Language selection

Search

Global Affairs Canada: Departmental Plan 2021-22

PDF Version (2 MB)

ISSN: 2371-7688

Table of contents

From the Ministers

COVID-19 has reminded us how important it is for countries around the world to cooperate in order to protect their citizens. The virus has also demonstrated that it is in the interest of our own security to leave no country behind and that in order to be safe, we need to advance together. We have also observed the strengths and weaknesses of our international system while growing more confident that multilateralism, democracy, strong and inclusive institutions and respect for international law, human rights and gender equality are some of the key elements in building sustainable, prosperous and resilient societies.

Since the virus appeared, last year, Canada has fully cooperated with international partners to slow its spread, manage the repercussions, and ensure equitable access to vaccines. We have also repatriated tens of thousands of Canadians stranded abroad and protected the resiliency of our supply chains to prevent interruptions in the provision of goods including essential health and medical supplies.

As we continue to grapple with the pandemic, global trends already evident over the past years have been exacerbated by the current crisis. These trends include, in many countries, growing gender inequality, sexual and gender-based violence, rising levels of social fragility and an increasing number of human rights violations. Therefore, with our allies and partners, we have been relentless in our advocacy for human rights, gender equality, diversity, inclusion and media freedom, including in places where regimes have been using the pandemic as a pretext to suppress basic human rights.

As a proud and strong supporter of the multilateral system and the international rules-based order, Canada will continue to champion constructive cooperation between states and work to reform and strengthen international institutions. These efforts are key to helping us find peaceful and sustainable solutions to problems we face and providing people around the world with the security and opportunities they deserve to fulfil their potential. Canada will continue to deepen its relationships with states and thematic and regional organizations.

Creating opportunities for everyone requires that we continue to implement our Feminist Foreign Affairs Policy, including our Feminist International Assistance Policy. In so doing, we will apply feminist principles to promoting rights-based, open and inclusive societies in which all people, regardless of their backgrounds or identities, can fully benefit from equal participation in all aspects of life. We will also strive to promote climate action, inclusive growth and lasting peace, and we will continue to support the full and meaningful participation of women in peace and security efforts. We will continue to play a leading role in these priorities, as well as in the prevention of violence against women, the promotion of access to sexual and reproductive health services the fight against systemic discrimination and racism and the defence of the rights of Indigenous peoples, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and 2-spirit persons and other marginalized people.

Recognizing that Canadians’ prosperity is directly linked to the ability of Canadian businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive in the global marketplace, we will continue to work to enhance our commercial relationships and enable diverse trade, investment and export opportunities. That means supporting Canadian businesses and innovators to ensure an inclusive and sustainable economic recovery. In a time of rising protectionism, it also means championing rules-based multilateralism, open and inclusive trade agreements and foreign direct investment from which all Canadians can benefit.

In a complex global environment, strengthened bilateral and multilateral relationships with both new and established partners will be key to achieving our goals. We will pursue opportunities for partnership worldwide. Canada remains committed to action on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with a view to mitigating potential setbacks to its progress due to the pandemic.

Canadians are actively engaged and present in every part of the world, and the pandemic has reminded us of the critical importance of having a robust global consular presence. In the years to come, we will continue to provide consular services to help Canadians stay safe abroad while we support Canada’s international presence through our network of missions.

Canada’s values and interests lie at the heart of everything we do. Working cooperatively and constructively with our partners around the world, we will continue to strive for peace, prosperity and sustainability.

The Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Foreign Affairs

The Honourable Mary Ng
Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade

The Honourable Karina Gould
Minister of International Development

Plans at a glance

Global Affairs Canada will deliver results in support of the government’s commitment to preserve, support and advance Canadian prosperity and security. It will seek to promote Canada’s values; protect its economic, security and political interests; and foster the relationships necessary to their achievement in an extremely volatile global context, made even more challenging by the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated socio-economic and geo-strategic consequences. Adopting a principled yet pragmatic approach, the department will seek to shape the evolving international environment to protect Canada’s interests, drawing on all its assets and expertise in diplomacy and advocacy, trade and investment, security, international assistance, and consular and management affairs.

The department will continue to implement Canada’s feminist foreign policy, which reflects a conviction that all people should enjoy the same human rights and opportunities to succeed. Key to this will be efforts to dismantle persistent discriminatory practices and structural barriers that, intentionally or not, result in inequality or exclusion of diverse groups. Global Affairs Canada will support actions to reduce poverty and fragility in developing countries and safeguard results, including through humanitarian crisis response, and will advance Canadian prosperity by working together with our trading partners abroad and at home to keep our economy strong and growing. The department will continue to strengthen and modernize its consular program, supported by Canada’s network of missions abroad, contributing to the safety and security of Canadians.

The department’s actions in response to COVID-19 bear special mention and will be organized around three strategic pillars where Canada can make a difference and where Global Affairs Canada has unique value-added in line with its priorities: fighting the pandemic and saving lives including by supporting equitable access to COVID-19 testing, treatments and vaccines; managing financial stresses and stabilizing economies, including through restored supply chains and enabling liquidity and stability for developing countries; and, supporting the most vulnerable and reinforcing a green and sustainable recovery through our humanitarian response, support for food security and education, and by addressing longer term socio-economic impacts of the pandemic. In all its efforts, the department will aim to mitigate potential setbacks the COVID-19 pandemic will have on achieving progress on the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and poverty eradication.

The department will achieve results for Canadians in a manner that is open, inclusive and transparent, exemplifying the best qualities of the public service. Its staff will innovate in finding solutions to pressing global challenges, and improve its use of data and new technologies. The department will engage and partner with individual Canadians, civil society and other stakeholders, including Indigenous communities, businesses of all sizes, organized labour, research institutions and not-for-profits, recognizing this increases its ability to achieve sustainable impact.

To support this work in 2021-22, the department will focus on four priorities:

1. Contributing to a rules-based international system that advances Canadian interests

Fostering a rules-based international system that is effective and inclusive and that supports Canadian interests is an overarching objective of Canadian foreign policy. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated how crucial this rules-based system is to our collective health, prosperity and security. In this context, Global Affairs Canada will continue to champion respect for international law and established norms of international behavior, foster cooperative multilateral action as a central component of finding solutions to today’s global challenges, and pursue new and innovative partnerships.

The department will work bilaterally and multilaterally to drive positive change in areas such as democracy, human rights and gender equality, the rule of law, climate change and environmental protection. It will continue to reinforce Canadian interests in the Arctic including through the Arctic Council. Canada will also sustain our substantive engagement with the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie and the Commonwealth, as well as with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. The department will strengthen Canada’s support for UN peace operations, conflict prevention and peacebuilding, including through further advancement of the Women, Peace and Security agenda. It will continue to address humanitarian crises and support countries at greater risk of natural disasters, including those due to the effects of climate change. In all its efforts, the department will apply its feminist approach. Through mobilizing partners, building alliances in multilateral and regional forums, and targeted bilateral action, the department will work toward achieving transformative change for greater respect of human rights, gender equality and diversity and inclusion.

2. Supporting Canadian exporters and economic recovery, building economic resilience, and working toward the renewal of the rules-based multilateral trading system

The success of Canadian businesses, notably small and medium-sized enterprises, is fundamental to Canada’s pandemic recovery and long-term economic prosperity. The department will continue to negotiate modern free trade agreements, implement the Export Diversification Strategy, increase inward investment and promote resilient and sustainable growth. To support its inclusive approach to trade, Global Affairs Canada will continue to ensure that more Canadians, including women, Indigenous peoples and under-represented groups, have access to the benefits and opportunities flowing from international trade and investment. The department will also pursue collaboration with various partners to reinforce Canada’s openness to international commerce and will continue our work to enhance supply chain resilience, address barriers to international trade, and protect the market access interests of our companies abroad.

Canada will create and maintain the bilateral and multilateral relationships necessary to advance peace and economic prosperity. As such, Global Affairs Canada will continue to support the preservation and the renewal of an open and rules-based multilateral trading system that benefits everyone, including by leading the Ottawa Group on World Trade Organization (WTO) reform, with the objective of achieving realistic, meaningful and pragmatic improvements.

3. Deepening Canada’s engagement in the world

The Government of Canada is committed to further strengthening key bilateral relationships and engaging new partners to address emerging challenges such as the current pandemic. When engaging bilaterally, the department will continue to integrate and calibrate foreign, security, development and trade policy priorities to enable a coherent approach.

Canada will build on strong relations with the United States and Mexico. With the United States, Canada will seek to further enhance cooperation on border management, trade, the COVID-19 pandemic, economic recovery, diversity and inclusion, energy and climate change, and jointly address global issues, including security and defence. With Mexico, Canada will further strengthen its engagement on shared priorities such as promoting the feminist foreign policy, trade and other issues affecting the continent.

In Europe, the department will reinforce Canada’s already strong transatlantic relationship. It will deepen bilateral relations with the EU and its member states and the United Kingdom, to achieve common goals related to COVID-19 response and recovery, foreign affairs, international security, free and fair trade, climate change and sustainable development.

Global Affairs Canada will develop a new integrated approach to the Indo-Pacific region with a view to diversifying Canada’s engagement and deepening its partnerships in the region to focus on the promotion of an inclusive trade agenda, collaboration on complex security issues, revitalization of the current rules-based international order, and international assistance. Canada will continue to seek the immediate release of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, who have been arbitrarily detained since December 2018, and clemency for Robert Schellenberg and all Canadians facing the death penalty.

