbursed to implementing partners. Of these partners, 79.2% were local organizations, reflecting the purpose of the CFLI to respond to locally identified needs.

The following is a regional breakdown of funds:

• In Asia, the CFLI supported 164 projects worth $4,470,574.96 (30.90% of CFLI funds).
• In Africa, the CFLI supported 153 projects worth $3,574,557.41 (24.71% of CFLI funds).
• In the Americas, the CFLI supported 146 projects worth $3,574,853.08 (24.71% of CFLI funds).
• In Europe, Middle East and North Africa, the CFLI supported 134 projects worth $2,847,515.09 (19.68% of CFLI funds).

[Data breakdowns by region and thematic priority represent amounts recorded in CFLI Unit database and not actual expenditures. A discrepancy of $281,220 between the recorded amounts and actual expenditures is being reconciled as final data from missions becomes available.]

In 2017–18, the CFLI programmed across the following thematic priorities:

1. Empowering women and girls and promoting gender equality:  217 projects worth $5,278,734.97 (36.49% of CFLI funds)
2. Championing human rights, inclusive and accountable governance, democracy, peaceful pluralism,   and respect for diversity: 188 projects worth $4,431,225.85 (30.63% of CFLI funds)
3. Promoting action on the environment, including water and climate change: 69 projects worth $1,898,089.57 (13.12% of CFLI funds)
4. Promoting human development specifically in the areas of health, nutrition, and education: 66 projects worth $1,308,144.67 (9.04% of CFLI funds)
5. Supporting inclusive and green economic growth: 31 projects worth $672,972.98 (4.19% of CFLI funds)
6. Promoting peace and security: 11 projects worth $306,276.13 (4.65% of CFLI funds)

In addition to the six thematic areas outlined above, the CFLI disbursed $572,056.37 to support 15 humanitarian projects around the world. As a small-scale, flexible fund, the CFLI was able to support local responses to sudden onset crises, including hurricanes in the Caribbean region and earthquakes in Mexico. Through the CFLI, Canada was also the first foreign country to provide direct humanitarian support to Venezuelan migrants and asylum seekers in Brazil.

Broadly speaking, CFLI projects focused on increasing the capacity, knowledge and awareness of local beneficiaries through the delivery of workshops, skills training sessions, and advocacy campaigns. Other projects involved building small-scale infrastructure, delivering psycho-social support services, providing equipment to support de-mining activities or the economic development of local communities, and conducting research and reporting on thematic issues.

In alignment with Canada’s emphasis on a feminist international agenda and the launch of the Feminist International Assistance Policy in 2017, the largest portion of CFLI programming focused on the theme of women’s empowerment and gender equality. A diverse range of projects addressed issues such as enhancing women’s participation in political processes, combatting child and early forced marriage, and strengthening awareness of sexual and reproductive health rights.

Projects related to the broad theme of human rights, governance, democracy and pluralism accounted for the second-largest number of CFLI projects in 2017–18. Such projects encompassed a wide range of activities including: training women and youth to observe electoral processes, advocating for legislative change to fight corruption, promoting LGBTQ rights through awareness campaigns, and documenting threats to journalistic freedom of expression.

CFLI Program Managers, who are responsible for the administration of the program at 69 Canadian Embassies and High Commissions across the globe, strongly agreed that the CFLI achieved its objectives in 2017–18. In particular, 92% of these officers agreed or strongly agreed that the program increased access to, and influence over, key local decision makers, facilitating Canada’s ability to raise awareness and promote Canada’s values and interests. Another 92% agreed or strongly agreed that CFLI programming led to increased action by local organizations to implement policies and practices that addressed development challenges in their local contexts.

Comments on variances: Since 2012, the CFLI program has had ongoing authority to disburse up to $14.7 million in Vote 10 funds per fiscal year. The CFLI also received $260,000 in 2017–18 from the international assistance investment plan to support increased programming in Canada’s High Commission to Australia and New Zealand. In addition, the Crisis Pool Quick Release Mechanism funds are included in CFLI’s planned spending. The variance between planned spending and actual spending is primarily attributable to the unused portion of funds related to the Crisis Pool Quick Release Mechanism ($19.6 million). The remaining variance ($212,545) was due to end-of-year adjustments to individual CFLI projects and currency fluctuations. Overall, 98.6% of CFLI funds were spent.

Audits completed or planned: The last internal audit of the CFLI was conducted by the Office of the Chief Audit Executive for the fiscal year 2015–16. 

Evaluations completed or planned: No evaluation was completed during the 2017-18 fiscal year. An evaluation of the CFLI covering the 2012–13 and 2013–14 fiscal years was completed in 2015-16. The next CFLI Evaluation is planned for 2020–21.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: By program design, the CFLI is intended to respond to local needs and engage closely with recipients, many of whom are small organizations with modest resources. Applicants are solicited mainly through broad calls for proposals, which clearly identify a contact person who is responsible for responding to queries. Many Canadian high commissions and embassies hold information sessions for interested applicants. Once projects are selected for funding, recipients and mission personnel communicate frequently throughout the implementation and reporting process. Mission personnel often visit project sites to monitor projects. Additionally, recipients may be offered the opportunity to participate in group experience-sharing workshops or training, including on financial reporting and record keeping.

Commonwealth Secretariat

Name of transfer payment program: Commonwealth Secretariat (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: September 28, 1965

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2006–2007

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.2: Summitry and Multilateral Diplomacy and Advocacy / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s assessed contribution to the regular budget of the Commonwealth is a legally binding obligation of membership. The purpose of Canada’s membership is to further the Government of Canada’s foreign policy goals related to international peace, security and development and, to this end, to enhance relationships among the 53 Commonwealth member countries. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved: Greater adherence to Commonwealth values and principles, in particular those enunciated in the Commonwealth Charter;

More effective, efficient and equitable public governance;

Enhanced positive impact of social development;

Youth more integrated into and valued in political and development processes;

More inclusive economic growth and sustainable development; and

Strengthened resilience of small states and vulnerable states.

Comments on variances:

Variances between planned and actual amounts reflect fluctuating exchange rates, as Commonwealth invoices are issued in pounds sterling.

Audits completed or planned:

No audits have been conducted or are planned by Global Affairs Canada. The Commonwealth Secretariat’s Board of Governors, comprising representatives from member states, including Canada, receives an external annual audit report and acts on any opinions therein.

Evaluations completed or planned:

No evaluations have been conducted or are planned by Global Affairs Canada. The Commonwealth Secretariat has just entered into a new Strategic Plan for 2017–18 to 2020–21. No evaluation was scheduled for the 2017–18 fiscal year by the Secretariat.

Engagement of applicants and recipients:

Engagement is ongoing. For more details, visit The Commonwealth.

Counter-Terrorism Capacity Building Program

Name of transfer payment program: Counter-Terrorism Capacity Building Program (CTCBP) (funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: September 2005

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12 (amended); 2015–16 (amended)

Strategic outcome: International Assistance and Poverty Alleviation – Poverty is reduced, and security and democracy are increased for those living in countries where Canada engages.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 3.1: International Security and Democratic Development / Sub-program 3.1.1: International Security and Threat Reduction

Description: The CTCBP provides training, equipment, infrastructure and technical assistance to enhance the capacity of key beneficiary states, government entities and international organizations to prevent and respond to threats posed by terrorist activity.

Results achieved:

The CTCBP achieved its expected outcomes, as demonstrated by the following examples of results:

• Canada’s Counter-Terrorism Capacity Building Program (CTCBP) disburses approximately $9 million annually on projects in Asia. Bilateral and regional projects with key multilateral partners contribute to enhancing community resilience by developing effective narratives to counter violent extremism, improve border management practices through standard document verification procedures and increase connectivity to INTERPOL databases to help detect persons of interest.
• The CTCBP, through the Middle East and North Africa Fund, disburses $14 million annually to the fight against Daesh. Both regional and bilateral programming contribute to a multi-faceted and multi-dimensional approach to reduce violent extremism in communities and prison environments, enhance global aviation security, and increase border security.
• Canadian funding supports programming to counter violent extremism globally, including community-led initiatives such as youth engagement, media and communication campaigns, the promotion of moderate voices, and the prevention of radicalization to violence in detention centres. In addition to supporting front-line service providers, Canada also supported multilateral programming to counter violent extremism with UN agencies. This included the provision of approximately $24 million to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the International Organization for Migration, INTERPOL and the Organization of American States.
• Canada remains one of the top five donors to INTERPOL, supporting 12 active counter-terrorism projects to enhance connectivity to INTERPOL databases in an effort to help detect persons of interest. In its latest iteration of project SUNBIRD in 2017–18, in partnership with police, immigration and maritime authorities from all ASEAN countries, INTERPOL recently screened travellers’ passports at 35 land, air and sea border points against INTERPOL’s databases. Eight million searches were conducted during the operation, resulting in 17 arrests and 110 “hits” on passports recorded in INTERPOL’s stolen and lost databases.
• Canada is currently funding (through international assistance, rather than development assistance) the 1001 Nights: Building Children’s Resilience to Violence project, implemented by Search for Common Ground and Big Bad Boo, which is strengthening the resilience of Tunisian youth to violent narratives by integrating more tolerant and inclusive behaviour through enhanced educational engagement. Since its inception, with over 871 children and 40 teachers in 20 schools, most parents (88 percent) reported noticeable improvements in their children’s attitude, with almost half of the students (44 percent) displaying more acceptance of gender equality between men and women. Teachers also noticed more acts of kindness, such as sharing among children, with fewer unacceptable acts, such as insults and physical confrontation. Intolerance of different religions, races and social statuses has dropped from 34 percent to 22 percent among student participants.

Comments on variances: The CTCBP was able to reallocate funds internally to support priorities. In addition, the program accepted additional funds to support the whole-of-government strategy to combat Daesh, including Department of National Defence projects in the Middle East. As a result, the CTCBP’s actual spending was higher than originally planned.

Audits completed or planned: The CTCBP participates in the department’s recipient audit process for grants and contributions programs, which adopts a risk-based approach to auditing selected recipients.

Evaluations completed or planned: The CTCBP underwent a summative evaluation in 2014–15, which was approved in 2015–16; the results were published in May 2016. Divisional management action plans are ongoing in response to report recommendations.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The CTCBP delivers programming via Government of Canada departments and agencies, selected multilateral institutions, foreign governments, non-governmental organizations and private entities.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Name of transfer payment program: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) (funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: 1945

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s annual assessed contribution to FAO is a legally binding obligation of membership. The purpose of membership is to further the Government of Canada’s foreign policy goals related to agricultural development and to provide Canada with a voice in the international community. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Contributed to the eradication of hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition;
• Increased and improved provision of goods and services from agriculture, forestry and fisheries in a sustainable manner;
• Reduced rural poverty;
• Enabled more inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems;
• Made livelihoods more resilient to threats and crisis.

For further details, please refer to FAO’s latest available Programme Implementation Report, which informs member states about the work carried out and the results achieved by the organization during the 2016–17 biennium.

Comments on variances: Assessed budgets of international organizations are negotiated outcomes, and member states, including Canada, are legally bound by the final outcome of these negotiations. Currency fluctuations are also a factor.

Audits completed or planned: FAO has an external auditor and provides regular audited financial statements.

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

Global Markets Support Program

Name of transfer payment program: Global Markets Support Program (GMSP) (funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: December 11, 2008

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution 

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2008–09 (updated in 2013–14 to add the Foreign Trade Zones – Marketing Program [FTZ-MP] and in 2015–16 to add the CanExport program)

Strategic outcome: International Commercial and Consular Services for Canadians – Canadians are satisfied with commercial and consular services.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 2.1: International Commerce / Sub-program 2.1.1: International Business Development through Promotion of Exports and Trade in Canada and Abroad / Sub-program 2.1.2: Foreign Direct Investment in Canada / Sub-program 2.1.3: International Innovation, Science and Technology

Description: The GMSP harmonizes previously existing programs, a five-year foreign trade zone component and a five-year exports and trade component under one umbrella mechanism comprising the following:

• Invest Canada – Community Initiatives;
• Global Opportunities for Associations;
• Going Global Innovation (GGI);
• Foreign Trade Zones – Marketing Program (FTZ-MP); and
• CanExport.

The objective of the program is to build a stronger and more effective Canadian capacity to compete in the global economy. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved: Overall, results achieved from GMSP-funded activities are contributing to a stronger Canadian capacity to compete in the global economy, as evidenced by questionnaire responses showing that 82 percent of communities report an improved ability to better serve prospective investors, 84 percent of associations report that there are more Canadian companies involved in international business as a result of funded projects, and 63 percent of associations report that the funded projects resulted in foreign sales or contracts. Additionally, questionnaire responses revealed further evidence of ongoing research and development (R&D) collaboration with foreign partners, ongoing generation of foreign direct investment, and the creation or retention of jobs.

CanExport final reports for projects completed in 2017–2018 show that, at the time of completion and as a direct result of the project, over 56 percent of recipients had achieved an intermediate outcome, while another approximately 30 percent had already been able to achieve export sales in a new market (for an initial total of close to $60,000,000 to date for recipients who submitted their final report in fiscal year 2017–2018).

Going Global Innovation (GGI) recipients with projects approved and/or completed in 2017–2018 reported meeting a total of 800 foreign contacts, resulting in 69 signed R&D partnership agreements worth over $23.7 million.

Comments on variances: Projects funded by GMSP pillars are approved based on estimates; however, actual expenditures were lower in some cases. Actual spending for 2017–18 also included outstanding payable year-end payments; therefore, total spending for 2017–18 may be lower than reported in the above table.

Audits completed or planned: CanExport program 2017–18 audit completed.

Evaluations completed or planned: An evaluation was completed in February 2015. It concluded that the results of all sub-programs of the GMSP contributed to Canadian economic growth and prosperity, which can be calculated in the millions of dollars, far in excess of program costs. Note: the new Foreign Trade Zones – Marketing Program (FTZ-MP) and CanExport pillars were beyond the scope of the evaluation, and GGI was inactive at the time of the evaluation.

FTZ was discontinued at the end of fiscal year 2017–18.

A summative evaluation is planned for CanExport for 2018–19.

A formative evaluation is planned for all GMSP for 2019–20.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The GMSP administers an annual recipient questionnaire, allowing recipients to provide direct feedback to program management. Although the questionnaire does not cover CanExport, final reports and annual snapshots are submitted by CanExport recipients to provide feedback and data on the results associated with their individual projects. The GMSP also seeks feedback from applicants and recipients through proactive outreach and through ongoing communications related to program delivery.