Across Africa, Canada will deepen its engagement, including at the African Union, and further its dynamic partnerships to strengthen its bilateral, people-to-people ties and trade relationships. By building strong partnerships with African countries to address security, governance, sustainable development and humanitarian needs, Canada will support climate action and advance democracy.

In the Middle East, Canada will continue to work with regional partners to set the conditions for sustainable peace and to buttress inclusive governance efforts, including in response to ongoing crises and their impact on the region. Such efforts will also reinforce our partnerships as well as support sustainable economic development to increase opportunities in the region.

In Latin America and the Caribbean, Canada will continue to engage bilaterally and regionally to support the most vulnerable and reinforce global recovery, working with individual countries toward aspirations under the Sustainable Development Goals, and across the region to address common challenges related to the Venezuela crisis, regional migration and climate change.

4. Eradicating poverty

Global Affairs Canada will continue to implement the Feminist International Assistance Policy, which has provided a robust framework to guide Canada’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is focused on reaching the poorest and most vulnerable. International assistance programming will focus on promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls; investing in health, education, inclusive governance, economic development, and environment and climate change initiatives; and integrating humanitarian, development, and peace and security efforts.

In this context, Global Affairs Canada will deliver Canada’s international assistance in ways that encourage innovation —including innovative financing approaches —effectiveness, transparency, and accountability, and that reflect Canada’s commitment to realizing the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

For more information on Global Affairs Canada’s plans, priorities and planned results, see the “Core responsibilities: planned results and resources” section of this report.

Core responsibilities: planned results and resources

This section contains detailed information on the department’s planned results and resources for each of its core responsibilities.

International advocacy and diplomacy

Description

Global Affairs Canada promotes Canada’s interests and values through policy development, diplomacy, advocacy, and effective engagement.

Planning highlights

Global Affairs Canada will continue to focus its advocacy and diplomacy efforts on fostering and upholding human rights, democracy and international law; promoting nature, biodiversity, climate action and ocean health; and supporting sustainable and inclusive growth and lasting peace and security. Through support for a renewed rules-based international system and reinvigorated multilateralism, Canada’s feminist foreign policy will help shape a world that is better able to confront collective challenges, including those posed by authoritarianism and increased geopolitical competition. Canada will also work with its international partners to advance action on common global goals, including the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Women, Peace and Security agenda, and international efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts.

Canada builds and maintains constructive relationships that advance Canada’s interests

Through innovative and agile advocacy and diplomacy, Global Affairs Canada will build new, inclusive, and innovative international partnerships and strengthen long-standing relationships.

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced unprecedented challenges and accentuated pre-existing problems, including those related to the consequences of globalization and existing economic models; climate change and irregular migration; reversals in achievements in gender equality and poverty reduction; digital inclusion and, threats to cyber security. To address these and other issues, Canada will engage diverse stakeholders, bilaterally and multilaterally, to renew and strengthen the current rules-based system and build collective knowledge, experience and resilience. This also includes working with regional partners to harness the benefits of migration, to deter irregular migration, and to protect vulnerable migrants.

The department will promote and provide Canadian expertise for coordinated and proactive global action while working with partners in the context of multilateral and regional organizations. This includes the UN, the G7, the G20, the Commonwealth, La Francophonie, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the European Union, the African Union, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the Organization of American States (OAS), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the North American Aerospace Defense Command, Organization for Security and Co-operations in Europe (OSCE) and a wide range of bodies and entities created under international treaties to which Canada is a Party. Canada will also continue to work with its partners in the Five Eyes to advance shared security priorities.

In the face of the pandemic, our close ties with our continental partners, the United States and Mexico, have proven essential to keeping our citizens healthy and safe, while ensuring that goods and services continue to flow between our countries. Strengthening our constructive relationships, built on shared values and interests, remains a priority. This includes working to implement the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA); pursuing inclusive and progressive trade and investment; reinforcing Canadian defense and security including by improving management and security of shared borders; and promoting clean energy, environmental protection and resource security. This also includes working together on public health, secure supply chains, and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Global Affairs Canada will engage at all levels with decision makers and opinion shapers within our North American partners, including at the state and local levels, to advance Canada’s interests and support building back a better post-pandemic North America.

As we pursue a sustainable, broad-based economic recovery from the pandemic, Global Affairs Canada will seek out markets, investments and innovation partnerships in Europe that benefit workers and businesses alike. The Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is an especially crucial tool; the department will work to promote its full use, as well as its ratification, in the interests of both parties. The department will work beyond CETA to grow our commercial relationships with important markets in the United Kingdom, the European Free Trade Association countries, and beyond. Meanwhile, we will cooperate with the EU, its member states, and the full range of other partners in Europe on international peace and security, gender equality, democracy, human rights, climate change, and the rules-based international system. Canada has a longstanding interest in Europe’s stability, security and prosperity.  Canada has an increasingly important desire to work in partnership with Europe, around the world, to uphold shared values and interests.

Global Affairs Canada will also build on Government of Canada efforts to strengthen Canadian leadership in the Arctic and support a rules-based international system. The department will work to implement Canada’s international Arctic policy as reflected in the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework, in close cooperation with domestic and international partners, including territorial and provincial governments and Indigenous Peoples. Canada’s leadership will centre on key Arctic and Northern issues, such as Arctic science and research, environmental protection and sustainable socio-economic cultural development.

To enable progress in these and other areas the department will ensure substantive support for Canada’s engagement on the Arctic Council (including the participation of Indigenous peoples); work to more clearly define Canada’s Arctic boundaries; and conduct targeted advocacy to broaden international engagement on Canada’s Arctic and Northern priorities.

As a Pacific country, Canada’s engagement in Asia is a key priority. Canada will develop a new integrated approach to the Indo-Pacific region with a view to diversifying Canada’s engagement and deepening its diplomatic, economic, security and sustainable development partnerships in this region. As this framework develops, Canada will continue to advance free and open market access for Canadian goods, services and investment; support international rules-based trade; build the capacity of developing partner country’s Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and women entrepreneurs; and, pursue cooperation with regional partners on democratic values, accountable governance and human rights, as well as respect for international law. The department is committed to collaborative work in regional forums in the Indo-Pacific on economic and public health recovery that is inclusive and sustainable; while also implementing the Feminist International Assistance Policy in a post-COVID context. As part of this regional strategy, Canada will continue to deepen its bilateral relationships, such as with India, Japan, Australia, South Korea and, ASEAN and its member states, particularly in the areas of trade and investment, international peace and security, and energy and the environment, to realize the full potential of these strategic partnerships.

Strategic, principled engagement with China will continue, including through strategic advocacy and diplomacy efforts focused on the respect for and protection and promotion of human rights and international law. Both bilaterally and multilaterally, Canada will also continue its strong advocacy and action for a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar and Bangladesh, as well as to displacement crises in Central America, and help foster stability and development in Afghanistan.

In support of sustainable peace in the Middle East and North Africa, Canada will continue to employ a wide range of foreign policy tools to reinforce regional partners as they address enduring challenges and support the region as it faces the impacts of COVID-19. This includes providing international assistance to promote human rights, gender equality and the rule of law; contributing to inclusive economic development; advancing conflict resolution, stabilization and humanitarian efforts; supporting democracy; and, working to counter terrorism and violent extremism. Canada will continue to work with its partners in the Middle East and the North Africa region on efforts to strengthen international security and to counter extremism, via diplomatic engagement, including through the Global Coalition to counter Daesh and the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum. In addition, Canada will work with other Middle East and North Africa countries to promote inclusion and diversity, to offer some significant opportunities, including in the area of education.

In alignment with Canada’s broader international efforts in the region, Canada will continue to work with local partners to set the conditions for sustainable peace and inclusive prosperity, including through civilian-led stabilization programs and support for governance and longer-term resilience.

As a country of the Americas, building shared prosperity and security will be the goal of Canada’s engagement in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Important objectives of cooperation will be to implement a feminist foreign policy that includes promoting effective multilateral action and inclusive economic growth, particularly women’s economic empowerment; advancing democratic principles; defending human rights; building climate resilience, especially in the Caribbean and with Small Island Developing States; and, supporting post-pandemic health recovery. Global Affairs Canada will continue close cooperation with regional allies in pressing for peaceful democratic resolutions in Venezuela and in Nicaragua. The department will lead in supporting the Lima Group’s international advocacy for free, fair and credible presidential and parliamentary elections in Venezuela and will contribute to alleviating the multidimensional crisis suffered by the Venezuelan population, including the millions of Venezuelan migrants and refugees who have fled. In Haiti, Canada is advocating for the rapid return of a functional parliament through credible and transparent elections and will continue long-term support to the Haitian National Police to help counter the rising insecurity and widespread impunity in the country. Latin America has been one of the regions most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and Canada’s engagements will be informed by the needs of populations in this regard, including through its participation in the Summit of the Americas and work on financing for development.