Grants and Contributions in Aid of Academic Relations

Name of transfer payment program: Grants and Contributions in Aid of Academic Relations (funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: January 1, 1989

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2015–16

Strategic outcome: International Commercial and Consular Services for Canadians – Canadians are satisfied with commercial and consular services.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 2.1: International Commerce / Sub-program 2.1.1: International Business Development through Promotion of Exports and Trade in Canada and Abroad

Description: These grants and contributions expand international education programs to more effectively and efficiently advance departmental priorities, which include contributing to Canada’s competitiveness in the education sector and promoting democracy, the rule of law and human rights. Recipients are not required to repay grant funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Raised awareness of Canada among future leaders, decision makers and the general public in foreign countries, as measured by:
  • 1,466 applications received and 651 scholarship recipients who studied in Canada and experienced Canada’s models of democratic governance; and
  • 17 senior institutional leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean who visited Canadian universities and colleges and met Canadian academic officials with whom they can create linkages.
• Canada’s knowledge advantage is recognized worldwide and serves to strengthen Canadian interests and economic prosperity, as measured by:
  • 89 collaborative linkages established between foreign and Canadian institutions;
  • 651 scholarship recipients who experienced Canada’s academic excellence; and
  • 495,000 international students who, through their studies and research in Canada, contribute to brain circulation in Canadian industry and academic institutions while in Canada.

Comments on variances: The variance between planned and actual spending in 2017–18 was related to the identification of additional funding from elsewhere in the department that was provided to support approved but unfunded academic relations activities. Most of the funding was originally provided as grants, but since the majority of activities were more applicable to the characteristics of contributions, some grants were converted to contributions.

Audits completed or planned: An internal departmental audit of the International Education Strategy that includes some aspects of Grants and Contributions in Aid of Academic Relations was completed in 2016–17, and corrective measures have been applied based on the findings. There were also six recipient audits in 2017–18. All audits have showed complete compliance with the original agreements.

Evaluations completed or planned: The program is currently being evaluated within the framework of the evaluation of the International Education Strategy.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The following took place in 2017–18: promotion of programs by 55 missions; weekly collaborations with non-governmental organizations; and participation in four education conferences and forums, one study tour, and one collaboration mission involving leaders of international academic institutions from the Americas coming to Canada.

International scholarships news releases - RSS feeds: 31

Alumni newsletters published in 2017–18: 1

International scholarships website statistics:

Visits: 1,841,027 (+39.25 percent)

New visitors: 1,274,886 (+11.76 percent)

Total pages viewed: 4,015,604 (+50.04 percent)

Direct traffic: 775,790 (+220 percent)

Average duration of each visit: 2 minutes, 26 seconds

Average number of pages viewed per visit: 2.18

Grants in Lieu of Taxes on Diplomatic, Consular and International Organizations’ Property in Canada

Name of transfer payment program: Grants in lieu of taxes on diplomatic, consular and international organizations’ property in Canada (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: January 18, 1979

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grant

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 1978–1979

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.1: Bilateral and Regional Diplomacy and Advocacy

Description: The Diplomatic, Consular and International Organizations’ Property Grants Order (P.C. 1979-59, January 18, 1979), the Municipal Grants Act, and successor orders and acts form the statutory basis of this program. The related memorandum of understanding between Global Affairs Canada, Public Services and Procurement Canada, and the National Capital Commission establishes responsibilities and procedures governing the provision of services related to the payment of grants in lieu of real property and frontage or area taxes with respect to diplomatic and consular property. These procedures are designed to ensure fiscal and operational accountability while promoting efficient program delivery.

Results achieved:

Canada’s international commitments have been met, as measured by:

• timely and accurate administration of payments to taxing authorities in Canada with respect to exempt properties owned by foreign states; and
• maintenance and expansion of the most favourable property tax exemption opportunities for Canadian missions abroad.

Comments on variances: The variance between the planned and actual spending is due to lower than anticipated municipal realty taxes. Changes in the volume and entitlement of grants are other factors in the year-end variance.

Audits completed or planned: N/A

Evaluations completed or planned: An evaluation was completed during 2017–18. 

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

International Atomic Energy Agency

Name of transfer payment program: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: December 19, 1989

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s annual assessed contribution to the IAEA is a legally binding obligation of membership. Payment is made to ensure that membership is in good standing and to maintain influence and credibility in a key international body, the aims of which Canada supports. The IAEA is the world’s centre of cooperation in the nuclear field and it works to further the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technology, in particular by verifying that states adhere to their commitments to use nuclear energy only for peaceful purposes. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Effective and efficient implementation of the IAEA’s major programs, as reflected in the Agency’s biennial program and budget;
• Effective participation for Canada in the Agency’s activities through Canada’s leadership as a permanent member on the IAEA Board of Governors and the ongoing participation of Canadian technical experts in IAEA activities;
• Direct and indirect technical and commercial dividends to the Canadian nuclear industry; and
• IAEA actions and decisions consistent with Canadian foreign policy priorities.

Comments on variances: Assessed budgets of international organizations are negotiated outcomes, and Canada is legally bound by the final outcome of these negotiations. Contributions to the IAEA are assessed partially in euros and partially in U.S. dollars. As a result, regular currency fluctuations change the value of these contributions as expressed in Canadian dollars and result in variances between planned and actual spending. Canada must pay its assessed contributions in full, and depending on currency fluctuations this can be more or less than the planned amounts.

Audits completed or planned: The IAEA’s Office of Internal Oversight Services provides functions such as internal audit, program monitoring, program evaluation, inspections, consulting and investigations on an ongoing basis. The IAEA also appoints an external auditor to audit the IAEA’s accounts. The current external auditor is the Audit Board of Indonesia for the Agency’s 2018 financial year.

Canada’s representatives to the IAEA have access to all audit and financial reports produced by the various oversight bodies and presented to the Board of Governors or General Conference. Global Affairs Canada officials are able to review these reports and advocate Canadian issues as required.

Evaluations completed or planned: The IAEA’s Office of Internal Oversight Services conducts ongoing evaluations of IAEA programs and projects. Annual evaluation reports are made available to the Board of Governors each May.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

International Criminal Court

Name of transfer payment program: International Criminal Court (ICC) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: April 1, 2005

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: The ICC is the first permanent, treaty-based, international criminal court established to help end impunity for the perpetrators of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community. The Court’s expenses are funded primarily by assessed contributions from states parties. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Enabled the ICC to carry out investigations and prosecutions—to date, 11 situations are under investigation and 10 are undergoing preliminary examinations. For more information, please visit the Court’s “Situations under Investigation” web page.
• Engaged in outreach to promote accountability for serious international crimes and advance the interests of justice. The Court has created an outreach strategy and published a report for the General Assembly. The Court also reports on its outreach activities on an annual basis to the Assembly of States Parties (ASP). Reports to the ASP are available on the Court’s website.
• Carried on all other activities required and expected of a judicial body functioning in accordance with international standards.
• Carried on all activities in accordance with the Court’s internal and external oversight mechanisms. Internal controls are being maintained by the Court’s Registrar, including through the Office of Internal Audit. The ASP also appointed an external auditor and created the Committee on Budget and Finance for the budgetary and financial review and monitoring of the Court’s resources. The Court’s reports to the ASP contain detailed performance measures and performance indicators for its various activities. All proposed ICC budgets, Committee on Budget and Finance reports, financial statements, external audit reports and resolutions are available on the ICC website.

Comments on variances: The ICC’s annual program budget is approved by the ASP in November of the preceding year. For financial planning purposes, Canada is required to estimate the ICC program budget well in advance of its adoption. Unanticipated events, such as the arrest of an individual on a long-outstanding warrant, can result in significant increases to the Court’s budget. As a result, there is always some variance between the anticipated contribution and the assessed contribution. There may also be currency fluctuations.

Audits completed or planned: N/A

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Canada is an active participant in the ICC’s annual ASP and on the Committee on Budget and Finance. The Embassy of Canada to the Netherlands is in regular direct contact with Court officials and, together with the Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations in New York, participates in working groups dealing with governance and finance issues affecting the Court. Canada, together with the six other largest contributors to the ICC’s budget, continues to press for further budget efficiencies.

International Development Assistance

Name of transfer payment program: International Development Assistance

Start date: 2001–02

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2012–13

Strategic outcome: International Assistance and Poverty Alleviation – Poverty is reduced, and security and democracy are increased for those living in countries where Canada engages.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 3.1: International Security and Democratic Development / Sub-program 3.1.2: Advancing Democracy, Human Rights, Freedom, and the Rule of Law 

Program 3.2: International Development / Sub-program 3.2.1: Sustainable Economic Growth / Sub-program 3.2.2: Children and Youth, including Maternal, Newborn and Child Health / Sub-program 3.2.3: Food Security / Sub-program 3.2.4: Multisector Assistance, Social Development, and Development Engagement 

Program 3.3: International Humanitarian Assistance / Sub-program 3.3.1: Humanitarian Programming / Sub-program 3.3.2: Partners for Humanitarian Assistance

Description: Official development assistance (ODA) activities contribute to poverty reduction, take into account the perspectives of the poor and are consistent with international human rights standards, as per the Official Development Assistance Accountability Act (the Act). ODA may also be provided for the purposes of alleviating the effects of a natural or man-made disaster or other emergency occurring outside Canada. Global Affairs Canada is the lead department responsible for Canada’s ODA. The majority of the department’s international assistance activities meet the requirements of the Act. However, Global Affairs Canada’s transfer payment program does not preclude activities falling outside the scope of the Act. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved: In 2017–18, Global Affairs Canada continued to support Canada’s engagement in developing countries. Canadian development projects focused on achieving results within four thematic sub-programs: Sustainable Economic Growth; Children and Youth, including Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH); Food Security; and Multisector Assistance, Social Development and Development Engagement. In 2017–18, Canada’s humanitarian assistance worked to reduce suffering and save lives in populations experiencing humanitarian crises through its policy dialogue, advocacy and humanitarian programming, including institutional support to key humanitarian partners. Please consult Strategic Outcome 3 of the Departmental Results Report for more information on Global Affairs Canada’s international development programs and performance results.

Comments on variances:

3.1 International Security and Democratic Development: Actual spending was $7.5 million lower than planned spending. The variance is attributable to a transfer of resources within the international development assistance program activities to respond to crisis in Iraq and Syria and the impact on the regions.

3.2 International Development: Actual spending was $272.2 million higher than planned spending. The variance is mainly attributable to funding received through the 2017-18 Supplementary Estimates to support developing countries address the impact of climate change, to support the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, as well as funding received for the International Assistance Envelope to support Canada’s international assistance priorities aligned with the Feminist International Assistance Policy (Budget 2017). These funds were reduced by the transfer to the International Security and Democratic Development Program Activity required for the Peace and Stabilization Operations Program.

3.3 International Humanitarian Assistance: Actual spending was approximately $167 million higher than planned spending. The variance is attributable to funding received to respond to the increased humanitarian needs of people affected by the Rohingya crisis, famine situations (Yemen, Nigeria, South Sudan, Somalia and neighbouring countries) and the drought in the Sahel.

Audits completed or planned:

The following audits were completed during the 2017–18 fiscal year:

• Thematic Evaluation – End of Term Evaluation, Renewed Efforts Against Child Hunger and Undernutrition (REACH)

The following audits were completed during the 2017–18 fiscal year and the 2018–19 fiscal year (July 2017 to June 2018):

• Summative Evaluation of the WHO Rapid Access Expansion Programme

The following audits are being performed during the 2018–19 fiscal year:

• Humanitarian Assistance Audit: launching in 2018–19
• Global Financing Facility; expected completion date is March 2019
• Summative Evaluation of the MNCH Muskoka Initiative and Formative Evaluation of MNCH 2015–2020

Evaluations completed or planned:

The following evaluations were initiated or completed during the 2017-18 fiscal year:

• Evaluation of the Weapons Threat Reduction Program: Completed
• Evaluation of the Canadian Police Arrangement / International Police Peacekeeping Program: Completed 
• Partners for Development Program Evaluation: Completed
• South Sudan Country Program Evaluation: Completed
• Formative Evaluation of Canada’s Development Assistance on Extractives and Sustainable Development: Completed
• Evaluation of Canada’s Participation in the International Organisation of la Francophonie (OIF) between 2009 and 2015 : Completed
• GAVI Alliance Review: Completed
• Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM) Review: Completed
• Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Review: Completed
• United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Review: Completed
• World Bank Review: Completed
• United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Review: Completed
• African Development Bank (AfDB) Review: Completed
• United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Review: Completed
• Evaluation of Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force (START) and the Global Peace and Security Fund: In Progress
• Vietnam Country Program Evaluation: In Progress
• Humanitarian Assistance Evaluation: In Progress (preliminary findings expected December 2018)
• Development Partner Countries (formerly Countries of Modest Presence Evaluation [Africa]): In Progress
• Caribbean Regional Development Program Evaluation: In Progress

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Please refer to Strategic Outcome 3 of the Departmental Results Report 2017–18.

International Financial Institutions

Name of transfer payment program: International Financial Institutions (IFIs) as per the International Development (Financial Institutions) Assistance Act

Start date: N/A

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Other

Type of appropriation: Statutory Authority (Payments to International Financial Institutions – Direct Payments)

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: N/A

Strategic outcome: International Assistance and Poverty Alleviation – Poverty is reduced, and security and democracy are increased for those living in countries where Canada engages.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 3.1: International Security and Democratic Development / Sub-program 3.1.2: Advancing Democracy, Human Rights, Freedom, and the Rule of Law

Program 3.2: International Development / Sub-program 3.2.1: Sustainable Economic Growth / Sub-program 3.2.2: Children and Youth, including Maternal, Newborn and Child Health / Sub-program 3.2.3: Food Security / Sub-program 3.2.4: Multisector Assistance, Social Development, and Development Engagement

Program 3.3: International Humanitarian Assistance / Sub-program 3.3.1: Humanitarian Programming / Sub-program 3.3.2: Partners for Humanitarian Assistance

Description: International financial institutions such as the regional development banks (including the African Development Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the Caribbean Development Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank) provide loans and grants for the long-term development needs of developing member countries. Payments to IFIs are made in accordance with paragraphs 3(a) and 3(c) and section 12 of the International Development (Financial Institutions) Assistance Act. These include direct payment to the institutions to enable the IFIs to finance their concessional funding windows for assistance to the poorest developing countries and the purchase of shares of these institutions to finance non-concessional lending. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved: The multilateral development banks play an important role in advancing sustainable economic growth and fighting poverty. For example, in 2017, Canada’s core contributions to the regional development banks (RDBs) helped build or upgrade 7,100 km of roads in Asia and the Pacific, increasing mobility and connectivity for millions of people in the region’s developing member countries. Canada’s contribution to the Asian Development Bank also helped connect 2,683,000 households to electricity, provide new or improved water supply to 205,000 households and reduce greenhouse gas emission in the region by 4,100,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year.

Canada’s core contribution to the African Development Bank (AfDB) has helped improve access to electricity to 51 percent of the population in Africa. New or improved access to water and sanitation reached 8.3 million people and better access to education benefited 500,000 people, mostly women. AfDB interventions in agriculture have benefited 8.5 million people, of whom 4.1 million are women, and land with improved water management also increased.

Through core contributions to the Caribbean Development Bank, 108,000 people benefited from safer, more rapid transit on account of the 59 km of roads built or upgraded. Investments in education and training resulted in the construction of 243 additional classrooms, benefiting 24,000 students. At the same time, water-related projects enabled 16,000 households to access improved water and sanitation services.

Because of Canada’s contributions to the Inter-American Development Bank, 3.9 million metric tons of annual CO2 emissions are expected to be avoided due to programs and projects approved in 2017, including through the installation of 2,600 megawatts of power generation capacity (100% renewable) in the region.

Comments on variances: The variance can be explained by the in-year increase of 5 percent in payments to the African Development Bank, which was not planned at the beginning of the fiscal year.

Audits completed or planned: The Regional Development Banks (RDB) regularly conduct audits of their programming that are shared with Global Affairs Canada in its capacity as shareholder and member of the governing body of these institutions.

Evaluations completed or planned: All IFIs have independent evaluation units that conduct systematic project and program evaluations, which are published on their websites.

External evaluations by the Multilateral Organisation Performance Assessment Network (MOPAN) were carried out in the period covering up to mid-2017 for the Asian Development Bank.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The recipients of RDB programming are mostly developing country governments, which must request the programming. The RDBs work closely with the governments to ensure that their programming is in line with each government’s development priorities and that project beneficiaries are consulted in the design of the project. All RDBs have in place environment and social safeguard policies to reduce and mitigate negative environmental and social consequences of the projects.

International Labour Organization

Name of transfer payment program: International Labour Organization (ILO) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: The ILO was founded in 1919, and Canada has been a member since inception.

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s annual assessed contribution to the ILO, a UN specialized agency, is a legally binding obligation of membership. The purpose of membership is to further the Government of Canada’s foreign policy goals related to international labour and social policy issues and provide it with a voice in the international community. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Development and effective supervision of international labour standards and realization of fundamental principles and rights at work;
• Targeted action against child labour, giving priority to the urgent elimination of its worst forms;
• Contributions to poverty reduction through promotion of coherent economic and social policies that support employment creation;
• Assistance to constituents in the development of skills and employability policies and programs for decent work;
• Better instruments and tools for policy analysis and formulation that support good governance and the extension of social protections to vulnerable workers; and
• Strengthened social dialogue on labour and social policy issues at the national and international levels.

For detailed information about the ILO’s planning, reporting and results, please see the ILO’s Programme and Budget and the ILO’s Performance Measurement Framework.

Comments on variances: Assessed budgets of international organizations are negotiated outcomes, and member states, including Canada, are legally bound by the final outcome of these negotiations. Currency fluctuations are also a factor.

Audits completed or planned: The ILO has an External Auditor and provides regular audited financial statements.

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

North Atlantic Treaty Organization Civil Administration

Name of transfer payment program: North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Civil Administration (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: January 1, 1989

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution 

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12 (amended)

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda — The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2 Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.2 Summitry and Multilateral Diplomacy and Advocacy / Sub-Program 1.2.3 Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s annual assessed contribution to NATO flows from its membership in NATO under the 1949 North Atlantic Treaty. Canada’s contribution furthers its foreign policy goals by funding the administrative budget of NATO, an international organization vital to Canadian defence and security interests. NATO was designed to promote the stability of the North Atlantic area and to safeguard the freedom and security of its people by political and military means, based on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and international law. NATO accounts are subject to annual audit by the International Board of Auditors (IBAN) for NATO. Since September 1, 2014, and through a voluntary national contribution, Canada has a representative on the IBAN for a four-year period. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Effective decision-making by the Alliance in pursuit of NATO’s objectives of stability and security in the North Atlantic region in the context of a rapidly changing international security environment in Eastern Europe and the Middle East and North Africa region as measured by, for example, implementation of NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence and Projecting Stability initiatives, including in the context of the NATO Summit in Brussels in 2018;
• Linked to above, direct support to prime ministerial and ministerial engagement in NATO decision-making processes (e.g. summits, ministerial meetings);
• Support to NATO operations as measured by progress with respect to ongoing NATO operations and missions, including in Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, Kosovo, Afghanistan and elsewhere;
• Enhanced relations with NATO partners and cooperation with other international organizations, as measured by political and practical cooperation with partners and the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing those relationships;
• Appropriate response to current and emerging defence and security challenges, as measured by, for example, ongoing progress on NATO cyber defence and by ensuring that NATO is able to defend its own networks against cyber threats;
• Proper management of the Alliance’s resources, as measured by ongoing reform and transformation initiatives, which include increasing NATO’s transparency and accountability and ensuring appropriate value for money; and
• Construction of the new NATO headquarters building was completed in 2018.

Comments on variances: Exchange rate fluctuations continue to have a significant impact on the actual spending versus the planned spending. Also, the 2017-18 actual spending was higher than expected due to changes in the NATO Civil Budget.

Audits completed or planned:

Audits Completed in 2017–18: The following elements are funded in whole or in part by the NATO Civil Budget and were completed in 2017–18.

Financial and Compliance Audits:

• NATO Defined Benefit Pension Scheme
• NATO Defined Contribution Pension Scheme
• NATO Provident Fund
• NATO Staff Centre
• Retirees Medical Claims Fund

The following elements are funded in whole or in part by the NATO Civil Budget and were “in progress” during fiscal year 2017–18.

Financial and Compliance Audits:

• International Staff
• New NATO HQ

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

Name of transfer payment program: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: March 20, 1975

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12 (amended)

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: The mission of the OECD is to promote policies that will improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world. The OECD works with governments to understand what drives economic, social and environmental change, measures productivity and global flows of trade and investment, analyzes and compares data to predict future trends, and sets international standards on a wide range of areas, from agriculture and tax to the safety of chemicals.

The OECD’s planning, budgeting and management are all organized on an output-based system. Outputs are tracked by the Secretariat and are assessed for quality and impact by member countries in the Programme Implementation Report (PIR). The member country assessments in the PIR are further considered by national delegates to OECD committees and by the Secretariat with a view to improving performance and setting priorities in the subsequent biennial program of work. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• The OECD completed the review of its more than 300 instruments, of which some 40 were eliminated and 100 others updated. The review also enabled the development of best practices on the development of international standards, which were shared with other international organizations with a view to better coordination and complementarity of standards and avoidance of duplication.
• Work on the prevention of base erosion and profit shifting was effectively pursued, with a focus on international approaches to the taxation of the digital economy and expanded international engagement to more than 150 countries.
• The OECD work programs and policy positions that were developed reflected Canadian input from across the Canadian government and supported priorities in areas such as progressive trade; productivity and inclusive growth; innovation; skills and jobs; migration; digitalization; foreign investment; anti-corruption; climate change policies and climate financing; gender; and development assistance and innovation in development financing.
• The OECD survey of Canada’s environment policies was completed and released, while a number of surveys were launched during the year for completion during the next fiscal year, covering Canada’s international development assistance, gender governance, structural and fiscal policies, and public sector innovation.
• Canada continued to influence policy development among OECD members and non-members with particular emphasis on social policies, growth that works for all, gender equality, clean energy, and productivity and innovation, with Canada chairing the G7, the preparation for the OECD’s ministerial meeting on social policies (May 2018) and the Global Forum on Productivity (June 2018), and the newly created Friends of Gender Equality + group to mainstream gender-based analysis across the OECD.
• With Canada as chair, members agreed to the Framework for the Consideration of Prospective Members, which sets out criteria and a process to guide the enlargement of the organization. Work continued on the accession processes of Colombia, Costa Rica and Lithuania. Canada contributed to the Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Programme as co-chair of the steering committee and continued to support the Southeast Asia Regional Programme with the report on women’s economic empowerment through small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region.
• A formal mandate and procedures were adopted for the Evaluation Committee (with Canada as chair), including the responsibility for “fostering a culture of evaluation” in the organization. Full audit reports were provided to members as of this year, and summaries were made available on the organization’s website. Plans were under way for the creation of an ethics officer position and for the conduct of an independent external evaluation of the organization.

Comments on variances: Planned amounts are based on the previous year’s assessed contribution, increased by a small amount to reflect inflation in France (the OECD is based in Paris), and are calculated in euros. Canada’s share of the OECD’s budget changes annually, as it is based on a formula that takes into account a country’s three-year average GDP and population statistics. Variances also occur because the exchange rate for the euro fluctuates and because the end of the fiscal year differs from the due date for the assessed contributions.

Audits completed or planned: Financial audits are performed annually by external auditors, and the reports are reviewed by members through the Audit Committee, the Budget Committee and the Council. Performance audits are performed annually by both internal and external auditors; the reports are reviewed by the Audit Committee and subsequently provided to members. Executive summaries are available on the OECD website. For more information, see OECD Internal Audit and Evaluation. 

Evaluations completed or planned: Evaluations of OECD committees are performed annually, based on a five-year cycle, by internal evaluators, and the reports are reviewed by members through both the Evaluation Committee and the Executive Committee. For more information, see OECD Internal Audit and Evaluation.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

Organisation internationale de la Francophonie

Name of transfer payment program: Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: March 9, 1972

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution 

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda — The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2 Diplomacy, Advocacy and International Agreements / Sub-Program 1.2.3 Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s assessed contribution to the regular budget of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) is a legally binding obligation of membership. The purpose of Canada’s membership is to promote Canadian values (e.g. cultural and linguistic diversity, democracy, human rights, gender equality, and good governance) and interests; to further the Government of Canada’s foreign policy objectives related to international peace, security, development and prosperity; and to enhance relationships among the 84 La Francophonie states and governments. The OIF is not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Greater respect for the values and principles of La Francophonie: The OIF continued to implement its four-year programming, which consists of 26 programs, with the goal of supporting its four main missions (Mission A: Promote the French language and cultural and linguistic diversity; Mission B: Promote peace, democracy and human rights; Mission C: Support education, training, higher education and research; Mission D: Develop cooperation to ensure sustainable development). For example, in the context of its training and employment program for youth, the OIF estimates that it has helped over 150,000 Francophone youth directly and indirectly, primarily due to the multiplier effect of training teachers in the areas of skills-based approach and results-based management.
• Since 2015, and in the context of its support for democratic governance, the OIF has carried out more than 40 assessment missions, audit missions and missions to support the consolidation of election files (for example, in Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, Madagascar, Niger, Guinea, Haiti, Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo). Between December 11 and 15, 2017, the OIF sent an election assessment mission to Niamey, Niger, to assess the expectations and needs of the election management bodies. More specifically, the goal was to identify the areas in which La Francophonie could increase its support to strengthen democracy and the rule of law in this country.
• Global governance that is more efficient, effective and fair: By implementing its program on negotiations and international decisions in the areas of the economy, the environment and sustainable development, the OIF is helping improve multilateralism, global governance and multilingualism, especially in the context of international negotiations in the areas of the economy, the environment and sustainable development. In its annual progress report on programming, the OIF indicated that, between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2017, this program allowed 1,881 people, including many officials from developing countries that are members of La Francophonie, to improve their knowledge and mastery of tools relating to negotiations and international decisions in the areas of the economy, the environment and sustainable development.
• Improving the inclusion and empowerment of women and youth in processes relating to policies and development: In November 2017, the OIF and Romania jointly organized the Conference of Francophone Women. The event brought together 700 participants from all over La Francophonie and focused on promoting gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. The conference was an opportunity to launch the Francophone women entrepreneur network (REFEF), which aims to create a space where women entrepreneurs can exchange ideas, interact and share information. This was an important step in the implementation of the Francophonie strategy for promoting gender equality and promoting the rights and empowerment of women and girls. This strategy will be adopted at the Yerevan Summit in October 2018.
• More inclusive economic growth and sustainable development: Four out of the OIF’s 26 programs aim to improve the access of girls and boys to quality education and training to help them in their future as workers and citizens. For example, between July 2016 and June 2017, in the context of its program on the Francophone initiative for long-distance teacher training, the OIF helped strengthen the skills of over 18,400 teachers and tutors. This joint initiative between the OIF and the University Agency of La Francophonie (AUF) is currently being implemented in 11 countries (Haiti, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Lebanon, Mali, Niger, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Chad, Togo and the Democratic Republic of Congo).
• In the context of the OIF’s program to promote employment through entrepreneurship among women and youth in Francophone sub-Saharan Africa (to which Canada made a significant contribution of $10 M for 2015–2018), the OIF is working together with about 40 business incubators in 13 countries in Francophone sub-Saharan Africa (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Guinea, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Senegal and Togo). The goal is to strengthen the entrepreneurial skills of women and youth in these countries. Between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2017, the program helped raise awareness about entrepreneurship among, and provided support to, 11,500 women and youth project applicants and entrepreneurs. It also helped the countries involved to implement an institutional, legal and financial framework conducive to the creation and/or development of businesses by women and youth.
• Continuation of the cooperation activities and programs undertaken by the organization, as measured according to the performance indicators and criteria for tracking and reporting, established in accordance with the approved terms and conditions: The OIF is incorporating results-based management into its overall programming. In its annual programming report for 2015–2018, the OIF presented the results for each program, using up to five indicators to measure the impact of the programs based on their objectives.

Comments on variances: Spending for 2017–18 represents part of the amount anticipated to be paid to the OIF in 2017 and part of the amount to be paid in 2018. The actual spending amount represents the payments made in 2017–18, which consist of the second and final portion of Canada’s statutory payment to the OIF for 2017 and the first portion of the statutory payment to the OIF for 2018. Another factor explaining the difference between planned and actual spending is the difference in the exchange rate at the time the planned amount in euros was calculated in Canadian dollars and the time payments were actually made. In addition, between 2015 and 2018, assessed contributions have been rising annually by 1.5%.

Audits completed or planned: No audits have been conducted or were planned by Global Affairs Canada in 2017–18. The OIF has an external auditor that presents the audit reports every year; the report for 2017 was the last to be released. In 2014–15, Canada assisted the OIF in strengthening the internal audit function.

Evaluations completed or planned: The final report of the Evaluation of Canada’s Participation in the OIF between 2009 and 2015 has been presented to the Performance Measurement and Evaluation Committee. Its current status is complete but not yet approved. This evaluation is consistent with the 2009 Treasury Board Policy on Evaluation and with the Financial Administration Act.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Every year, the administrator of the OIF presents a review of the organization and its programming activities to the OIF’s members. Programming achievements for 2017–18 will be presented in fall 2018 as part of the OIF’s annual report on progress for its 2015–18 programming.