Sub-Saharan Africa continues to be a source of important economic, security and political partnerships for Canada. Global Affairs Canada will work with African countries and with regional and international bodies, including the African Union, regional economic communities, La Francophonie, and the Commonwealth to build strong partnerships to address security, governance, sustainable development and humanitarian needs and to promote trade diversification on the continent. Special effort will be made to serve the most marginalized and at-risk people, including those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the impacts of climate change. Canada will increase international assistance in the region, including through the establishment of bilateral development assistance programs with Sudan, Chad and Niger. In addition, Canada will continue to lead the development of a signature initiative to mitigate biological threats in Africa, through the G7-led Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction and in collaboration with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Global Affairs Canada will also lead government efforts to expand inclusive and green economic relationships and diversify trade, including through supporting the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Canada’s leadership on global issues contributes to a just and inclusive world

In the year ahead, Global Affairs Canada will reinforce Canadian leadership in advancing sustainable development globally. It will do so by bringing into focus key agendas in its leadership on official development assistance, including gender-responsive action and advocacy, human rights online and offline, inclusive governance and democracy, climate change and nature, peace and security cooperation. With the advancement of human rights and gender equality facing further challenges in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada will also continue its policy and advocacy to help address sexual and gender based violence; ensure access to sexual and reproductive health and rights; promote freedom of expression, the protection of journalists and human rights defenders, and freedom of religion or belief; advance the human rights of Indigenous Peoples, LGBTQ2I persons and older persons;  combat systemic discrimination and racism; and promote human rights-respecting technology and digital inclusion. Complementary to this programming, Canadian advocacy will emphasize that respect for human rights and diversity and inclusion is critical to building sustainable, peaceful and prosperous countries.

Canada’s approach in advocating for human rights globally will be informed by regular and meaningful engagement with diaspora and faith and belief communities, civil society actors, academics, the private sector, and the broader international community, recognizing that the international human rights agenda is mutually reinforcing with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In close collaboration with government and non-government partners, Canada’s engagement in multilateral fora, including the UN Human Rights Council, UN General Assembly and regional organizations, will encourage respect for human rights online and offline, support human rights defenders and ensure accountability for human rights abuses and violations. Canada has appointed a Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism, who also serves as Head of Delegation at the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance. The Special Envoy will engage domestically and with other international bodies and coalitions to advance work on combatting antisemitism, promoting Holocaust education and awareness, and applying lessons of the Holocaust to contemporary human rights violations.

Canada will continue to work with partners in the Media Freedom Coalition to build on the momentum of the November 2020 Global Conference for Media Freedom to strengthen the political will and financial contributions to protect media freedom. Canada also continues to play a central role in the Equal Rights Coalition to promote the full and equal enjoyment of rights by LGBTI persons worldwide, and to support the work of the G7 Gender Equality Advisory Council, which was founded by Canada in 2018 and renewed by France in 2019.

Canada will also work with its partners to respond to international security issues. Strategic action will focus on coordinating responses to foreign interference and hostile activities by state actors, economic-based threats to national security, international crime and terrorism, weapons proliferation, and regional and local security crises. In support of these efforts, Canada will seek to reinforce NATO’s role as a key pillar of the current rules-based international system and will contribute to preserving and advancing NATO as the cornerstone of transatlantic security. Alongside members of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh, Canada will work to ensure the downfall of Daesh in Iraq and Syria, as well as its affiliates and branches worldwide. Canada will also continue to coordinate the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism, agreed at the 2018 Charlevoix G7 Summit, to identify and respond to foreign threats to democracy. The mechanism will continue to serve as a platform to discuss national approaches and share real-time information on foreign threats, including COVID-19 pandemic-related disinformation, and offer opportunities for coordinated responses. Working closely with its Five Eyes partners, Canada will continue to respond to global security and foreign policy issues.

Canada’s second National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) is a cornerstone of Canada’s feminist foreign policy. Canada will continue to seize new opportunities to advance the WPS agenda by mobilizing support for women as active agents of peace, leading global WPS initiatives, promoting gender equality in fragile and conflict-affected states and strengthening partnerships with other countries and civil society to ensure that peace and security interventions are gender-responsive.

Gender equality and women’s full and meaningful participation in conflict prevention, conflict resolution and peacebuilding will also continue to be furthered through Canada’s work with bilateral and multilateral partners, in particular the UN. The department will support effective, efficient and inclusive UN peace operations, including as Vice-Chair of the UN Peacebuilding Commission. Efforts to increase support for the UN’s Peacebuilding Fund will help reinforce integrated international responses for sustaining peace in countries or situations at risk of or affected by violent conflict. Canada will also continue to promote the meaningful participation of women in peace operations through the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations.

In addition, Canada will continue to work towards the establishment of the Canadian Centre for Peace, Order and Good Governance, taking into account other priorities and pressures that have emerged in the COVID-19 context. Canada will continue to play a leadership role in the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF) as co-chair, working to improve collaboration, information sharing, and the integration of gender-responsive and human rights-based approaches, into counterterrorism work at national, regional and local levels. This will include efforts to finalize the GCTF Strategic Vision for the next decade in the lead-up to its 10th anniversary in September 2021.

Canada helps build strong international institutions and respect for international law

Global Affairs Canada will continue its strategic and active participation in the development, promotion and application of international law, a cornerstone in the advancement of a rules-based international system. The department will provide advice and contribute to related policy development on a wide range of international legal issues, including in the key areas of international human rights, international law of the sea, cybersecurity and cybercrime, international treaty law, international trade law, international environmental law, and laws and guidelines supporting the peaceful use of outer space. Together with like-minded partners, Canada will continue to exercise leadership to promote the rule of law at the UN and within other international organizations, including a strategic stability framework for cyberspace. The department will also strengthen the legal framework facilitating international trade and investment, with special focus on investor-state dispute settlement reform at the UN Commission on International Trade Law.

United Nations ocean and biodiversity

In the year ahead, Global Affairs Canada, along with Environment and Climate Change Canada, will remain active in supporting efforts to address threats to biodiversity, by contributing to negotiating the Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) post-2020 framework and negotiating a new United Nations oceans agreement on biodiversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction.

Canada will work diligently to ensure that Canadian priorities are reflected in the outcomes of international discussions and negotiations and that Canada’s rights and interests are advanced, prosecuted for and defended under international law. The department will work with key stakeholders to strengthen the integrity of the international treaty system, which is a foundation of international law and cooperation, in accordance with the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.

As chair of the Ottawa Group on World Trade Organization (WTO) reform, Canada will continue its leadership on WTO modernization so Canadians can benefit from open, transparent and stable global trade rules. The department will continue to work with a range of international partners to open up new export markets abroad and create new opportunities at home.

Canada will continue its work supporting non-proliferation and arms control. This will include reinforcing the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons as a keystone of the international disarmament architecture and its mandate to uphold the norm against the use of chemical weapons, notably through its continued push for accountability for the perpetrators of chemical weapons use in Syria. Canada will advance international efforts to ban the development and use of fully autonomous weapons systems, including through active participation in international fora such as the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW). Canada will continue efforts to advance cooperation in the nuclear field, as well as for the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technology. Efforts will include serving as Chair of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency until September 2021, reinforcing the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons ahead of its 10th review conference, advancing substantive cooperation in the nuclear field, advocating for negotiations of a Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty, championing the entry-into-force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, and developing multilateral nuclear disarmament verification capabilities.

The department will continue to chair the International Response and Coordination Group of flight PS752 victim states with Afghanistan, the United Kingdom, Sweden and Ukraine. Canada’s priority since the downing of PS752 has always been to provide families and loved ones with the support they need and will continue to do so. Canada will support the negotiations on reparations with Iran to achieve accountability and will continue to work with other impacted countries to seek transparency and justice for the victims of this tragedy and their families.

Canada’s global influence is expanded and strengthened

Amidst instances of accelerated change driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada will prioritize cultivating dynamic and inclusive relationships with new and traditional partners to advance Canadian interests and values around the world. The department will continue to work to build Canada’s global competitiveness and further its leadership on the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its COVID-19 response and recovery, engaging across the UN system, including through the World Health Organization (WHO), and through the G7, the G20, the WTO, APEC, the OAS, the OECD, international financial institutions, La Francophonie and the Commonwealth. In this regard, Canada is committed to working with partners for a strong, resilient, sustainable and green recovery that is centred on fair, stable and predictable rules-based trade that leaves no one behind. The department will continue to support and promote the Financing for Development in the Era of COVID-19 and Beyond initiative, which Canada co-convened with Jamaica and the United Nations in spring 2020.

As a contribution to the revitalization of Canada’s public diplomacy, Global Affairs Canada will, in the year ahead, lead the development of a comprehensive cultural diplomacy strategy. This strategy will allow Canada’s network of missions abroad to leverage Canadian culture and arts to create new spaces for dialogue, in order to advance our foreign policy objectives.

Canada’s continued commitment to providing timely, needs-based and gender-responsive humanitarian assistance is a tangible expression of Canadian dedication to alleviating the suffering of persons living through emergencies and crises. The emergence of COVID-19 has only served to compound the challenges faced by people affected by humanitarian crises, whether related to natural disasters, climate change, or the protracted armed conflicts that have led to the largest movement of internally displaced persons and refugees since WWII. Canada will work within the global system to respond to country and regional situations, such as those being experienced in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, Ethiopia, Haiti, Somalia, South Sudan, Syria, Venezuela and neighbouring countries, and Yemen.

Planned results for International advocacy and diplomacy
Departmental ResultDepartmental results indicatorsTargetDate to achieve target2017-18 Actual Results2018-19 Actual results2019-20 Actual results
1 It is not appropriate to set a target for this indicator, as it counts international commitments made at the political level which are demand-driven in response to the shifting international landscape. The previously established baseline can be used to do a comparison with the number of past and future commitments, however it should not be treated as a target.
2 This figure is based on partial data, and only includes influencers reached at two international conferences held in Ottawa. It does not provide complete baseline data at this time.
3 Treaty actions per year: 25-50; MOU actions per year: 25-40; Mutual Legal Assistance (Civil): 100; Mutual Legal Assistance (Criminal): 300; Authentication of Documents: 19,000.
4 The survey has been postponed due to COVID-19 and a decision is forthcoming on whether it will actually be conducted this year.
Canada builds and maintains constructive relationships that advance Canada's interestsPercentage of advocacy campaigns which met their stated objectives75%March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
100%80%
Percentage of diplomatic activities which met their stated objectives75%March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
87%70%
Number of international commitments through which Canada works with partners to address strategic peace and security challengesNot applicable1Not available
New indicator
1714
Canada's leadership on global issues contributes to a just and inclusive worldNumber of influencers reached through Canadian-hosted events, including events on women's empowerment and rights and gender equality190March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
1802187
Percentage of Canadian-led decisions introduced through international and regional organizations that are accepted80%March 31, 2022100%100%100%
Number of Canadians in leadership positions in international institutions18March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
918
Canada helps build strong international institutions and respect for international lawPercentage of organizations of which Canada is a member, which receive a positive performance rating on any independent evaluation100%March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
100%100%
Number of actions that are led or supported by Canada which support strengthened adherence to international law.19,4503March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
Degree to which Canadian positions on international legal issues are reflected in the outcome of discussions and negotiations, such as agreements, arrangements and resolutions.85%March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
83%84%
Canada’s global influence is expanded and strengthened.Ranking of Canada’s global presence as reflected by our participation in the global economy, our military presence and our people-to-people ties.Between 5-8March 31, 2022888
Ranking of Canada’s reputation abroad as reported in global opinion polls.Between 4-7March 31, 2022776
Percentage of Canadians who are satisfied with Canada’s international engagement.46%March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
46%Not applicable4

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote i

Planned budgetary financial resources for International advocacy and diplomacy
2021–22 budgetary spending (as indicated in Main Estimates)2021–22 planned spending2022–23 planned spending2023–24 planned spending
929,029,444929,029,444927,622,270922,729,114

Financial, human resources and performance information for the Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote ii

Planned human resources for International advocacy and diplomacy
2021–22 planned full-time equivalents2022–23 planned full-time equivalents2023–24 planned full-time equivalents
2,3992,4002,399

Financial, human resources and performance information for the Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote iii

Trade and Investment

Description

Global Affairs Canada supports increased and more diverse trade and investment to raise the standard living for all Canadians and to enable Canadian businesses to grow internationally and to create economic opportunities.

Planning highlights

To ensure that Canadian businesses are able to contribute their ingenuity and value to the global marketplace, Global Affairs Canada will continue work to strengthen international trade structures, support the modernization of critical trade institutions and helps exporters adapt and thrive in international digital marketplaces and the wider knowledge-based economy. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how interconnected the world is, as closed borders and limited travel have had a major impact on the flow of goods, capital and people, and consequently on the ability of countries to respond to the pandemic. To strengthen our commercial relationships, Global Affairs Canada will focus on finding common ground with existing and emerging trading partners, resolving irritants, honouring commitments and opening up new markets—all while aiming to support Canadians, including small businesses, women entrepreneurs and Indigenous peoples, through the recovery and thus enabling them to fully share in the benefits of international trade, investment and innovation.

Canada helps to build and safeguard an open and inclusive rules-based global trading system

Canada is committed to pursuing an open trading system that focuses on sustainable and inclusive economic opportunities. This has taken on intensified significance in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic given the importance of working with international partners to keep supply chains open and facilitate the flow of essential goods, such as food, medicines and medical equipment. While increased economic growth has helped drive down rates of extreme poverty and contributed to creating a larger global middle class, the momentum to liberate international trade has stalled, as evidenced by protracted disagreements and challenges faced by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and rising protectionism. The rules-based international trading system is under pressure and trade diplomacy remains essential to manage challenges in this context. Canada’s strong engagement to reform and support the WTO, including through its ongoing leadership of the Ottawa Group, has never been more important.

Global Affairs Canada supports the preservation of Canadian interests through ongoing trade policy advocacy and business development activities and, where appropriate, by engaging in dispute settlement. In the context of COVID-19, Global Affairs Canada will seek to address restrictions on Canada’s ability to import and access critical goods and services, respond to trade restrictions affecting Canadian goods and services exports, and continue efforts to safeguard and limit damage to multilateral rules-based trade institutions.

Canada also supports the rules-based trading system through the negotiation and implementation of bilateral and regional free trade agreements, bilateral foreign investment promotion and protection agreements, and other trade policy tools. By pursuing new opportunities and agreements with diverse partners, the department will help Canadian businesses gain enhanced access to and grow in the global marketplace. Canada will ratify and implement its Trade Continuity Agreement and work to launch negotiations for a new bilateral agreement with the United Kingdom. Comprehensive free trade agreement discussions with the Pacific Alliance will continue to progress, as well as the exploration of possible trade agreements with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Indonesia, and the proposed modernization of Canada’s free trade agreement with Ukraine. Canada will work with members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) to support the accession of potential new members and ratification of existing members and will continue to work to ensure the full implementation and ratification of CETA by all EU member states. Canada will continue to support the air services industry and the flow of essential goods and services through the negotiation of bilateral air transport agreements, as well as targeted outreach to resolve market access issues brought to the fore by the pandemic.

Advocacy and engagement across a range of international organizations and forums are critical components of Canada’s trade diplomacy, in addition to bilateral, regional and multilateral agreements. Canada’s interests and priorities will continue to be advanced through engagement with partners and international entities, such as the G7, the G20, the World Intellectual Property Organization, APEC, the World Economic Forum, and the OECD.

Canadian exporters and innovators are successful in their international business development efforts

Global Affairs Canada will work with our partners to ensure that our global engagements are maximizing innovation, investment and market access opportunities for Canadian businesses— thereby supporting more jobs and prosperity for Canadians. Continued efforts will be made to expand trade and investment with emerging markets and traditional partners, and Global Affairs Canada will work diligently to mitigate the impact of protectionist and restrictive measures abroad on Canadian industry and workers. In the year ahead, special effort will be made to support Canadian business to become more resilient to pandemic impacts, to recover and to take advantage of emerging opportunities. The Trade Commissioner Service will continue to use virtual means, including the use of virtual trade missions, to effectively serve clients and connect them to international markets.

The resilience of Canadian business will continue to be bolstered through the Export Diversification Strategy, which seeks to provide more opportunities for Canadian exporters and innovators to compete and succeed in new global markets and sectors. The department will work with partners to increase and diversify Canada’s trade with key global markets, including developing markets, with a particular focus on further diversification across the fast-growing Indo-Pacific region.

The department will continue to establish Canada as a constructive, responsible, innovative and competitive leader in the global marketplace, with a goal of growing Canadian overseas exports and supporting agricultural and other industries to get their products to global markets. The department will provide support to Canadian businesses to take advantage of the opportunities that flow from free trade agreements, with a focus on CETA, CUSMA and CPTPP, drawing on resources from across government and from public and private sector partners to ensure Canadian businesses fully benefit from the agreements. Recognizing that the United States is the gateway to other markets for many Canadian businesses, the department will work to strengthen Canada’s relationship with the United States. More broadly, Global Affairs Canada will work to avoid measures that may hinder integrated supply chains and ensure Canada’s trade promotion and diversification efforts are maximized.

Can Export program adapts to COVID-19

CanExport updated its guidelines to address COVID-19 export challenges and provide more flexible funding, particularly for virtual activities. This has enabled SMEs to pivot away from in-person sales to digital platforms. The program also adapted to cover market-specific COVID-19 related certification costs to help companies navigate regulatory frameworks and trade barriers.

Implementation of the International Education Strategy will continue to help Canadian educational institutions to recruit targeted international students and promote partnerships and exports in the growing international education sector. The Strategy also supports Canada’s labour force access to the skills and talent needed to compete successfully in global markets, creating middle-class jobs and fostering prosperity in communities across the country.

For Canadian businesses to grow and succeed in the innovation economy, they need to innovate to create new products and services, commercialize their ideas and compete in the global marketplace. Global Affairs Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) will continue to support Canada’s competitive advantage by facilitating new science, technology and innovation partnerships between Canadian SME, and other innovators, with partners in priority foreign markets. The department will continue to promote Canadian firms as world leaders in clean technologies and will work closely with ECCC and other government departments to support the implementation of Canada’s new strengthened climate plan. Increasing Canada’s clean tech exports is a priority and helps to position Canada to become a leader in the global fight against climate change.

Through such programs as CanExport Innovation, the Canadian Technology Accelerators and the Canadian International Innovation Program, the department will create new opportunities for Canadian businesses to gain access to international expertise, co-develop new technologies with foreign partners, and integrate their innovative products into global supply chains. In particular, Global Affairs Canada will strengthen the science, technology and innovation partnership with Israel, one of the world’s leading innovation nations, to create more opportunities for Canadian SMEs and other innovators. Working closely with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, the TCS will also help Canadian early stage companies by connecting them to Canadian and international venture capital investors and by facilitating access to programs to help them scale-up.