Organization of American States

Name of transfer payment program: Organization of American States (OAS) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: May 31, 1990

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: The OAS was established in order to achieve among its member states an order of peace and justice, to promote their solidarity, to strengthen their collaboration, and to defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. The OAS is composed of 35 member states of the Americas and constitutes the main political, juridical and social governmental forum in the hemisphere. In addition, it has granted permanent observer status to 69 states, as well as to the European Union. The OAS effectively implements its objectives using an approach based on the following four pillars: democracy, human rights, security and development. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Strengthening of the OAS as the key political forum through which Canada promotes its hemispheric interests, as measured by the relevance of resolutions and initiatives adopted, the level of support for Canadian initiatives and proposals, the degree of alignment of OAS resolutions and initiatives with the goals of Canada’s engagement in the Americas, and the opportunity to influence key partners in the Americas;
• Promotion and consolidation of democracy, and strengthening of human rights, governance and the rule of law, as measured by the relevance of resolutions and initiatives with respect to people’s participation, domestic policies, resource level and cooperation (i.e. capacity building, best practices and legal matters), as well as reports and statistics on implementation by the OAS;
• Enhanced regional multilateral cooperation on security issues in the Americas, as measured by the relevance of resolutions and initiatives with respect to domestic policies, resource level and cooperation (i.e. capacity building, best practices and legal matters), as well as reports and statistics on implementation by the OAS, including on Canadian-funded projects executed in partnership with the OAS; and
• Increased effectiveness and efficiency of the OAS through improved accountability and transparency, as measured by the degree of implementation of the reform agenda mandated by resolutions and decisions by OAS member states, as presented in reports.

The Terms and Conditions governing this transfer payment do not specify the performance measures and indicators. The OAS’s Office of the Inspector General and Board of External Auditors monitor the OAS’s financial, operational and administrative operations and ensure observance of and compliance with policies, rules and practices established by the General Secretariat. Reports are produced and approved annually.

Comments on variances: The variance is attributed to Canada’s regular fund quota assessment for the year and to U.S. dollar exchange rates at the time of payment. Canada’s regular fund quota assessment was 9.801 percent of the OAS regular budget for the 2017 and 2018 calendar years.

Audits completed or planned: N/A

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Canada maintains a Permanent Mission to the OAS, headed by an ambassador and permanent representative to the OAS, in Washington, D.C.

Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe

Name of transfer payment program: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: January 1, 1993

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–18

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s annual assessed contribution to the OSCE is an obligation arising from its membership in the world’s largest regional security organization, with 57 participating states from North America, Europe and Eurasia. Canada’s contribution furthers its foreign policy goals related to human rights, fundamental freedoms, democratization, fragile states, conflict prevention, crisis management, mediation, post-conflict development and arms control. This is achieved through funding for OSCE operations; Permanent Council meetings and working groups; policy conferences and expert workshops; and on-the-ground mediation, social betterment and capacity-building programs implemented by the OSCE Secretariat, autonomous institutions and field missions.

Canada’s OSCE contributions also include payments made to administer and implement two legally binding conventional arms control regimes to which Canada is state party—the Treaty on Open Skies (for which Canada is a treaty co-depository, together with Hungary) and the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe—as well as the politically binding Vienna Document. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Effective and timely implementation of the decisions of the OSCE Permanent Council as well as the Ministerial Council, as measured by the organization’s successful work and progress on such issues of importance to Canada as human rights; election monitoring; democracy building; good governance; tolerance and non-discrimination; safeguarding fundamental freedoms; combatting human trafficking; counter-terrorism and extremism; and enhanced engagement with key OSCE partners;
• Continuous monitoring of the security situation in Europe, as measured by the OSCE’s regular reporting and early warning function provided by the organization’s Conflict Prevention Centre, its specialized institutions and its field operations, including the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine. In this regard, the OSCE’s work and engagement in the region’s conflicts (e.g. Ukraine, Nagorno-Karabakh, Moldova-Transnistria and Georgia’s secessionist regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia) contribute to promoting dialogue and lowering tensions;
• Concerted programming to actively contribute to conflict prevention, conflict resolution and post-conflict institution building, as measured by the successful implementation of the Permanent Council and the ministerial decisions that strengthen the OSCE’s conflict prevention toolkit, especially in the key areas of early warning and mediation. In addition, the Transnational Threats Department consolidates and coordinates the OSCE’s work on counter-terrorism, border security, policing and anti-trafficking; and
• Proper management of the organization’s resources, as measured by the audits of the OSCE’s financial statements and by the renewed efforts of the OSCE Secretary General to enhance the organization’s accountability and transparency.

Comments on variances: The OSCE budget is assessed in euros and per calendar year. The variance of $621,008 is due to (1) contributions assessed in 2018 to fund long-range unmanned aerial vehicles for the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine, plans for which were not in place at the time of the Government of Canada’s fiscal planning exercises for 2017–18; and (2) significant variations in the exchange rate between the Canadian dollar and the euro.

Audits completed or planned: The OSCE’s accounts are subject to an annual report by external auditors, as well as an internal oversight annual report, both of which are made available to participating states. An independent audit committee also provides additional assessment by overseeing the work of both internal and external auditors. The OSCE financial report and financial statements for the 2017 calendar year, as reviewed by the external auditor, will be available on the OSCE website when completed.

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

Pan-American Health Organization

Name of transfer payment program: Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: July 2008

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2013–14

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Objective: Comply with Canada’s obligation, as a member state of PAHO, to provide funding for the Organization to advance its public health work in the Americas. The program enables Canada to protect the health of Canadians by advancing global and regional health and foreign policy priorities, and by contributing to the security of the Americas region.

Intervention methods: Membership in PAHO enables Canada to: (1) protect the health of Canadians; (2) advance Canada’s health priorities through effective and timely management of health emergencies and outbreaks in the region; (3) collaborate on the development of guidelines and sharing of health information and public health intelligence; and (4) build capacity in the Americas region to uphold international norms and standards through comparative policy analysis, collaboration and sharing of best practices.

Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved: Protected the health of Canadians by contributing to the security of the Americas region;

Canada’s influence and interests in the Americas region—with respect to policies, good governance, transparency and accountability—were advanced; and

Canadian-based values related to health, as well as successes on key policies such as universal health coverage, were disseminated.

Comments on variances: Canada’s annual assessed contribution for PAHO is calculated in U.S. dollars and disbursed in Canadian funds. Variances between planned and actual spending are related to fluctuating currency exchange rates.

Audits completed or planned: N/A

Evaluations completed or planned: Last completed evaluation: 2013–14

Next planned evaluation: 2018–19

Engagement of applicants and recipients: As a member of PAHO, Canada sits on the Directing Council as a voting member, thereby influencing the direction of PAHO’s work, as well as the use of its budgets.

Peace and Stabilization Operations Program

Name of transfer payment program: Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: 2016

End date: Ongoing policy authority and funding. Renewed funding authorities beyond March 31, 2019, subject to Treasury Board approval.

Type of transfer payment: Grants and contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017–2018

Strategic outcomes: International Assistance and Poverty Alleviation — Poverty is reduced, and security and democracy are increased for those living in countries where Canada engages.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 3.1: International Security and Democratic Development / Sub-Program 3.1.1: International Security and Threat Reduction

Description: The Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs) is the Government of Canada’s platform for conflict prevention, stabilization and peace-building. It engages in fragile and conflict-affected states, leveraging resources of and partnerships with multilateral institutions and like-minded nations. It conducts its work through policy expertise, support to multilateral institutions, programming and deployments. Until spring 2018, PSOPs had three lines of work:

1. Provide policy leadership and advocacy, to contribute a strong Canadian voice that can influence and shape dialogue and collective action among allies and partners, particularly at the UN, in areas of Canadian interests, and to enhance collective action on conflict and state fragility;
2. Deliver effective, whole-of-government coordination and policy coherence to ensure that various conflict and crisis responses across the Government of Canada are rapidly implemented and mutually reinforcing when addressing complex political crises and catastrophic natural disasters abroad in order to maximize the impact of Canadian responses; and
3. Provide visible and concrete assistance in response to conflicts and crises abroad through targeted programming, the deployment of Canadian police officers (in partnership with Public Safety Canada and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police) and civilian personnel, and direct support to the UN and multilateral peace operations, conflict prevention, mediation, and peace-building efforts. As of spring 2018, the responsibility for the whole-of government coordination of natural disasters was transferred to Global Affairs Canada’s International Humanitarian Bureau. In view of this structural change, the 2017–2018 fiscal year is the last year in which PSOPs reports results related to coordination of natural disasters.

Results achieved:

In 2017–18, PSOPs, in cooperation with its many partners, advanced the rule of law, access to justice, and more transparent and accountable public institutions that support peace and effective security systems in fragile and conflict-affected states, including Afghanistan, Colombia, Haiti, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Mali and the Sahel region, Myanmar, Syria and Ukraine. Canada’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (2017–22) puts women and girls at the centre of efforts to prevent and resolve conflict because the empowerment of women and girls is one of the most effective approaches for Canada to reduce poverty and build a more inclusive, peaceful and prosperous world. Moreover, the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations was launched at the 2017 Vancouver Peacekeeping Defence Ministerial. It is an innovative pilot project that aims to catalyze transformational change in increasing women’s meaningful participation in United Nations peace operations in uniformed military and police roles. 

Improved prevention of, stabilization during, and recovery from conflicts and crises for beneficiaries in states where Canada engages.

• Based on the 2018 Fragile State Index and the 2018 Global Peace Index, 17 out of 40 countries and territories that benefited from PSOPs programming in the 2017–18 fiscal year maintained or improved their levels of peace and stability compared to the previous year. The results of the 2018 Global Peace Index found that the global level of peace has deteriorated by 0.27 percent in 2017, marking the fourth successive year of deteriorations. This is the highest number of countries to deteriorate in peacefulness in a single year since the 2010 GPI. The Fragile States Index notes that despite significant fragility and instability in many different parts of the world, most countries continue to show some improvement. However, it recognizes that a country can still be fragile and yet improving.

Improved responses by the Government of Canada to conflicts, crises and natural disasters in states where Canada engages.

• The PSOPs Natural Disaster Response Division reported that in the 2017–18 fiscal year, the Government of Canada’s Standard Operating Procedures in Response to Natural Disasters Abroad were followed to a satisfactory extent (3.5 on a 5-point scale), with the majority of stakeholders understanding their importance in the effective overall coordination of Canada’s response. The division coordinated multiple whole-of-government responses for significant and simultaneous natural disasters abroad in 2017, including hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Jose and Maria, and two earthquakes in Mexico.

PSOPs-specific data on indicators related to enhanced collective action by partners in Canadian priority areas related to conflicts, crises and natural disasters were not available for the 2017–18 fiscal year. However, PSOPs contributes to the results achieved under Program 1.2, which are reflected in the 2017–18 Departmental Results Report.

Comments on variances: PSOPs successfully programmed and disbursed its transfer payment funding allotment. The variances in spending are largely due to government commitments above the Program’s existing funding, such as commitments to Global Affairs Canada’s Middle East Strategy and providing support to the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces.

Audits completed or planned: PSOPs did not require an audit during the 2017–18 fiscal year.

Evaluations completed or planned: No evaluation was completed during the 2017–18 fiscal year. In accordance with the rolling five-year evaluation plan, an evaluation of PSOPs will be conducted in 2020–2021.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: In 2017, PSOPs received 86 initial project applications and approved 63 new initiatives.

PSOPs project officers conducted 38 scoping and monitoring missions to Iraq, Ukraine, Haiti, Myanmar, Mali, Colombia, Philippines and South Sudan, to name a few. The objective of these missions was to meet with relevant domestic and international organizations and government officials to discuss potential projects and to monitor ongoing project performance.

Missions included consultations with multilateral organizations, government officials and civil society actors. A total of 34 out of 38 (89 percent) of missions included meetings with women’s groups and, where possible, women’s ministries.

Five scoping and monitoring missions were conducted specifically in support of the Canadian Police Arrangement and included meetings with relevant domestic and international organizations and government officials, including women’s groups. These missions covered countries such as Ukraine and Iraq, as well as the UN Headquarters in New York, and involved meetings with UN Women and the UN Police Division.

Projects and Development Activities Resulting from La Francophonie Summits

Name of transfer payment program: Projects and development activities resulting from La Francophonie summits (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: March 9, 1979

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda — The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2 Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-Program 1.2.3 Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: This program provides funding to cooperation programs and activities undertaken by the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF). It also provides financial support to the Government of New Brunswick to foster its participation in summits, ministerial conferences and other related La Francophonie activities. This program promotes Canadian interests and is consistent with Canada’s political and economic objectives for La Francophonie.

Results achieved:

• The OIF is active in all the areas identified in the contribution agreement as measured by a Performance Management Strategy, which requires that financial reports be submitted to Global Affairs Canada before settlements to the OIF are initiated. Reports are also presented at the annual Francophonie Ministerial Conference, at the OIF’s Administration and Finance Commission, and at the Permanent Council of La Francophonie.
• The Government of New Brunswick has played an active role in all significant OIF activities as described in the memorandum of understanding on Canada’s financial contribution for the participation of New Brunswick at La Francophonie. New Brunswick submitted a narrative report to Canada as well as a certified financial report on expenses made by New Brunswick during fiscal year 2017–18, as agreed in the memorandum of understanding signed in 2017.

Comments on variances: Since fiscal year 2012–13, this program provides $7.5 million in voluntary funding to the OIF and its institutions and $0.8 million in financial support to the Government of New Brunswick, for a total of $8.3 million. Since the funding for this program is fixed at $8 million, it receives $0.3 million annually in supplementary funding from other Global Affairs Canada funds, as illustrated in the ‘’actual spending’’ column for 2015-16.  

In 2017–18, this supplementary funding of $0.3 million was not fully required since the OIF and its institutions received only part of their funding ($7,402,500 of Canada’s planned $7.5 million voluntary contribution). The voluntary contribution that the OIF and its institutions receive is based on their implementation rate over the fiscal year. Due to these circumstances, the actual spending for 2017–18 amounted to $8,202,000 instead of $8.3 million.

Audits completed or planned: No audits have been conducted nor were planned by Global Affairs Canada in 2017–18. The OIF has an external auditor that presents audit reports every year. The report for 2017 has been released. In 2014–15, Canada assisted the OIF in strengthening its internal audit function.