Global Affairs Canada’s services and support to Canadian exporters, associations, and innovators will focus on addressing and resolving existing and new market access issues to protect supply chains and access for Canadian companies. The TCS’s global and domestic network of over 160 offices will be employed to support this objective, bolstered by improved trade policy training for trade commissioners. The TCS will provide enhanced support to select firms with the greatest potential to improve Canadian prosperity and provide targeted sectoral expertise to Canadian businesses, researchers and educational institutions. Once launched, the renewed Responsible Business Conduct Strategy is expected to strengthen the competitive advantage for Canadian companies active abroad and reinforce the department’s expectation that Canadians companies will incorporate responsible business practices throughout all aspects of their operations, including throughout their supply chains. Additionally, the TCS will improve its ability to connect Arctic and northern businesses with export opportunities and support business-to-business activities including through the Arctic Economic Council.

As the global pandemic accelerates the adoption of digital technologies, the TCS will actively support both the innovative Canadian information and communications technology companies supplying the technology that supports international digital marketplaces and the Canadian exporters who want to take advantage of e-commerce opportunities. New trade commissioners hired in 2019 will support expanded TCS advice and services in areas such as digital, e-commerce and intellectual property. The TCS will also continue to ensure that key private sector players such as Shopify are mobilized and engaged. We will continue to promote CanExport to assist SMEs with international market development activities abroad related to e-commerce. Global Affairs Canada will continue to promote Business Development Canada, Canadian Commercial Corporation, Export Development Canada, and Invest in Canada as Canada’s trade toolkit. Global Affairs Canada will continue to work in concert with our partner agencies and crown corporations, including through the Business Economic Trade Recovery Working Group, to ensure Canadian businesses receive the full breadth of services and support available to them.

Global Affairs Canada will continue to develop and advance inclusive approaches to trade to ensure that all Canadians can fully share in the benefits of international trade, with a focus on SMEs, women entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses, as well as those led by Indigenous people, newcomers, youth, persons with disabilities and LGBTQ2I persons. Specifically, Canada actively seeks to include dedicated chapters and provisions on SMEs, trade and gender, and trade and Indigenous peoples in its free trade agreement negotiations. These chapters and provisions provide a framework for parties to the agreements to undertake cooperation activities that seek to remove barriers to participation in trade. The SME chapter commits the parties to creating a dedicated website to help SMEs take advantage of these agreements. This approach develops a network of free trade agreements that can be leveraged by SMEs, including those owned and operated by traditionally under-represented groups looking to expand their business operations to new regions, where agreements like the CPTPP, CUSMA and CETA will play a significant role. Additionally, Canada’s inclusive approach to trade includes integrating robust environmental provisions and fair labour standards into trade agreements. It also includes a CanExport concierge service to help Indigenous people, other visible minorities and women-owned businesses take full advantage of funding programs as they continue to seek growth opportunities during the pandemic.

Foreign direct investment is facilitated, expanded or retained

Global Affairs Canada works in partnership with Invest in Canada to increase foreign direct investment (FDI) to Canada. This year, the Government of Canada will implement its FDI Attraction Strategy to support Canada’s economic growth objectives, including sustainable and inclusive economic recovery. By aligning and guiding federal departments and agencies in attracting FDI, the Government of Canada aims to provide a simpler, seamless experience to global investors. The Strategy is aligned with the Economic Strategy Tables, a new model for collaboration between industry and government, focused on turning Canadian economic strengths into global advantages. As such, Global Affairs Canada will promote FDI in seven key sectors: advanced manufacturing, agri-food, clean technology, digital industries, health/bio-sciences, resources of the future, and tourism, among others. As well, through the CanExport Community Investments Program, the department will continue to assist Canadian communities to attract, retain and expand foreign investment.

Planned results for Trade and Investment
Departmental resultDepartmental result indicatorTargetDate to achieve target2017–18 actual result2018–19 actual result2019–20 actual result
5 This represents the target for permit processing for strategic and non-strategic permit applications combined; however, in certain cases the Department may not be in a position to meet these service standards.
6 Data is only available by calendar year. Statistical revisions are carried out regularly in the data source for this indicator. Therefore, in this table, past years’ values may differ from those published in previous reports (such as Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada’s Departmental Plan or Departmental Results Report).
Canada helps to build and safeguard an open and inclusive rules-based global trading system.Degree to which Canada opens markets and advances trade policy innovations through negotiations, agreements and discussions.4March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
44
Degree to which Canada works to resolve or mitigate market access barriers, disputes or other strategic policy issues.4March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
44
Percentage of applications for permits and certificates related to trade controls processed in accordance with service standards.590%March 31, 202296.9%98%98%
Canadian exporters and innovators are successful in their international business development efforts.Percentage of clients indicating satisfaction with the quality of services delivered by the Trade Commissioner Service.85%March 31, 202291.6%92%91%
Number of active business clients of the Trade Commissioner Service.17,000March 31, 202214,43715,95616,942
Value of Canada’s goods and services exports (in dollars).$820 BDecember 31, 2025$673 B (in 2017)$713 B (in 2018)$737.5 B (in 2019)6
Number of Canadian exporters.100,000December 31, 202586,000 (in 2017)45,081 (in 2018)45,533 (in 2019)6
Value of exports to overseas markets.50% increase from 2017 to $292 BDecember 31, 2025$194 B (in 2017)$210 B (in 2018)$216 B (in 2019)6
Number of concluded commercial agreements facilitated by the Trade Commissioner Service.1,500March 31, 20221,0191,1331,411
Number of international research and innovation partnerships facilitated by the Trade Commissioner Service.170March 31, 2022125152159
Foreign direct investment is facilitated, expanded or retained.Number of new foreign investments and expansions of existing foreign investments in Canada facilitated by the Trade Commissioner Service.150March 31, 2022138159128
Number of investor visits to Canada facilitated by the Trade Commissioner Service.225March 31, 2022184241235

Financial, human resources and performance information for the Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote iv

Planned budgetary financial resources for Trade and Investment
2021–22 budgetary spending (as indicated in Main Estimates)2021–22 planned spending2022–23 planned spending2023–24 planned spending
376,719,582376,719,582372,759,661349,153,321

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote v

Planned human resources for Trade and Investment
2021–22 planned full-time equivalents2022–23 planned full-time equivalents2023–24 planned full-time equivalents
2,1282,1152,113

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote vi

Development, Peace and Security Programming

Description

Global Affairs Canada programming contributes to reducing poverty, increasing opportunity for people around the world, alleviating suffering in humanitarian crises, and fostering peace and security, and in so doing, advances the Sustainable Development Goals.

Planning highlights

Canada will continue to prioritize implementation of its Feminist International Assistance Policy,Footnote vii which aims to contribute to building a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world, predicated on the conviction that gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls—both at home and abroad—is the best way to achieve this goal. Global Affairs Canada will continue to support Canada’s developing country partners in their efforts to tackle serious and pressing issues, including those related to climate change, poverty, poor governance, gender inequality, health, education, women’s economic empowerment and human rights. Canada’s human rights-based and intersectional feminist approach provides a solid framework for Canada’s efforts to meet the challenges of COVID-19 and address the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on marginalized groups and people in vulnerable situations. Efforts will continue to improve coherence in Canada’s humanitarian, development assistance and peace and stabilization programming.

Global efforts toward achieving progress on the UN 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are at risk of being set back by a decade due to the pandemic.Footnote viii In line with advancing the whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach to sustainable development, Global Affairs Canada will ensure that its policies and programs are progressive and responsive to the needs of vulnerable and marginalized populations, and will continue to do its part to accelerate progress toward the SDGs throughout the UN Decade of Action. To that end, the Government of Canada will support developing countries in their sustainable economic recoveries and improve their resilience to respond to the current global crisis. It will also seek to mobilize new and innovative forms of financing, encouraging private capital to expand to emerging and frontier markets.

Improved physical, social and economic well-being for the poorest and most vulnerable, particularly for women and girls, in countries where Canada engages

Global development challenges related to gender equality, climate change, biodiversity loss, security, health and income inequality have a disproportionate impact on the poor and most vulnerable, and have in many instances been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, school closures in response to the pandemic have led to a drastic reduction in access by women and girls to schooling and to essential health-care services. As well, women’s livelihoods are threatened by virus containment measures that have devastated informal economic sectors and have also increased the burden of unpaid care and domestic work. Global Affairs Canada will continue to seize the opportunity for Canada to play a leadership role to combat the pandemic itself, to respond to its secondary impacts and to promote post-pandemic economic recovery for developing countries. This includes through increased investments and multilateral solutions, ensuring efforts respond to and reach the most affected, particularly women and girls and those who face marginalization and vulnerabilities.

Although the global COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in severe economic disruption in developing countries, there is an opportunity to “rebuild better and greener”. Global Affairs Canada is working with local communities, Indigenous peoples, women’s rights advocates, and others, to implement lasting solutions to respond to the climate crisis, including support for livelihoods and resilience building. For example, the second phase of the Canadian Climate Fund for the Private Sector in Asia is funding the Spectra Solar Power Project in Bangladesh, conditional on the inclusion of gender equality measures. These measures include: an increase in the number of women employed by the project; the participation of local women in the project design, development, and implementation of social mitigation plans and measures; and increased awareness of gender-based violence among project employees, contractors, and affected communities. In collaboration with Environment and Climate Change Canada, the department will focus on indigenous perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in addressing climate change, as well as potential Indigenous approaches to inform international climate finance. Going forward, the government will continue engagement and dialogue with National Indigenous Organizations to shape new programming.  Canada is also supporting the Green Climate Fund (GCF), which has an important role in the green recovery. For example, the GCF is supporting countries’ efforts to design climate-friendly measures to revive economies. The GCF Readiness Program can be deployed quickly to help countries craft green and resilient recovery measures and incorporate them into their national emission reduction plans and stimulus packages.