Evaluations completed or planned: The final report of the Evaluation of Canada’s Participation in the OIF between 2009 and 2015 has been presented to the Performance Measurement and Evaluation Committee. Its current status is complete but not yet approved. This evaluation is consistent with the 2009 Treasury Board Policy on Evaluation and with the Financial Administration Act.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Every year, the Administrator of the OIF presents a review of the organization and its programming activities to its members. Programming achievements for 2017–18 will be presented in fall 2018 as part of the OIF’s 2018 Progress Report on programming. OIF members have access to the 2017 Progress Report on programming.

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

Name of transfer payment program: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: UNESCO was founded in 1945, and Canada has been a member since inception.

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s annual assessed contribution to UNESCO is a legally binding obligation of membership. The purpose of membership is to further the Government of Canada’s foreign policy goals related to culture, science and education and provide it with a voice in the international community. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Progress in the implementation of the Education 2030 Agenda by focusing on sector-wide policy and planning, literacy, teachers and skills development for the world of work;
• Reduction of gender disparities in primary and secondary education in member states, and strengthening of global commitment to education for girls and women;
• Strengthening of education system responses to contemporary challenges with emphasis on universal values based on peace, mutual understanding and respect for human dignity, and education for sustainable development, including education for disaster preparedness;
• Implementation of the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions;
• Implementation of the International Convention against Doping in Sport;
• Protection of cultural and natural heritage through the implementation of UNESCO’s culture conventions, in particular the World Heritage Convention and the 1970 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property;
• Establishment of effective early warning systems for tsunamis;
• Improved management of the planet’s water resources through increased scientific cooperation;
• Development of free, independent and pluralistic media, and civic participation;
• Freedom of expression, freedom of information and freedom of the press more broadly integrated into policies in member states; and
• Protection and digitalization of the world’s documentary heritage.

UNESCO’s program and budget, which set out the strategic objectives and expected outcomes for the organization’s work, are approved every two years by the UNESCO General Conference. For further information, visit the UNESCO website.

Comments on variances: Assessed budgets of international organizations are negotiated outcomes, and member states, including Canada, are legally bound by the final outcome of these negotiations. Currency fluctuations are also a factor.

Audits completed or planned: UNESCO has an external auditor and provides regular audited financial statements. For more information, consult UNESCO’s audit and evaluation reports.

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

United Nations Organization    

Name of transfer payment program: United Nations Organization (UN) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: The UN was established in 1945, and Canada has been a member since inception.

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution 

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s assessed contribution to the regular budget of the United Nations is a legally binding obligation of membership. The purpose of membership is to further the Government of Canada’s foreign policy goals related to international peace, security and development and provide it with a voice in the international community. Assessed contributions are used to finance the organization’s programs to attain the UN’s objectives, as set out in its Charter. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Promotion of international peace and security;
• Progress toward achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development;
• Promotion and protection of human rights;
• Effective coordination of humanitarian assistance efforts;
• Promotion of justice and international law;
• Progress toward disarmament;
• International cooperation for drug control, crime prevention and combatting international terrorism;
• The UN Secretary-General has laid out a number of ambitious reform proposals to make the Organization more effective, flexible and accountable. In the annual Report of the Secretary-General on the work of the Organization (2017), UN Secretary-General António Guterres provides a candid view of the world today and a vision of how to transform the Organization to better deliver on its mandate.

The UN’s program and budget, which set out the strategic objectives and expected outcomes for the organization’s work, are approved every two years by the UN General Assembly. For further information, please visit the website of the UN.

Comments on variances: Assessed budgets of international organizations are negotiated outcomes, and member states, including Canada, are legally bound by the final outcome of these negotiations. Currency fluctuations are also a factor.

Audits completed or planned: The United Nations Board of Auditors (UNBOA) was established in 1946. For more than 70 years the heads of the supreme audit institutions from the UN member states have provided independent, professional and quality audit services. The current UNBOA members are Germany, India and Tanzania. For more information, please see the UN Board of Auditors’ Reports.

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

United Nations Peacekeeping Operations

Name of transfer payment program: United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: The UN was established in 1945, and Canada has been a member since inception.

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: United Nations peacekeeping operations help countries torn by conflict create the conditions for lasting peace. In addition to maintaining peace and security, peacekeepers are increasingly charged with assisting in political processes, reforming judicial systems, training law enforcement and police forces, disarming and reintegrating former combatants, and supporting the return of internally displaced persons and refugees. Canada’s assessed contribution to UN peacekeeping operations is a legally binding obligation of membership. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Enhanced peace and security for the countries and regions concerned;
• Contributed to increased levels of security, protection of civilians, support to humanitarian activities, basic services and governance provided in affected areas, promoting advanced prospects for peace, as well as enabling reconstruction and development activities; and
• Maintained multilateral relationships with key UN organizations and bilateral relationships with key allies and other troop-contributing countries.

Comments on variances: The assessed budgets for UN peacekeeping operations are negotiated outcomes of the UN’s Fifth Committee, and member states, including Canada, are legally bound by the final outcome of these negotiations. The creation of new missions and unexpected crisis situations can significantly alter the budgets. Currency fluctuations are also a factor.

Audits completed or planned: The audit examination conducted by the UN Board of Auditors included UN Headquarters, 15 active field missions, 31 completed missions and the six special-purpose accounts, namely, the Peacekeeping Reserve Fund, the support account for peacekeeping operations, the United Nations Logistics Base at Brindisi, Italy, including the Global Service Centre, the peacekeeping cost recovery fund and the employee benefits funds. For more information, please see the UN Board of Auditors’ Report.

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

Weapons Threat Reduction Program

Name of transfer payment program: Weapons Threat Reduction Program (formerly Global Partnership Program)

Start date: April 1, 2018

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2018–19 (amended)

Strategic outcome: International Assistance and Poverty Alleviation — Poverty is reduced, and security and democracy are increased for those living in countries where Canada engages.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 3.1: International Security and Democratic Development / Sub-Program 3.1.1: International Security and Threat Reduction

Description: The Weapons Threat Reduction Program (WTRP), which was established in 2002, is part of a suite of complementary security and stabilization programs at Global Affairs Canada. The program aims to prevent, detect and respond to a range of threats posed by weapons and materials of mass destruction by, inter alia, securing and destroying dangerous chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) materials; protecting and/or enhancing vulnerable physical infrastructure; strengthening global networks and supporting international initiatives such as the Nuclear Security Summit process and Global Health Security Agenda; and building partner capacity to meet international obligations set out in UN Security Council Resolution 1540 against weapons of mass destruction proliferation.

The WTRP has five priority areas:

1. nuclear/radiological security;
2. biological security;
3. chemical weapons;
4. UN Security Council Resolution 1540 implementation; and
5. a newly added capacity to provide financial support to international treaties in the area of conventional weapons, including landmines, cluster munitions, and small arms and light weapons. Since 2002, the WTRP has delivered more than $1.3 billion in weapons threat reduction projects. In 2018, the WTRP was renewed on an ongoing basis with ongoing funding levels consistent with those of the previous mandate (approximately $73.4 million per year).

Results achieved:

• Reduced threats to Canadians and the global population from weapons of mass destruction and/or CBRN-related materials, including 30 incidents interdicted or interrupted by intermediaries over the past year in which Global Affairs Canada has engaged;
• Partner states, organizations and global networks have strengthened responses to preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction;
• Reduced access to CBRN-related materials by non-state actors and states of proliferation concern, including 37 new UN resolutions and/or adherences to non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament instruments by states of proliferation concern addressing recommendations linked to verification and other programming activities funded by Global Affairs Canada; and
• Improved legal and policy instruments and frameworks of partner states that meet international security and threat-reduction standards and best practices, including 21 newly ratified security-related, anti-crime, counterterrorism or weapons of mass destruction policy frameworks, action plans and legal instruments that are compliant with international standards and best practices.

Comments on variances:

The WTRP transferred approximately $1.2 million to other security programming divisions that were experiencing funding gaps in order for them to implement their specific mandates.

Audits completed or planned:

The WTRP participates in the department’s recipient audit process for grants and contributions programs, which adopts a risk-based approach to auditing selected recipients.

Evaluations completed or planned: The WTRP underwent a formative evaluation in FY 2014–15, for which a report was approved in FY 2015–16 and a summative evaluation in FY 2017–18. The results for the former were published in 2016, and the latter in 2018. The evaluations found a continuing need for the program to address significant ongoing threats from weapons of mass destruction proliferation in the areas of CBRN security, as well as the need for longer-term planning and better reporting on results. These recommendations are being addressed.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: The WTRP engages continuously with the 31 active-member Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction to identify global needs and, as current Chair, conducts matchmaking linkages between potential donors and recipients. The WTRP also engages with relevant multilateral institutions (e.g. International Atomic Energy Agency, World Health Organization, Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, INTERPOL, UN) to identify and engage potential partners. In addition, the WTRP uses the Government of Canada’s global network of missions to identify potential project initiatives and undertakes targeted outreach and assessment missions to countries identified through its regular priority-setting exercise. The WTRP also engages with other government departments in implementing projects as appropriate, whether it be as technical expertise or as project implementer.

World Health Organization

Name of transfer payment program: World Health Organization (WHO) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: WHO was established in 1948, and Canada has been a member since inception.

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2011–12

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: Canada’s annual assessed contribution to WHO is a legally binding obligation of membership. The purpose of membership is to further the Government of Canada’s foreign policy goals related to health and provide it with a voice in the international community. For further information, please visit the WHO website. Recipients are not required to repay funds obtained under this transfer payment program.

Results achieved:

• Enhanced global health security through:
  • operationalization of a unified WHO emergency program;
  • establishment of a global health emergency network;
  • contribution toward International Health Regulations (2005) (IHRs) core capacities and improvements to the IHRs; and
  • support for the implementation of the Contingency Fund for Emergencies.
• Accelerated progress toward achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by:
  • reducing maternal mortality;
  • improving child survival;
  • addressing the global burden of non-communicable diseases and their main risk factors;
  • promoting health environments; and
  • increasing access to essential medicines.
• Promotion of health equity by:
  • strengthening health systems to reach the poorest and most vulnerable.
• Strengthened global norms and standards in health by:
  • developing, implementing and monitoring global norms and standards; and
  • promoting safety of food, water, and medical products and devices.
• Continued progress to implement WHO institutional reform by:
  • demonstrating leadership in the multilateral system by serving as one of the 34 members of the WHO Executive Board (2015–18), which provides advice and support to the World Health Assembly and supports the implementation of its decisions and policies; and
  • supporting ongoing efforts to enhance organizational efficiency, effectiveness and transparency.

WHO’s program budget, which sets out the strategic objectives and expected outcomes for the organization’s work, is approved every two years by the World Health Assembly. For additional details on results and plans, please consult WHO’s website.

Comments on variances:

Assessed budgets of international organizations are negotiated outcomes, and member states, including Canada, are legally bound by the final outcome of these negotiations. Currency fluctuations are also a factor.

Audits completed or planned: WHO has an external auditor and provides regular audited financial reports.

Evaluations completed or planned: N/A

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

World Trade Organization

Name of transfer payment program: World Trade Organization (WTO) (program funding approved by vote in Parliament)

Start date: January 1, 1995

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2009–2010

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Links to the organization’s programs: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements / Sub-program 1.2.3: Assessed Contributions to International Organizations

Description: The WTO is a cornerstone of Canada’s trade policy, providing a common set of rules, rights and obligations for the trade policies of its 164 members and a forum for Canada to advance its trade interests on the broadest possible basis. The WTO provides Canada with the opportunity to build alliances, influence rules and secure concessions on issues where it may otherwise have less leverage. Issues such as agriculture subsidies and regulatory concerns (e.g. sanitary and phytosanitary measures and technical barriers to trade) are more effectively addressed multilaterally. The WTO also has a robust dispute settlement system, of which Canada is a regular user and which is of increasing importance given global trade tensions. Through the ongoing work of its many committees, the WTO provides a forum for Canada to raise and resolve a range of trade irritants and market access issues. Finally, the WTO is also an active forum for trade policy monitoring and surveillance.

The Doha Development Agenda (DDA), which is the name of the most recent round of WTO negotiations, was launched in 2001. Negotiations have been effectively stalled since 2008, with WTO members disagreeing on whether the DDA mandates remain a relevant and viable basis from which to advance multilateral negotiations. Canada nevertheless remains committed to finding ways forward on outstanding Doha-round issues, including disciplines on support provided to domestic agricultural producers and following up on the ministerial direction at the 11th WTO Ministerial Conference in December 2017 to engage constructively in fisheries subsidies negotiations and adopt an agreement on disciplining such subsidies by the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference.

With multilateral negotiations at a standstill, Canada is working with like-minded partners in plurilateral settings to advance discussions on issues that are relevant to 21st-century economies and stakeholders, including e-commerce; integrating micro, small and medium-sized enterprises into international trade; and enhancing women’s economic empowerment.

Results achieved:

• As a trade-dependent country, Canada has been actively involved in all areas of WTO negotiations:
  • Canada’s key interests are protecting the integrity of the WTO agreements and institutions, including its domestic settlement system; pursuing a number of remaining Doha-round issues, particularly domestic support for agriculture; and ensuring that the WTO remains relevant to the realities of 21st-century economies, including, for example, by delivering outcomes in negotiations on contemporary economic issues such as electronic commerce; advancing women’s economic empowerment; and enhancing the integration of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises into international trade.
  • While the broader DDA negotiations are at an impasse, Canada continues to work with other WTO members to find constructive ways to advance discussions on issues facing the global trading system, including those outlined above. Progress in these areas will be measured by WTO reports (including committee reports), reports of the plurilateral groups, and the success Canada and its like-minded partners achieve in strengthening and safeguarding the WTO.
  • Implementation of the outcomes of the 10th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC10) and the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) will continue to build confidence among WTO members and could form a constructive basis for advancing future negotiations.
• Continued work with WTO members to advance discussions on issues facing the global trading system:
  • WTO members have begun to consider possible ways to safeguard and strengthen the multilateral trading system. Canada intends to play a leadership role in convening and leading discussions amongst a group of like-minded WTO members aimed at identifying possible pragmatic and realistic proposals to achieve this objective.
• Participation in accession negotiations and reviews on WTO members:
  • Canada participates in the accession negotiations for all countries seeking to join the WTO, demonstrated through the number of new accessions to the WTO. Canada also participates in the review of the trade policies of each WTO member, in addition to preparing for its own review (every four years).
• Participation in the WTO dispute settlement system:
• Canada is one of the most active participants in the WTO dispute settlement system, as measured by the number of disputes in which Canada is a participant as either a direct or intervening party. The WTO’s dispute settlement system is the world’s pre-eminent body for discussing and resolving international trade disputes. Canada is also an active participant in efforts to review the Dispute Settlement Understanding. With the viability of the dispute settlement system under threat, Canada is working with like-minded partners to safeguard and strengthen the system.
• The governance mechanisms of international organizations include oversight services. Global Affairs Canada will rely upon these oversight regimes to assist in monitoring the WTO’s accountability for achieving objectives agreed to by its members and for stewardship of its funds, which are contributed by member states, including Canada.

Canada, as a member of the WTO, also has access to all audits, evaluations and performance reviews completed by or on behalf of the WTO.

Comments on variances: Canada’s contribution to the WTO budget is based on its share of world trade and is calculated and paid in Swiss francs. Planned spending was based on the best information available at the time. The actual spending represents the precise amount of the contribution that was calculated in late 2017 and converted into Canadian dollars at the time payment was made. Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the period when the estimate is prepared and the period when payment is disbursed account for the variance.

Audits completed or planned: The WTO is subject to an audit by external auditors every calendar year. As a member of the WTO, Canada has access to all audits, evaluations and performance reviews completed by or on behalf of the WTO. In its performance audit report released on June 15, 2018, the external auditor certified that the WTO’s financial statements fairly present the financial situation of the WTO as of December 31, 2017, and placed an unqualified opinion on these statements.

Evaluations completed or planned: The WTO’s external auditors conduct a performance audit of the WTO, which is based on standards set by the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions. The 2017 performance audit was released on June 15, 2018.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: N/A

Horizontal Initiatives – Canada’s 2018 G7 Presidency

Name of horizontal initiative: Canada’s 2018 G7 Presidency

Lead department: Global Affairs Canada (GAC)

Federal partner departments: Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canadian Security Intelligence Service, Canada Border Services Agency, Public Services and Procurement Canada, Shared Services Canada, Health Canada, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Public Health Agency of Canada, Finance Canada, National Defence, Canadian Armed Forces, Transport Canada, Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.

Non-federal and non-governmental partners: Not applicable

Start date of the horizontal initiative: April 1, 2017

End date of the horizontal initiative: March 31, 2019

Description of the horizontal initiative: Canada holds the rotating presidency of the G7 from January 1 until December 31, 2018. On June 8–9, 2018, in La Malbaie, in the Charlevoix region of Quebec, Canada hosted the G7 Leaders’ Summit to build consensus on today’s most challenging global issues. Global Affairs Canada is the lead department in organizing the G7 Leaders’ Summit, ministerial meetings, and associated meetings and events in collaboration with multiple departments and agencies. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police is the lead for security operations.

Governance structures: Canada’s G7 Presidency governance structure is led by the Deputy Minister for the G7 Summit and Personal Representative of the Prime Minister, who has the overall responsibility and accountability for managing the 2018 G7 Presidency. He is supported by various interdepartmental committees on the planning and coordination of all G7 Presidency–related activities—Leaders’ Summit, ministerial meetings, and associated meetings and events. These include the following:

• Ad hoc 2018 G7 Committee of Deputy Ministers, which ensures stewardship and financial oversight as well as interdepartmental coordination and coherence on Canada’s G7 agenda, priority themes, organization, communications and outreach.
• Summits Management Office (SMO) Executive Council, which focuses on logistical and operational requirements for Summit events; chaired by the SMO Assistant Deputy Minister, with RCMP participation.
• Operations Committee, which supports the SMO Executive Council by coordinating operations to optimize logistic requirements and support efficiency; chaired by the SMO directors general and includes the participation of Health Canada, National Defence,  Shared Services Canada,  Public Services and Procurement Canada and the RCMP.
• Interdepartmental directors general meetings on the G7, which work directly on policy development and outreach.
• Interdepartmental Thematic Task Teams, which develop, coordinate and integrate Canada’s G7 policy development into potential G7 initiatives.

Government-wide working groups support efforts to achieve efficiencies in specific operational areas such as Accommodations, Safety and Security, Technology, Communications Network, Justice, and Procurement.

Total federal funding allocated (from start to end date) (dollars): $577,386,532

Total federal planned spending to date (dollars): $223,245,854

Total federal actual spending to date (dollars): $117,417,235

Date of last renewal of the horizontal initiative: Not applicable

Total federal funding allocated at the last renewal, and source of funding (dollars): Not applicable

Additional federal funding received after the last renewal (dollars): Not applicable

Funding contributed by non-federal and non-governmental partners: Not applicable

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation: An evaluation of Major Events and Summitry is tentatively scheduled at Global Affairs Canada in 2019–20.

Shared outcome of federal partners:

The shared outcomes of this horizontal initiative are as follows:

Policy and Summitry

• All participants (Canadians and foreigners) are satisfied with the organization of the Summit and other associated G7 meetings and events and with the policy development efforts, which aim to advance global security and prosperity and promote Canadian interests and values.

Safe and Secure Summit

• The general public, heads of state and government and all other participants are kept safe and secure during the G7 Summit.

Performance indicators:

Policy and Summitry

• Percentage of participants—Prime Minister, federal partners, participants and other stakeholders—who are satisfied with Canada’s G7 Summit and other associated meetings and events.
• Percentage of participants—Prime Minister, federal partners, G7 counterparts and other stakeholders—who are satisfied with the Canadian G7 Presidency policy development efforts.

Safe and Secure Summit

• Number of critical issues encountered in the implementation of the security measures by the Security Plan.
• Percentage of security measures, implemented in reaction to incidents, that are successful in negating and/or mitigating these incidents over the course of the G7 Summit.

Targets:

Policy and Summitry

• 80–100 percent of the G7 membership, G7 participants, federal partners, stakeholders and Canadians are satisfied with the policy development efforts.
• No major incidents occurred in which summitry preparations failed or negatively affected the conduct of the G7 Summit.

Safe and Secure Summit

• No critical issues.
• 100 percent of security measures:
  • Ensure protocols are established to deal with any possible major incident.
  • Ensure readiness to implement established protocols in the event of an emergency.

Data source and frequency of monitoring and reporting: As there are multiple federal partners involved in the G7 Presidency and numerous events taking place over a two-year timeframe, the related monitoring and reporting activities are ongoing. Each department is responsible for monitoring and reporting its results, which will later be analyzed in a broader perspective to determine the attainment of indicators for the shared outcome. The final report evaluating the success of Canada’s 2018 G7 Presidency will be drafted in 2019–20, following the completion of all related events.

Results: Since the major event of Canada’s G7 Presidency, the Leaders’ Summit, took place in fiscal year 2018–19, it is not possible to report on significant results in fiscal year 2017–18. Planning and reporting are ongoing and remain on track.

Expected outcome or result of non-federal and non-governmental partners: Not applicable

Name of theme: Not applicable

Performance highlights: As the core mandate was delivered in 2018–19, it is too early to evaluate the performance of federal partners based on the indicators and targets set out. However, the planning and preparations are moving along according to schedule, and the supporting events delivered to date have been held without any significant incidents or issues.

Contact information:

Sophie Bainbridge, Executive Director – Corporate Services
Summits Management Office
Global Affairs Canada
125 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, Ontario  K1A 0G2

Internal Audits

Internal audit engagements completed in 2017-18

To read the available reports, please consult Internal Audits.