The year 2021 marks the end of the Government of Canada’s five-year $2.65-billion commitment to finance climate action in developing countries as they transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient economies. To continue advancing this commitment, Global Affairs Canada conducted a series of public consultations. The department heard that Canada should urgently increase its investments in adaptation, that Canada should support gender-responsive climate action across all sectors, and that Canada should strategically leverage its convening power in international climate finance fora to advance international assistance priorities, including reaching the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people.

The African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, which entered into force in 2019, is expected to be a key tool to support Africa’s recovery from the economic impacts of COVID-19. Canada will continue to provide technical assistance and transfer knowledge to African Union Member States, training key stakeholders and undertaking advocacy to help African countries pursue the reforms needed to implement the Agreement effectively. This includes the integration of gender equality considerations into trade policy, lifting the often insurmountable barriers to African women’s full and equal participation in the benefits of regional trade.

Global education commitment

Women and girls continue to be the focus of the education commitment. Global Affairs Canada will invest 10% of its bilateral assistance on education.

In the year ahead, Global Affairs Canada’s high-level priorities for education will continue to centre on addressing barriers and ensuring improved access to quality education for the most marginalized, particularly girls, children with disabilities, and refugees and other forcibly displaced children and youth. This includes finalizing the delivery and continued monitoring of Canada’s $400 million investment toward the Charlevoix declaration on quality education for girls, adolescent girls and women in developing countries. Through the Charlevoix Education Initiative, Canada is aiming to dismantle barriers to and improve the quality of girls’ and women’s education and skills training in situations of conflict, crisis, and fragility. Canada will ensure global alignment with likeminded donors to increase international assistance for education, by contributing to global initiatives such as the replenishment of the Global Partnership for Education and Education Cannot Wait.

In February 2021, Canada launched a campaign focused on promoting quality education and lifelong learning for refugees and other forcibly displaced and host community children and youth. It will rely on partnerships with key Canadian and global stakeholders to advance commitments to the Global Compact for Refugees, leading up to the 2023 Global Refugee Forum. The campaign will focus on identifying new programming opportunities to support and empower local organizations working in the education sector that support refugee and internally displaced people. It will also include the initiation of partnerships to improve data and evidence around education for refugees and displaced children and the organization of a high-level event to drive forward this priority issue on a global scale.

Addressing critical gaps for those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the impacts of climate change

Canada recently announced four new projects in Burkina Faso to address critical gaps in sexual and reproductive health and rights, food security and agricultural resilience to climate change in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Sahel.

Canada’s longstanding support for the health, rights and well-being of women, children and adolescents is more important now than ever. Global Affairs Canada will support the global response to end the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic through investments in vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics and through strengthening health systems. To fight the pandemic, Canada will prioritize research, development, manufacturing, procurement and distribution for equitable global access to safe and secure vaccines, tests and treatments through the Access to COVID-19 Tools-Accelerator. In 2020-21 Canada committed $865 million to this WHO initiative, which will procure and equitably distribute vaccines, tests and treatments to the world, helping to ensure access to these lifesaving medical countermeasures for low and lower-middle income countries. Canada is a committed supporter of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation (CEPI), which is the designated lead for research, development, testing and licensing of COVID vaccines. Built on the principles of speed, scale and equitable access, CEPI is already supporting the research and development of a diverse portfolio of vaccines based on a range of vaccine approaches.

Canada’s COVID-19 response will be crucial in 2021-22; however, the department will ensure that advances in sexual and reproductive health and rights, nutrition, maternal, newborn and child health and the fight against other communicable diseases continue. Canada is entering the second year of a 10-year commitment to global health and rights (2020-2030) that will see funding raised to $1.4 billion per year by 2023-24, with $700 million of that amount dedicated to sexual and reproductive health and rights. As the department moves forward, it will continue to integrate sexual and reproductive health and rights into health systems around the world. This includes specific consideration of the needs, interests and lived experiences of LGBTQ2I persons, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and ethnic and religious minorities to ensure the realization of their human rights. More specifically, Canada will continue to support local and regional organizations and equality movements in developing countries to address the barriers to equality that continue to limit the ability for the LGBTQ2I to enjoy their human rights, both within Canada and around the world.

Enhanced empowerment and rights of women and girls in countries where Canada engages

Canada recognizes gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls as the most effective means of achieving lasting poverty reduction, sustainable development, and a better, more compassionate and resilient world. Canada is proud to be part of the movement to promote gender equality worldwide to bring about lasting transformational change. In 2021-22, Canada will be co-leading the Feminist movements and leadership Action Coalition as part of the Generation Equality Forum, and will be making concrete commitments to action at the June 2021 signature event in France.

Feminist International Assistance Policy targets

By 2021-22, Canada has committed to directing no less than 95% of Canada’s bilateral international development assistance toward initiatives that either target or include gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, of which 15% is to specifically target these goals.

Canada will continue to be a strong voice on the international stage for gender equality and will work to further leverage its position in key international institutions and fora, such as the UN, the Commonwealth, La Francophonie, international financial institutions, the G7 and the G20 to make real change for the rights and empowerment of women and girls.

The COVID-19 pandemic will have long-term repercussions for many, in particular for women and girls for whom gender inequalities have been worsened. Confinement and social distancing measures have led to an increase in gender-based violence, including harmful practices such as child, early and forced marriage and female genital mutilation/cutting. Global Affairs Canada will champion Canada’s leadership and engagement in this area, including in multilateral fora and through launching a photo exhibit on adolescent girls’ empowerment. The department will also continue to support programming and partners that work to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, harmful practices and violence against children, with a focus on rights of the child.

To help ensure that the pandemic does not compromise progress made on achieving gender equality, Global Affairs Canada will continue to prioritize initiatives that enhance the protection and promotion of women’s and girls’ rights, their full and equal participation in decision making and their equitable access to resources. This includes through strong support for the central role played by local women’s rights organizations and movements in leading the achievement of gender equality. Through its signature initiatives, the Women’s Voice and Leadership Program and the Equality Fund, Canada will continue to be a lead donor in addressing the funding gap experienced by women’s rights organizations and networks by providing them with direct funding and institutional support.

In 2021-22, through the Women’s Voice and Leadership Program, Canada will further expand its networks of women’s rights organizations in 30 developing countries and regions. Building on Canada’s experience in adapting to the COVID-19 crisis, the program will continue to provide a combination of flexible funding and capacity building to women’s rights organizations to support their resilience and their core mandate: human rights and justice for women and girls in all their diversity.

Through the Equality Fund, a first-of-its-kind innovative partnership for gender equality, Global Affairs Canada will continue to bring government, grants, philanthropy, and investment together into a single platform to mobilize unprecedented levels of resources in support of gender equality. This includes investing with a gender lens to ensure a sustainable source of funding to strengthen women’s organizations and movements. In 2021-2022, the Equality Fund plans to provide direct grants to women’s organizations in developing countries and core, multi-year resources to women’s funds. These women’s funds will in turn make grants to local women’s organizations, thus strengthening the feminist funding ecosystem.

The COVID-19 pandemic’s significant impacts on economic opportunities for women and girls in developing countries were deepened by the concurrent increased demand for care work; further increasing women’s time burden for care responsibilities and reducing their earning potential. That is why now is the time to redouble efforts to raise the profile of care work internationally and support new programming to address the challenges of care work.

Canada will continue to support economic growth programming that benefits everyone, including through the multilateral development banks.  For instance, Global Affairs Canada will continue to leverage the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative (We-Fi), hosted at the World Bank, to enhance women’s economic empowerment and opportunities. We-Fi seeks to address financial and non-financial constraints faced by women-owned and women-led SMEs in developing countries. Canada believes that when women and girls are given equal opportunities to succeed, they can transform their local economies and generate growth that benefits their communities and countries.

Reduced suffering and increased human dignity in communities experiencing humanitarian crises

To help those in need, Canada will continue to provide timely, needs-based, gender-responsive humanitarian assistance to help save lives, alleviate suffering and support the dignity of people whose lives are affected by natural disasters, conflicts and other crises. This assistance will reflect humanitarian principles and Canada’s deep commitment to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of humanitarian action.

Crises exacerbate harmful practices, discrimination, vulnerabilities, gender-based violence and inequitable access to opportunities, including education. The COVID-19 pandemic has created new and unique needs worldwide and has also significantly increased the needs and vulnerabilities of populations already facing other crises. In an effort to respond to the increased strain on a global humanitarian system, Global Affairs Canada will work with experienced UN, Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), and Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement partners to react rapidly and flexibly to provide immediate and life-saving support for crisis-affected populations. Recognizing the importance of local and international NGOs working on the front lines of humanitarian response, Global Affairs Canada will strengthen support to local partners and advocate for the inclusion of local and national responders in humanitarian responses.

Among several key priorities, the department will emphasize the need to respond to food insecurity, which is having a devastating impact on the most vulnerable communities across the globe. The department will continue to respond to the specific and intersectional needs and priorities of marginalized individuals and those in vulnerable situations, including through actions aimed at preventing, mitigating and responding to sexual and gender-based violence and harmful practices. In line with the recommendation by the 2019 OECD Development Assistance Committee on the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus, Canada will also implement a series of actions to improve coherence in its international assistance programming, in particular in fragile and conflict-affected states.