Evaluations

Evaluations completed, or planned to be completed, in 2017-18

Response to Parliamentary Committees and External Audits

Response to Parliamentary Committees

1. House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE): Seventh Report — A Coherent and Effective Approach to Canada’s Sanctions Regimes: Sergei Magnitsky and Beyond (Report adopted by the Committee on March 21, 2017; report presented to the House of Commons on April 6, 2017; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on July 19, 2017).
   • This report draws from the Committee’s mandated legislative review of the Special Economic Measures Act and the Freezing Assets of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act.
   • The report makes 13 recommendations based on testimony from government officials, academics, experts, and stakeholders. The report recommends that the government ensure that sanctions are imposed in a complementary and coherent manner; implement UN Security Council decisions by amending, enacting or repealing regulations under the UN Act; properly resource those responsible for sanctions administration; provide comprehensive public guidance to the public and private sectors to maximize compliance; produce and maintain a list of all individuals and entities targeted by Canadian sanctions; transfer responsibility for the issuance of permits under the Special Economic Measures Act and the United Nations Act to the section of Global Affairs Canada responsible for the Export and Import Permits Act; ensure that law enforcement institutions prioritize the enforcement of sanctions and are given the necessary resources to do so; amend the Special Economic Measures Act and Freezing Assets of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act to allow for transparent and fair challenges to listings; provide a rationale for the listing and delisting of persons under the Special Economic Measures Act; amend the Special Economic Measures Act to require the tabling of an annual report by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of all orders made pursuant to the Act; require a mandatory legislative review of the Special Economic Measures Act and Freezing Assets of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act by a parliamentary committee within five years; expand the scope under which sanctions measures can be enacted, including in cases of gross human rights violations; and amend the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to designate all individuals listed by regulations under the Special Economic Measures Act as inadmissible to Canada.
   • The Canadian government’s response was in the form of a letter, commending the committee for its work and reiterating its support for Bill S-226, which would implement several of the committee’s recommendations. The response committed to having Global Affairs Canada and other implicated departments examine the issues more closely.
   • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 7 — A Coherent and Effective Approach to Canada’s Sanctions Regimes: Sergei Magnitsky and Beyond and Government Response.
2. House of Commons Standing Committee on International Trade (CIIT): Sixth Report — The Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement: Benefits and Challenges for Canadians (Report adopted by the Committee on March 9, 2017; report presented to the House of Commons on April 10, 2017; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on July 19, 2017).
   • This report draws from a study on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) public consultation and its primary objective is to assess the extent to which ratification of the TPP would be in the best interest of Canadians.
   • The report makes fourteen recommendations based on witness testimony from stakeholders and the general public across Canada. The report recommends that the government actively pursue a trade and investment agreement with TPP signatories, as well as additional trade and investment agreements in the Asia-Pacific region; continue to involve provincial and territorial governments as it pursues negotiations for trade and investment agreements with TPP signatories; seek to resume negotiations with Japan for an economic partnership agreement; ensure that any trade and investment agreement in the Asia-Pacific region include, as core elements, inclusive and enforceable progressive provisions in relation to the environment, health, labour and human rights, subject to gender-based assessment; undertake public consultations regarding the negotiation of any trade and investment agreement in the Asia-Pacific region; integrate commitments made at the Paris Climate Change Conference in 2015; engage with the Canadian public to convey and discuss the benefits—for Canada and the country’s economic prosperity—of an open economy and international trade; develop a communications plan to publicize the provisions and benefits of any future agreement with TPP signatories or other Asia-Pacific countries; take action to ensure that Canadian infrastructure that facilitates trade is adequate and meets the needs of Canadian businesses that engage in international trade. In addition, it recommends that the government support Canadian businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, by taking the following three actions: providing training to businesses that are seeking to export; increasing the visibility of services and tools available to these businesses; and exploring the concept of a “one-stop shop” where these businesses can access trade-related resources. Furthermore, when negotiating future trade and investment agreements, the Government of Canada must vigorously defend Canada’s supply-managed sectors; identify non-tariff barriers that inhibit fair access to TPP markets; and evaluate the impact of trade and investment agreements on Canadian workers, businesses and sectors. These evaluations should inform the development of future progressive trade and investment agreements and, prior to the ratification of a trade and investment agreement, report any expected economic, labour, environmental, social and other outcomes in relation to that agreement.
   • The Canadian government’s response supports the report’s recommendations, noting that the government shares the committee’s commitment to ensuring trade agreements are in the best interests of regions and stakeholders across Canada.
   • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 6 — The Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement: Benefits and Challenges for Canadians and Government Response.
3. The Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (AEFA): Thirteenth Report — A Turning Point in Canada–Argentina Relations (The Committee tabled its report on June 1, 2017; the Senate adopted the report October 18, 2017; Government Response presented to the Senate on February 27, 2018).
   • The report makes seven recommendations based on witness testimony from stakeholders and the general public across Canada. The report recommends that the Government of Canada develop and update relevant bilateral and multilateral policies and frameworks, including the Strategy for the Americas and the Global Markets Action Plan, to reflect Argentina’s changed priorities and to accommodate emerging regional trends; and expand its commitment with Argentina and share its expertise on clean technology and renewable energy, notably regarding solar, wind and hydro power. Canada and Argentina should also exchange ideas about incentives to improve conservation practices and partners to develop a communication strategy on energy efficiency for Argentinian consumers and industry. In light of opportunities in the mining sector generally as well as in the oil and gas industry specifically, the Government of Canada should create partnerships with Argentina that are based on the provision of relevant support services. In addition to increasing investment and sharing technology and technical know-how, partnerships that share expertise with respect to regulatory frameworks and federal–provincial relations should also be encouraged. The report also recommends that the Government of Canada capitalize on the recently launched initiative between the Mining Association of Canada and Cámara Argentina de Empresarios Mineros to support joint projects that promote corporate social responsibility more widely across the South American region and industries; Export Development Canada undertake an immediate review of the service levels it provides to Canadian companies interested in the Argentinian market; the Government of Canada together with the appropriate institutions and levels of government examine opportunities for a scholarship program that facilitates student exchanges between Canada and Argentina; the Government of Canada offer assistance to Argentina as it examines options to reframe its federal–provincial framework and investigates new fiscal equalization formulas.
   • The Canadian government’s response supports the report’s recommendations, noting that the government has carried out a robust reengagement strategy with Argentina since the election of President Macri.
   • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 13 — A Turning Point in Canada—Argentina Relations and Government Response.
4. House of Commons Subcommittee on International Human Rights (SDIR) of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE): Eighth Report — The Day After: Planning for the Protection of Religious and Ethnic Minorities in a Post-Daesh Iraq (Report adopted by the Committee on April 4, 2017; report presented to the House of Commons on April 10, 2017; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on July 19, 2017).
   • This report, which draws from a study on the human rights situation of the Yezidis, Christians and other religious and ethnic minorities in Syria and Iraq, has the primary objectives of articulating the context in which Daesh grew, describing the local context in which post-Daesh reconstruction will take place, and conveying recommendations in respect of future stabilization activities aimed at re-forming communities and providing physical and political security.
   • The report makes five recommendations based on witness testimony from stakeholders in Canada and abroad. The report recommends that the government be mindful of measures for immediate action to protect the most vulnerable; work to establish local consensus regarding protection and security for religious and ethnic minorities; prioritize the identification of groups that may be at risk of future violence and develop post-conflict strategies; support the capacity of judicial bodies to prosecute guilty parties under criminal offences; and work towards the prevention of future atrocities and human rights violations against Iraq’s ethnic and religious minorities.
   • The Canadian government’s response supports the report’s recommendations, noting that the Committee’s recommendations are consistent with the four pillars in Canada’s “Strategy for Support to the Coalition Against Daesh and Broader Engagement in Iraq, Syria, Jordan and Lebanon”.
   • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 8— The Day After: Planning for the Protection of Religious and Ethnic Minorities in a Post-Daesh Iraq and Government Response.
5. Subcommittee on International Human Rights (SDIR) of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE): Eleventh Report — Scorched Earth: Responding to Conflict, Human Rights Violations and Manmade Humanitarian Catastrophe in South Sudan (Report adopted by the Committee on June 13, 2017; report presented to the House of Commons on June 14, 2017; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on October 6, 2017).
   • This report sought to study the human rights situation in South Sudan by hearing from various international organizations as well as representatives from Global Affairs Canada.
   • The report made nine recommendations based on witness testimony. The report recommends that the government condemn human rights violations committed by all parties to the conflict in South Sudan; support the investigation of possible war crimes in South Sudan and closely monitor the violence being perpetrated for signs of potential escalation to genocide; develop and implement, in consultation and coordination with its international partners, a strategy to secure uninterrupted access for aid and development workers; support the mandate of the United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan to deliver humanitarian assistance; promote the expeditious and effective deployment of the Regional Protection Force to join the United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan; continue to work with its international partners and the mission of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in South Sudan, and should call upon United Nations member states to make and fulfill commitments to increased and longer-term funding for refugee protection across the region; prioritize accountability in its role as a member of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission; engage with the Government of South Sudan to ensure that its National Dialogue does not supplant the establishment of accountability measures envisioned by the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan; update and expand its targeted sanctions applied to senior leaders in the South Sudanese conflict and apply an embargo on the sale of arms to South Sudan as soon as possible, while calling upon like-minded states to do the same.
   • The Government’s Response agrees with the majority of the report’s recommendations, structuring the responses in three groups: recommendations relating to bilateral engagement with the Government of South Sudan; engagement in multilateral organizations; and Canada’s contributions to human rights monitoring efforts. Of the recommendations, it took Recommendation 5 (promoting the deployment of the Regional Protection Force) and 9 (targeted sanctions) under advisement.
   • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 11—Scorched Earth: Responding to Conflict, Human Rights Violations and Manmade Humanitarian Catastrophe in South Sudan and Government Response.
6. House of Commons Standing Committee on International Trade (CIIT): Seventh Report — The Canadian Steel Industry’s Ability to Compete Internationally (Report adopted by the Committee on June 8, 2017; report presented to the House of Commons on June 15, 2017; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on October 17, 2017).
   • The report draws from a study on the Canadian steel industry’s ability to compete internationally, and has the primary objective of assessing the extent to which the Canadian steel industry has the ability to compete internationally.
   • The report makes eight recommendations based on witness testimony from stakeholders. The report recommends that the government participate in discussions and initiatives of international organizations that want to find solutions to global excess steelmaking capacity; increase the visibility of trade remedy services and tools available to Canadian companies; work with its closest trading partners to ensure that those countries and Canada have adequate and effective trade remedy systems in place and that Canada does not become a foreign dumping ground for steel; reserve the right to use methods other than prices on the exporting country’s market to establish the dumping margin when foreign countries cannot prove that they are operating under market economy conditions; consider the consequences of dumping and countervailing subsidies for all regions in Canada in steel import investigations and that it study the impact of the imposition of regional rather than national anti-dumping or countervailing duties; assist Canadian steel producers in benefiting from the low carbon footprint of Canadian steel compared to foreign steel; preserve and advance fair trade by continuing to treat China as a non-market economy; and grant labour unions an expanded role in Canada’s trade remedy system.  
   • The Canadian government’s response supports the report’s recommendations, noting that the government shares the committee’s commitment to ensuring the success of Canadian steel companies competing abroad.
   • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 7 — The Canadian Steel Industry’s Ability to Compete Internationally and Government Response.
7. Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (AEFA): Sixteenth Report — The Deepening Crisis in Venezuela: Canadian and Regional Stakes (The committee tabled its report July 20, 2017; the Report was adopted by the Senate on October 26, 2017; Government Response presented to the Senate on March 15, 2018).
   • The report makes eleven recommendations based on witness testimony from stakeholders and the general public across Canada. The report states that Canada, as “a country of the Americas” has tremendous stakes in a favourable outcome to the Venezuelan crisis. Moreover, its deepening network of ties with key countries in the region, its profile in the Organization of American States and its commitment to the promotion of democratic values, the rule of law and human rights offer a number of opportunities for Canada to play a leadership role in the Hemisphere. The report recommends that the Government of Canada undertake a leadership role in addressing Venezuela’s humanitarian crisis and ensuring that humanitarian assistance is delivered to those most in need. The Committee urges the Government of Canada to continue supporting projects from the Canadian embassy’s Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives that focus on capacity building of Venezuelan non-governmental organizations engaged in health and social welfare. The report also recommends that the Government of Canada prioritize regional efforts to engage with President Maduro with the aim of allowing, in the near future, a humanitarian needs assessment mission to be carried out by recognized international humanitarian groups, as well as to ensure the full, safe and unhindered access of humanitarian personnel and humanitarian assistance in accordance with international standards. It suggests that the Canadian government strengthen its support of international organizations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and the relevant United Nations specialized agencies, that are prepared to offer humanitarian assistance to Venezuela on the invitation of its government; Venezuela’s government and opposition leaders, as well as all regional and international stakeholders, undertake meaningful and constructive measures that fundamentally improve the political, economic and humanitarian conditions in the country; President Maduro exercise the full authority of his office in a positive manner that respects the rights and responsibilities of Venezuela’s citizens, in particular its elected representatives and judicial officers; all parties in the crisis respect Venezuela’s political institutions and fulfill the country’s international commitments related to democratic processes, the rule of law, and respect for human rights; refrain from using violence and politicizing democratic and legal processes; the Government of Canada leverage its network of bilateral and regional ties within the framework of the Organization of American States and other institutions; parliamentarians in the Senate of Canada and the House of Commons consider a joint initiative that promotes confidence building and mediation among the key stakeholders in the Venezuelan crisis.
   • The Canadian government’s response welcomed the report’s recommendations, and responded along three themes: increased pressure on Maduro; support for the Venezuelan population; and contribution to meaningful negotiations.
   • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 16 — The Deepening Crisis in Venezuela: Canadian and Regional Stakes and Government Response.
8. House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE): Thirteenth Report — Strengthening Canadian engagement in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (Report adopted by the Committee on November 7, 2017; report presented to the House of Commons on November 22, 2017; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on March 19, 2018).
   • The report is informed partly by the committee’s visit to Poland, Latvia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan in January 2017. The objective of this visit was to gather first-hand information for the committee’s study of Canada’s engagement in Eastern Europe and Central Asia 25 years after the end of the Cold War. Following this fact-finding mission, the committee held six meetings in Ottawa to supplement its findings.
   • The report makes ten recommendations aimed at strengthening Canada’s engagement in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and specifically with Poland, Latvia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan. The report recommends that the government continue its sanctions against Russian and post-annexation Crimean officials; continue to support multilateral efforts, including through the OSCE, NATO, the UN and other international organizations, to bring about a resolution to Russia’s military invasion and illegal annexation of Crimean territory; continue to ensure that Canadian international assistance to Ukraine benefits the most vulnerable populations in the country. In addition, the Government of Canada should work with its allies in Eastern Europe, Central Asia and elsewhere to improve collective defence mechanisms against cyber-attacks; remain committed to demonstrating leadership on security issues by ongoing deployments through Operation REASSURANCE; work with the Canadian business community to engage with government officials, civil society and business leaders in all countries that were adversely affected by Soviet occupation; build on existing multilateral and bilateral efforts that support the enhancement of democratic values, good governance, participatory democracy, the rule of law, and social inclusion of marginalized groups such as women, the LGBTI community, and indigenous populations; work with the Canadian business community to support and promote commercial opportunities in Eastern Europe and Central Asia; consider measures to improve the efficiency of the visa application process without compromising considerations related to Canadian security and national priorities; and engage with Eastern European and Central Asian governments on youth-oriented partnership frameworks.
   • The Canadian government’s response supports the majority of the report’s recommendations, many of which are consistent with Canada’s current approaches.
   • To read the full report and the response from the Government of Canada, please consult: Report 13 — Strengthening Canadian engagement in Eastern Europe and Central Asia and the Government Response.
9. House of Commons Standing Committee on National Defence (NDDN): Eighth Report — Canada’s Support to Ukraine in Crisis and Armed Conflict (Report adopted by the Committee on December 6, 2017; report presented to the House of Commons on December 11, 2017; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on March 28, 2018).
   • The introduction in the report notes that the crisis in Ukraine has been of concern to NDDN for some time, which is why the committee decided to undertake a study on the subject. Between September 23 and 26, 2017, some Committee members travelled to Ukraine in order to gain a better understanding of the situation on the ground and to assess what more Canada could do to assist Ukraine militarily.
   • The report makes seventeen recommendations aimed primarily at strengthening Canada’s military assistance to Ukraine and determining how that could be strengthened in the near future. The report recommends that the government continue to provide strong military training to the Ukrainian Armed Forces and that it look for opportunities to expand the type of training and support provided by the Canadian Armed Forces through Operation UNIFIER; strengthen Canada’s contribution to military, police, justice, and anti-corruption training beyond the expiration of current funding agreements; facilitate stronger parliament-to-parliament relations including possible assistance in the development of anti-corruption mechanisms, institutions, and training as requested by Ukrainian officials; increase Canada’s contribution to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine; advocate for a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Ukraine that respects its territorial integrity; expand Canada’s support for gender equality promotion through the Canadian Development Program in Ukraine; provide lethal weapons to Ukraine to protect its sovereignty from Russian aggression; add Ukraine to the Automatic Firearms Country Control List; reinstate the practice of providing RADARSAT-2 Imagery; engage in the exchange of intelligence sharing capabilities with Ukraine; encourage the collaboration between Ukrainian and Canadian defence industries; commit to supporting Ukraine in its resistance to hybrid warfare attacks, specifically with regard to cyber-attacks on government systems and critical infrastructure; assign Canadian Armed Forces cyber security personnel to Ukrainian cyber defence operations to assist in monitoring and defending against related communications, hybrid warfare and cyber-attacks on Ukrainian critical infrastructure; plan to grant visa-free travel to Canada for Ukrainians; reinstate the Youth Mobility Agreement with Ukraine; consider furthering Ukrainian interests at the G7; assist with the development of relations and open dialogue between the Ukrainian government and civil society groups; and expand Canada’s sanctions, including implementing the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (Sergei Magnitsky Law), against those responsible for contributing to the armed conflict in Ukraine.
   • The Canadian government’s response supports many of the report’s recommendations, noting that they are consistent with Canada’s current approach to supporting Ukraine’s security, stability, and economic prosperity. With respect to the recommendation which called on the government to provide lethal weapons to Ukraine to protect its sovereignty from Russian aggression, the government is not actively considering this option and remains in contact with the Government of Ukraine on its requests for military equipment.
   • To read the full report and the response from the Government of Canada, please consult: Report 8 — Canada’s Support to Ukraine in Crisis and Armed Conflict and the Government Response.
10. House of Commons Standing Committee on International Trade (CIIT): Eighth Report — Priorities of Canadian Stakeholders Having an Interest in Bilateral and Trilateral Trade in North America, between Canada, United States, and Mexico (Report adopted by the Committee on December 6, 2017; report presented to the House of Commons on December 12, 2017; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on March 8, 2018).
    • This report draws on a study on the priorities of Canadian stakeholders with an interest in bilateral and trilateral trade in North America, between Canada, United States (U.S.) and Mexico, and has the primary objective of assessing these countries’ interest in bilateral and trilateral trade in North America.
    • The report makes 28 recommendations based on witness testimony from stakeholders in Canada and abroad. The report recommends that the government take actions designed to increase awareness among American counterparts about the value of the Canada—U.S. trade relationship; continue to use a whole-of-government approach in explaining the importance of the Canada—U.S. trade relationship; during North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) negotiations, prioritize outcomes that would promote Canadian exports, increase wages, and reduce income and wealth inequalities; work with the U.S. and Mexico to ensure NAFTA negotiations continue to be trilateral; during NAFTA negotiations, pursue changes that would make the agreement more progressive; conduct broad and meaningful consultations with Canadians during trade negotiations, and during NAFTA negotiations, consult regularly with provincial and territorial representatives; continue to pursue a free trade agreement among the 11 countries that are currently members of the Trans-Pacific Partnership; during NAFTA negotiations, prioritize outcomes that do no harm; address non-tariff barriers that inhibit fair access to North American Markets; during NAFTA negotiations, defend Canada’s supply management systems; continue its negotiations with the U.S. government to resolve disputes between the countries concerning U.S. imports of certain Canadian softwood lumber products; actively promote trade promotion services that are available to Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises, woman-owned businesses, and multicultural communities; promote any trade training that is offered in colleges and universities with opportunities to partner with business for export readiness; during NAFTA negotiations, oppose any changes to the rules-of-origin provisions; during NAFTA negotiations, consider the model provided by the Defence Production Sharing Agreement Between Canada and the United States as it pursues national treatment for Canadian businesses in the American public procurement market; in collaboration with the governments of the U.S. and Mexico, reduce time needed for goods to cross borders within North America and modernize the processes required for goods and people to cross shared borders; during NAFTA negotiations, work with the governments of the U.S. and Mexico to eliminate red tape and further harmonize regulations where possible; during NAFTA negotiations, pursue provisions that would provide new opportunities for Canadian businesses to engage in online commercial activities; during NAFTA negotiations, oppose eliminating cultural exemption; during NAFTA negotiations, oppose provisions that would reduce Canada’s ability to ensure the Canadian intellectual property regime balances the interests of right holders and users; during NAFTA negotiations, oppose changes that would reduce the existing mobility commitments; during NAFTA negotiations, work to ensure that the investment provisions allow governments to regulate in the public interest; during NAFTA negotiations, defend the dispute-settlement mechanisms in Chapters 19 and 20; during NAFTA negotiations, pursue environmental provisions that would strengthen the enforcement of environmental standards; during NAFTA negotiations, pursue strong and enforceable labour standards for North America; during NAFTA negotiations, ensure that gender remains an important consideration; and, during NAFTA negotiations, continue to advocate for a chapter on Indigenous peoples and seek to include principles contained in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.   
    • The Canadian government’s response supports the report’s recommendations, noting that the government shares the committee’s commitment to uphold the elements of NAFTA that are key to our national economic interest, while advancing opportunities to make NAFTA more progressive and conclusive.
    • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 8 — Priorities of Canadian Stakeholders Having an Interest in Bilateral and Trilateral Trade in North America, between Canada, United States, and Mexico and Government Response.
11. House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE): Fourteenth Report — Moving the Relationship Forward: NAFTA Modernization and North American Trilateral Cooperation (Report adopted by the Committee on December 12, 2017; report presented to the House of Commons on January 30, 2018; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on May 30, 2018).
    • This report, which draws from the Committee’s fact-finding missions to Mexico City, New York City, and Washington, D.C., has the primary objective of assessing the NAFTA modernization talks and opportunities to strengthen Canada—Mexico and Canada—U.S. bilateral cooperation.
    • The report makes six recommendations based on discussions with legislators, policy-makers and other stakeholders. The report recommends that the government continue to work with its Mexican and U.S. partners to modernize NAFTA; not set arbitrary deadlines for the conclusion of NAFTA modernization talks; work with business groups, unions, and other stakeholders to ensure that accurate information about NAFTA is disseminated; cooperate with the Government of Mexico in pursuit of common objectives in NAFTA negotiations; continue to strengthen its foreign policy cooperation with Mexico; and work with officials in Mexico and the United States and other partners to develop new mechanisms for dialogue and exchange within North America.
    • The Canadian government’s response supports the report’s recommendations, noting that the government continues to engage in a constructive dialogue with Mexico and the United States to modernize NAFTA and recognizes the importance of continued collaboration and cooperation with our North American partners.
    • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 14—Moving the Relationship Forward: NAFTA Modernization and North American Trilateral Cooperation and Government Response.
12. Subcommittee on International Human Rights (SDIR) of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE): Fifteenth Report— A Global Fight: Supporting Efforts to Address Sex Trafficking in South Asia (Report adopted by the Committee on February 1, 2018; report presented to the House of Commons on February 15, 2018; Government Response presented to the House of Commons on June 13, 2018).
    • This report studies sex trafficking in South Asia, a region in which sex trafficking is particularly prevalent. The Subcommittee’s study focused on six South Asian countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka. The purpose of this study was to identify measures to combat sex trafficking that the Government of Canada may incorporate in its initiatives in the region.
    • The report made four recommendations based on witness testimony. The report recommends that the government use all means to encourage South Asian states to implement their obligations under the UN Convention Against Corruption and to address the impact of corruption on existing national anti-trafficking initiatives; provide concrete support to regional efforts to collect evidence and information on the nature of sex trafficking across South Asia; make reducing women and girls’ vulnerability to human trafficking—and commercial sex trafficking in particular—a specific goal in its bilateral relations within the region and a metric through which its international assistance policy and programming is evaluated; and prioritize support for non-governmental organizations working towards preventing sex trafficking and rehabilitating survivors in South Asia in its international assistance programming.
    • The Canadian Government agrees with the majority of the report’s recommendations, and will carefully consider the second recommendation on enhancing data collection and detection capacity to hold perpetrators accountable.
    • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 15— A Global Fight: Supporting Efforts to Address Sex Trafficking in South Asia and Government Response.
13. House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE): Seventeenth Report — Focused, Independent, and Patient: Building a World-Class Canadian Development Finance Institution (Report adopted by the Committee on February 15, 2018; report presented to the House of Commons on March 20, 2018; Government Response was presented on August 22, 2018).
    • This report draws from the Committee’s study on the then-forthcoming Development Finance Institution (DFI) and has the primary objective of guiding the government in establishing it. 
    • The report makes six recommendations based on testimony from government officials, civil society, academics, and stakeholders. The report recommends that the government design its DFI to prioritize development outcomes and to develop innovative solutions to current development challenges; focus the DFI’s mandate on catalyzing private investment for international development by balancing the objective of development outcomes and profit; ensure that the DFI complements, not replaces, official development assistance; acknowledge that an emphasis on development outcomes comes at a greater financial risk; establish a board of directors made up of independent experts with experience in both financial management and international development; allow the DFI to pursue its mandate in an independent manner while ensuring it operates in accordance with Canadian values and interests; provide the DFI with a minimum 10-year period to demonstrate its capacity to fulfill its mandate in a financially sustainable manner; commit to providing additional funding during this 10-year period, as necessary; and implement transparency and accountability mechanisms that match or exceed the standards currently set by DFIs in other countries.
    • To read the full report and the Government of Canada response, please consult: Report 17 — Canada’s Development Finance Initiative and Government Response.