Improved peace and security in countries and regions where Canada engages

Global peace and security challenges, exacerbated by COVID-19, threaten to reverse progress on peace and stabilization in societies around the world. Canada is committed to addressing the drivers of conflict through gender responsive, integrated approaches to conflict prevention, stabilization and peacebuilding.

Canada will continue to promote peace and stability through the delivery of rapid, agile and catalytic programs and the deployment of police and civilian experts to fragile and conflict-affected states. Country-specific stabilization and crisis response will be undertaken in countries that require it. Canada will also support peacebuilding through a range of efforts that include targeted funding for grassroots women’s organizations; initiatives aimed at improving the effectiveness, efficiency and inclusiveness of UN peace operations; support to the Elsie Initiative Fund for Uniformed Women in Peace Operations; child protection, in particular preventing the recruitment and use of child soldiers; and, strengthening multilateral institutions critical to conflict prevention, conflict resolution, peacebuilding and sustaining peace. Global Affairs Canada will also provide multilateral and bilateral organizations with deployments through the Canadian Police Arrangement and the Civilian Deployments Platform.

Development assistance for women peacebuilders

In further support of gender equality, human rights and peace and stabilization, Global Affairs Canada will focus efforts to empower women in Bangladesh and Myanmar, including Rohingya women affected by violent conflict, to lead and participate in community-based peacebuilding and decision-making.

Canada will support women peacebuilders globally through new initiatives as well. In Sudan, the department will support enhanced women’s participation and the meaningful inclusion of gendered perspectives in Sudan’s political transition. Global Affairs Canada will support women peacebuilders in Cameroon through strategic accompaniment, skills development and organizational support in order to increase their meaningful participation in political decision-making processes. In addition, the department will help youth, women and local-authority peace ambassadors in Mali’s northern and central regions to increase community resilience in the face of disinformation.

To advance Canada’s commitment to a feminist approach to combatting transnational criminal and terrorist networks, including security vulnerabilities arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Anti-Crime and Counter-Terrorism Capacity Building programs will deliver gender-sensitive programming. Canada will work to strengthen resilience and support effective responses to international crime and terrorism, and by so doing, contribute to improving Canada’s national security and the security of Canadians abroad. The department will engage with trusted and new partners, including in the Middle East, East and West Africa, the Americas, and South and Southeast Asia. In support of global efforts to counter terrorism and in alignment with its commitment to the 2019 G7 Dinard declaration on the partnership for a comprehensive and sustainable strategy to combat illicit trafficking in the Sahel region, Canada continues to support ongoing projects in the Sahel, aiming to counter weapon supplies to terrorist and armed groups through cross-border monitoring and capacity-building assistance.

To prevent, detect and respond to infectious disease threats, Global Affairs Canada, through its Weapons Threat Reduction Program, will continue to demonstrate Canadian leadership and innovation in responding to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and deliver programing to strengthen global health security, including in Africa and the ASEAN countries.

In support of international arms control and to address issues related to the proliferation of weapons, the department will work to enhance a rules-based international system for non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament and to address threats posed by weapons of mass destruction. This includes strengthening the foundations of international arms control and disarmament, notably to reinforce the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. The department will continue to engage partners to support efforts to address biological threats including those at the interface between health and security; the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency, including the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization; and, endeavours to counter proliferation risks arising from Iran and North Korea.

Canada will also continue to play a leadership role in mitigating chemical weapons threats and restoring respect for the global norm against chemical weapons. Global Affairs Canada will also provide dedicated funding through the Promoting and Protecting Democracy Fund to aid in the prevention of emerging crises affecting democracies, including through strengthening electoral processes and combatting new and emerging threats to democracies.

Canada’s international assistance is made more effective by leveraging diverse partnerships, innovation, and experimentation

Business-as-usual approaches to eradicating extreme poverty globally will not succeed in meeting the ambitious goals as outlined in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, especially within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. To help alleviate some of the adverse impacts on the international assistance system as a result of the pandemic, Canada will continue to participate actively in global efforts aimed at eliminating poverty through innovative financing approaches, such as those employed in Global Affairs Canada’s International Assistance Innovation Program, the Sovereign Loans Program and the Equality Fund. Additionally, Global Affairs Canada will apply innovative financing mechanisms aimed at “rebuilding better and greener” for both people and the planet following the global COVID-19 pandemic. Over the course of the year, Canada will continue to promote and track innovation in international assistance, supporting new or improved locally driven solutions to achieve better results that benefit and support the empowerment of women and girls in all their diversity and all those who face discrimination or marginalization.

Guided by the Whistler principles to accelerate innovation for development impact, Global Affairs Canada will work with partners to improve service delivery, products and policies beyond those currently available, and will develop new partnerships and funding modalities, including public-private cooperation. The Small and Medium Organizations for Impact and Innovation initiative will continue to support the diversification of Canadian partnerships and the testing of innovations in international development.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic creates a complex and challenging environment for the delivery of international assistance, it also represents an unprecedented opportunity to uncover new and innovative approaches. Global Affairs Canada, in collaboration with partners, will continue to share experiences and insights within various communities of practice with a view to learning from mistakes, scaling what works, and identifying innovative and flexible approaches to project management in response to the pandemic and in the context of on-going streamlining processes. The department will continue to engage in dialogue and learning with Canadian partner organizations, and with the International Development Innovations Alliance, which brings together government and private donors to advance innovation in international assistance.

Global Affairs Canada will use experimentation as a valuable tool in the department’s efforts to further evidence-based decision making to deliver strong results for Canadians on its international agenda. Engaging with partners through innovation and experimentation will help the department to more effectively manage risks and identify opportunities to scale up effective innovations, particularly in the context of post-pandemic recovery.

Planned results for Development, Peace and Security Programming
Departmental resultDepartmental result indicatorTargetDate to achieve target2017–18 actual result2018–19 actual result2019–20 actual result
7 Data collected on the indicators that have “individuals” as a unit of measure were disaggregated by gender using the male and female categories. Gender-disaggregated data is not systematically collected and/or reported by some of our partners. A “gender not indicated” category will be used to denote where gender-disaggregated data was unavailable for the reported indicator.
8 Results prior to 2021-22 based on previous indicator: Number of graduates (m/f) of GAC supported, demand driven, technical and vocational education and training. Target reflects updated indicator and methodology.
9 The significant difference from the 2018-19 result is partially due to the closure of a large initiative in 2019-20, which accounted for almost half of the 2018-19 result.
10 Results prior to 2021-22 based on previous indicator: Number of people (m/f) receiving micronutrient supplementation, including iron and folic acid, through GAC programming. Target reflects updated indicator and methodology.
11 The significant difference from the 2018-19 result is partially due to a change in methodology of the indicator.
12 The proposed target is based on data collected for 2019-2020 and the fact that access to financial and business development services could be impacted for a 2-3 year period by COVID.
13 Canada's $2.65 billion climate finance commitment will end in FY 2020-21 and new funding is to be approved. This indicator and target may be adjusted in fall 2021 to reflect Canada's future climate finance programming.
14 New results are expected to become available in early 2021.
15 Establishing a target for this indicator is not appropriate, as data is dependent on the number and/or intensity of emergencies that occur during the year.
16 Establishing a target for this indicator is not appropriate, as data is dependent on the number and/or intensity of emergencies that occur during the year.
17 Establishing a target for this indicator is not appropriate as the number will vary from year over year depending on the humanitarian need.
18 Results prior to 2021-22 based on previous indicator: Number of women and girls who have received sexual and reproductive health services through a GAC-funded humanitarian response delivered by Civil Society Organizations.
19 Canada, and GAC, have not committed to a target. However, the baseline data is useful is assessing where Canada/GAC stand vis-à-vis other donors.
20 It is not appropriate to set a target for this indicator as it is difficult to predict how many of these projects GAC will have in its portfolio in a given year. Funding to national and international investigations is demand-driven and in response to the shifting international landscape.
Improved physical, social and economic well-being for the poorest and most vulnerable, particularly for women and girls, in countries where Canada engages.Number of people7 trained in demand-driven technical and vocational education and training.893,000March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
92,94342,3109 (18,105 women; 16.611 men; 7,594 gender not indicated)
Number of people7 reached with nutrition-specific interventions.10200 MMarch 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
1.2 B9.5 M11 (8.5 M women; 0.9 M men; 164 K gender not indicated)
Number of entrepreneurs, farmers and smallholders7 (m/f) provided with financial and/or business development services through GAC-funded projects.1 M12March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
3.5 M5.2 M (0.7 M women; 0.9 M men; 35 K gender not indicated)
Number of individuals with an enhanced awareness, knowledge or skills to promote women’s participation and leadership in public life.Obtain baseline informationNot applicableNot available
New indicator
Number of beneficiaries (m/f) from climate adaptation projects supported by GAC.TBD13Not available
New indicator
4.6 MNot available14
Enhanced empowerment and rights for women and girls in countries where Canada engages.Percentage of countries that show a decrease in the adolescent fertility rate (number of births/1000 women).80%March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
76%62%
Number of women’s organizations and women’s networks advancing women's rights and gender equality that receive GAC support for programming and/or institutional strengthening.500March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
453868
Reduced suffering and increased human dignity in communities experiencing humanitarian crises.Number of beneficiaries that receive emergency food and nutrition assistance in relation to need and in consideration of international response.Not applicable1591.4 M (in 2017)86.7 M (in 2018)97.1 M
Number of refugees and internally displaced persons assisted and protected.Not applicable16Refugees assisted: 11.9 M
IDPs protected/assisted: 39.1 M (in 2017)
Refugees assisted: 12.5 M
IDPs protected/assisted: 41.4 M (in 2018)
Refugees assisted: 12.2 M
IDPs protected/assisted: 43.5 M (in 2019)
Number of people who have received sexual and reproductive health services, including access to contraception, through a humanitarian response delivered by Civil Society Organizations.Not applicable17Not available
New indicator
337,168390,79818
Improved peace and security in countries and regions where Canada engages.Percentage of international assistance that targets fragile and conflict-affected states.Not applicable1961%59%55%
Number of Canadian supported interventions taken by partners to prevent, detect and/or respond to crime, terrorism, and the proliferation of weapons, including weapons of mass destruction and related materials.299March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
222233
The amount of international assistance funds ($) invested by Global Affairs Canada in international and national efforts to investigate and prosecute crimes committed in situations of violent conflict, including crimes involving sexual and gender-based violence.Not applicable20Not available
New indicator
Canada’s international assistance is made more effective by leveraging diverse partnerships, innovation, and experimentation.Number of new partners that receive GAC support for programming in the delivery of international assistance, disaggregated by type.52March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
Total 61 new partners:
15 Civil Society (Canadian);
27 Civil Society (Foreign);
2 Government (Canadian);
4 Government (Foreign);
8 Multilateral;
3 Private Sector (Canadian);
2 Private Sector (Foreign)
Number of initiatives implementing innovative solutions in the delivery of international assistance.100March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
27468