Response to audits conducted by the Office of the Auditor General of Canada (including audits conducted by the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development)

1. 2017 Fall Reports of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development: Report 2 – Performance Audit of Adapting to the Impacts of Climate Change
   • The audit examined whether key departments and agencies had taken appropriate measures to adapt to climate change impacts and whether they had taken action to address the highest prioritized risks to their areas of responsibility. Global Affairs Canada, along with 10 other entities, is named in one of the report’s five recommendations. To read Global Affairs Canada’s responses, please consult Report 2 – Adapting to the Impacts of Climate Change.
2. 2018 Spring Reports of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development: Report 2 – Canada’s Preparedness to Implement the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals
   • The audit examined whether the Government of Canada was prepared to implement the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Global Affairs Canada, along with four other entities, is named in all three of the report’s recommendations. To read Global Affairs Canada’s responses, please consult Report 2 – Canada's Preparedness to Implement the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
3. 2018 Spring Reports of the Auditor General of Canada: Report 7 – Consular Services to Canadians Abroad – Global Affairs Canada
   • The audit sought to determine whether Global Affairs Canada adequately responded to requests for consular assistance from Canadians travelling or living abroad. Based on the audit findings, seven recommendations were issued. To read Global Affairs Canada’s responses, please consult Report 7 – Consular Services to Canadians Abroad – Global Affairs Canada.

Response to audits conducted by the Public Service Commission of Canada or the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages

N/A

Up Front Multi-Year Funding – Centre for International Governance Innovation

Name of recipient: Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI)

Start date: January 30, 2003

End date: Ongoing

Strategic outcome: Canada’s International Agenda – The international agenda is shaped to advance Canadian security, prosperity, interests and values.

Link to department’s PAA: Program 1.2: Diplomacy, Advocacy, and International Agreements

Description: CIGI supports world-leading research in global governance, particularly global economic and financial governance, international security and international law. CIGI furthers Canada’s interest in having a stable and well-governed global system by bringing academics, policy experts and researchers together from around the world to generate policy recommendations on pressing international developments. In 2003, the Government of Canada contributed $30 million, which was matched by CIGI and subsequently added to by other public and private donors to establish an endowment fund. The Centre continues to be funded by the proceeds of this endowment.

Comments on variances: N/A

Significant audit findings by the recipient during the reporting year, and future plan: CIGI has published the 2017 annual report of its activities, including financial statements. The 2018 annual report will be available after the calendar year.

Significant evaluation findings by the recipient during the reporting year, and future plan: As set out in the 2003 funding agreement with Global Affairs Canada, CIGI has recently completed the third independent evaluation to measure the Centre’s overall performance in achieving expected results. 

The evaluation is organized under six evaluation standards: relevance, effectiveness, impact, planning, management and efficiency, and comparative analysis. The evaluation used a mixed-methods approach to collect and triangulate data from different sources, using both quantitative and qualitative techniques. This approach supported the development of robust, evidence-based findings, which in turn allowed for the development of insightful, validated conclusions, and recommendations.

Relevance: CIGI’s objectives, strategies and programming are clearly aligned with the funding agreement reached with the federal government. The stated purposes in the federal funding agreement are to (1) support world-leading research in the area of global governance, particularly in the area of global economic and financial governance and; (2) to further Canada’s interest in having a stable and well-governed global economic system in order to enhance the standard of living and quality of life of its population. More specifically, the purpose of the fund includes six objectives that are linked to CIGI’s objectives, strategies and activities.

Effectiveness: CIGI is using its convening power to successfully achieve its immediate outcomes by co-constructing relevant research products that are consistently being used by its national and international stakeholders. CIGI is regularly and increasingly mentioned in leading international media outlets from all around the world and the think tank has a strong presence in Canadian media, with regular mentions in all major outlets.

Impact: Assessing longer-term, sustainable and transformational change requires substantial longitudinal evidence. Evidence to date indicates that CIGI is making progress toward achieving ultimate outcomes, but definitive achievement is not identifiable yet. Key informant interviews indicate that CIGI’s efforts directed toward multilateral actors, like the programs on the G20, Internet governance or the World Refugee Council, have been the most visible and have had the highest potential in terms of impact.

Planning: The evaluation observed that CIGI has implemented the recommendations made by the last independent evaluation of CIGI conducted in 2013, most notably those related to the development of its innovation, communication and use of infrastructure strategies.

Management and efficiency: CIGI activities are sufficiently funded and have been implemented within budget. CIGI has taken significant measures to foster an evaluation culture for learning and accountability purposes, creating an Evaluation and Planning unit in 2012. CIGI has applied results-based management principles centrally and within programs and projects. An organizational logic model has been adopted and performance data is now being collected from all departments to track progress across the organization and is accessible via a central dashboard.

The new amalgamated Board of Directors is effective and functioning according to its governance mandate, overseeing CIGI and the proper implementation of the funding agreement. A move toward a more gender-balanced and diverse composition of its members should be considered to enrich its nature.  

Comparative analysis: CIGI compares very favourably to comparable think tanks. External rankings (Global Go To Think Tank Index Report, Transparify) generally rank CIGI in the top two or three when compared with other Canadian institutions, and often quite favourably when compared internationally. These rankings provide a positive external validation of CIGI’s work. The review of basic data from comparable think tanks in Canada (Fraser Institute, C.D. Howe Institute and Asia Pacific Foundation) demonstrates that CIGI, although a relatively young institution, is a leading think tank in Canada.

Summary of results achieved by the recipient: CIGI’s objectives, strategies and programming remain aligned with the funding agreement with the federal government. CIGI’s work in the areas of global economy, global politics and security, and international law are considered highly relevant within the current national and international context. CIGI has understood that in a globalized world, domestic and international issues are increasingly intertwined and that governance gaps must be addressed through this lens.

CIGI has been effective in reaching its immediate and intermediate outcomes by co-constructing relevant research products (outputs) that are consistently being used by its national and international stakeholders.

CIGI has made some important improvements with regard to its communication approaches by increasing its external communication capacities. Internal communication was identified by stakeholders as an aspect of the organization that could be strengthened. CIGI is an efficient organization able to deliver results within budget and on schedule. It has taken monitoring, evaluation and learning seriously and worked toward the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation performance culture.

CIGI has evolved as a valuable institution that is respected by its peers, conducting world-leading research and analysis, influencing policy-makers, and innovating to solve governance gaps.

Fees

Fees – Access to Information

Fee category: Fees for processing requests filed under the Access to Information Act

Fee-setting authority: Section 11 of the Access to Information Act (ATIA) and section 7 of the Access to Information Regulations

Year introduced: 1983

Year last amended: 2016

Service standard: A response is provided within 30 days following receipt of a request; the response time may be extended under section 9 of the Access to Information Act.

Performance results: Statutory deadlines were met 78 percent of the time and 43 percent of requests were completed within a 30-day period.

Other information: Estimated full cost is based on projected staffing of up to 64 full-time employees.

Export/Import Permit Fees

Fee category: Export/Import Permit Fees - Other Products and Services

Fee-setting authority: Export and Import Permits Act

Export and Import Permits and Certificates Fees Order

Year introduced: 1995

Year last amended: 1995

Service standard: Deliver non-strategic, non-routed import and export permits within 15 minutes of the time of application; process within four business hours permit applications that are automatically redirected (routed) to departmental officers or that have been flagged for an officer's review by the applicant when no additional information or documentation is required; process within three business days permit applications for B.C. logs that are automatically redirected (routed) to departmental officers; process within five business days permit applications for firearms that are automatically redirected (routed) to departmental officers; process applications for permits to export controlled military and strategic goods and technology from eligible exporters who have provided all required supporting documentation within 10 working days where consultation outside the bureau is not required and within 40 business days where consultation is required.

Performance results: The service standards were met 95 percent of the time.

Other information: N/A

Fees—Consular Services

Fee category: Consular Services Fee

Fee-setting authority: Consular Services Fees Regulations pursuant to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act

Year introduced: 1995

Year last amended: 1995, 1995

Service standard: Consular services are provided to Canadians 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at approximately 260 points of service around the world. Outside regular business hours, calls are forwarded to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa. Emergency situations are dealt with immediately.

Consular services provided to Canadians are detailed in the Canadian Consular Services Charter and assessed based on written service standards (established in 1995) with qualitative and quantitative indicators. The service standards are available at Consular Services: Service Standards as well as at all missions abroad, where they are either in public view or can be provided by employees.

Consular services are currently grouped under the following service standards categories:

1. Protection and Assistance
2. Contact with Prisoners
3. Passports and Citizenship
4. Information—Canada/Third Countries
5. Information—Local
6. Legal and Notary

Every effort is made to obtain solutions for specific problems and to provide the required service. However, the department’s ability to do so and its success are conditioned, in many instances, by the laws and regulations of other countries as well as the quality and level of cooperation offered by persons and organizations outside the Government of Canada.

The service standards are currently under review.

Performance results: Of the 3,680 Canadians who completed a Client Feedback Form in 2017–18, 91% reported that they were satisfied or very satisfied with the services received. The department also reports on performance against passport, citizenship and arrest/detention service standards. This information for 2017–18 is noted below.

Canada’s missions abroad are currently asked to contact arrested or detained persons within 24 hours and ensure regular contact with long-term Canadian detainees. The frequency of contact reflects local conditions: once every three months (e.g. in much of Latin America, Africa and Asia), once every six months (e.g. in much of Western Europe) or once every 12 months (e.g. in the United States, where approximately two-thirds of detainees are located). These standards serve as guidelines for our consular officers and can be modified as required depending on needs and conditions. As of March 31, 2018, more than 85% of detainee cases met their regional standard.

Missions are asked to report on their ability to accept, review and forward citizenship applications to Canada within the 10-day service standard. During 2017–18, they did so successfully with 88%of the applications. Missions are monitored for their ability to meet the 20-day service standard for regular passport issuance. They met this standard 86% of the time.

Other information: N/A

Fees—Specialized Consular Services

Fee category: Specialized Consular Services Fee

Fee-setting authority: Consular Fees (Specialized Services) Regulations, pursuant to paragraph 19 (1) (a) of the Financial Administration Act

Year introduced: N/A

Year last amended: 2010

Service standard: Specialized Consular Services are grouped under the following service standards categories:

1. Protection and Assistance
2. Legal and Notary

The complete list of service standards is available at Consular Services: Service Standards and at all Canadian missions abroad. Clients are invited to comment if they did not receive the level of service they expected or if they wish to make suggestions.

The service standards for Specialized Consular Services are currently under review.

Performance results: 90% of 259 clients reported overall satisfaction with the legal and notary services they received.

Other information: N/A

Financial Totals for all Fee Categories