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote ix

Planned budgetary financial resources for Development, Peace and Security Programming
2021–22 budgetary spending (as indicated in Main Estimates)2021–22 planned spending2022–23 planned spending2023–24 planned spending
4,015,547,6044,015,547,6044,237,525,5734,286,264,626

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote x

Planned human resources for Development, Peace and Security Programming
2021–22 planned full-time equivalents2022–23 planned full-time equivalents2023–24 planned full-time equivalents
1,1351,1351,135

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote xi

Help for Canadians Abroad

Description

Global Affairs Canada provides timely and appropriate consular services for Canadians abroad, contributing to their safety and security.

Planning highlights

The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has called for an unprecedented response, including the largest peacetime repatriation operation in our history. This and other concurrent world events have highlighted the vital importance of Global Affairs Canada’s consular services for millions of Canadians who travel, live and work abroad. The department remains strongly committed to providing responsive bilingual consular and emergency services in a complex and evolving international landscape. The department will continue to provide client-focused services to Canadians abroad, as committed to in our established consular service standards.

Canadians have timely access to information and services that keeps them safer abroad

Global Affairs Canada will provide timely and relevant information before and during travel to ensure Canadians make informed decisions and receive consular assistance if the need arises. These efforts will address existing and emerging issues that affect Canadians and include ongoing consular advocacy and diplomacy as well as the development of strategic partnerships with key stakeholders in Canada and abroad. The efforts will be guided by the pillars of Canada’s Consular Strategy: client-focussed services, consular diplomacy in action, active engagement, targeted partnerships and robust program framework.

Increased outreach via social media platforms

Global Affairs Canada is expanding its communications with all Canadians by expanding its use of social media platforms – including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp and SMS, to ensure Canadians are informed no matter where they are in the world.

The department’s Travel Advice and Advisories are a trusted source of information for millions of Canadians who travel abroad. The department will enhance its active engagement with Canadians and will continue to share up-to-date information, including during crises and significant events, through the department’s Travel Advice and AdvisoriesFootnote xii portal. Canadians will continue to benefit from travel information updates through the department’s Facebook and Twitter accounts, proactive messages to the Registration of Canadians Abroad system, 24/7 support from the Emergency Watch and Response Centre, and Canada’s global network of consular officials.

Millions of Canadians live and travel abroad and may seek consular services in more complex circumstances. Global Affairs Canada will continue to deliver relevant and accessible consular services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with the understanding that the types of situations for which Canadians seek consular assistance may impact individuals differently. In this context, the consular program strives to provide appropriate assistance to all Canadians, to the best of our abilities, including vulnerable clients in potentially vulnerable situations, including women, children, those dealing with mental health issues, and members of the LGBTQ2I community. Global Affairs Canada’s consular assistance takes into account factors related to individual circumstances, as well as local contexts.

The department will enhance its capacity to maintain a sustainable level of whole-of-government international emergency preparedness and response capacity, including in locations where the Government of Canada has limited presence. When Canadians are affected by a crisis or emergency event abroad, Global Affairs Canada’s highly trained and capable team of emergency core responders will be ready 24/7 to assist Canadians, including their loved ones in Canada. The department will keep in close contact with our global network of missions, improve the network’s data collection, amplify missions’ social media content and collaborate with other departments to ensure that information and assistance is available for Canadians.

To address the unprecedented consular challenges that have emerged in recent years, the department will engage with federal, provincial, territorial and local governments, private sector and civil society organizations in a comprehensive and strategic manner. Canada will also raise awareness and advocate for the rights of individuals experiencing coercive arbitrary detention.  The susceptibility of people traveling, working and living abroad to coercive arbitrary detention has demonstrated the need for an international response. Actions to coerce another country by arbitrarily arresting, detaining or sentencing their nationals violates individual human rights, undermines bilateral relations between countries and erodes trust in the rules-based international order. A common front of countries coordinating efforts against arbitrary detention will serve to deter this practice and reduce its effectiveness as a tool for governments to leverage other states. Global Affairs Canada will leverage the leadership role that Canada has already established for itself around the world to conduct consular diplomacy to better serve Canadians.

Canadians abroad receive timely and appropriate government services

Global Affairs Canada will continue to provide timely and appropriate consular services to Canadians abroad, respecting the established service standards. The department has responded to the global pandemic by adjusting the ways consular officials receive and interact with Canadians in order to maintain access to essential services. As the global pandemic continues to evolve, Global Affairs Canada will continue to deliver consular services in a manner that reflects the needs of Canadians and local public health conditions.

To enhance consular service delivery, Global Affairs Canada will launch a new and improved case, contact and emergency management system, which will enable the department to collect more timely and relevant information in support of Canadians seeking assistance for urgent and complex situations.

Canadians abroad rely on passport and citizenship services provided by Global Affairs Canada on behalf of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. To support the provision of these programs, Global Affairs Canada will continue to strengthen its passport and citizenship services abroad to meet established service standards. The department will work closely with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to ensure our missions abroad receive operational support, forward-looking training and the policy guidance required to deliver services in a timely and efficient way.

While many Canadians are aware of the heads of missions and consul generals who lead Canada’s presence in missions abroad, many may not be aware of the network of honorary consuls who also deliver essential services to Canadian citizens abroad. These honorary consuls have been a critical part of Canada’s response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, providing consular assistance and support for repatriation, in locations where Canada has a limited presence. In the year ahead, the department will enhance support and oversight to this network and explore expanding to new locations to strengthen service delivery to Canadians.

Planned results for Help for Canadians Abroad
Departmental resultDepartmental result indicatorTargetDate to achieve target2017–18 actual result2018–19 actual result2019–20 actual result
21 Establishing a target for this indicator is not appropriate, as data is dependent on the number and/or intensity of emergencies that occur during the year.
22 These results have been broken down to align with the revised consular service standards that were implemented on April 1, 2019. The citizenship indicator is now used for internal operational guidance only and results are no longer publicly available.
Canadians have timely access to information and services that keeps them safer abroad.Number of Canadians who use the department’s travel outreach products, including digital initiativesAnnual visits to travel.gc.ca: 5% increase;March 31, 202212% increase (16,048,226 visits)8% increase (17,400,00 visits)76.67% increase (30,730,857 visits)
Total installations of Travel Smart App annually: 4% increase;57% increase (83,741)29% increase (108,437)141% increase (30,829 IoS installations)
92% (20,621 Android installations)
Social media followers: 5% increase8% increase (317,645)9% increase (344,740)18% increase (407,024)
Percentage of consular cases actioned within the established service standards90%March 31, 2022Not available
New Indicator
Initial response (within one business day) for consular cases: 97%
Within one month of detention: 98%
Within one month of sentencing: 95%
Within three months after transfer: 95%
Annually: 95%
Number of Canadians who have been assisted through the 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response CentreNot applicable2145,87540,102 calls handled
66,627 emails processed
29,646 cases managed
126,446 calls handled
38,435 emails handled
7,080 cases managed
Number of employees trained and available to deploy in response to a crisis.2,300 people trained and 75 exercises completedMarch 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
Canadians abroad receive timely and appropriate government servicesPercentage of Canadian clients who expressed satisfaction with the service(s) received90%March 31, 202291%94%95%
Percentage of passport applications that are processed within service standards90%March 31, 2022Passports: 86%
Citizenship: 88%
Passports: 94%
Citizenship: 82%
Passports Regular: 97.5%
Temporary: 99.5%
Emergency: 99.4%
Citizenship: N/A
Specialized services: Private financial services: 90%
Notarial services: 96%22

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote xiii

Planned budgetary financial resources for Help for Canadians Abroad
2021–22 budgetary spending (as indicated in Main Estimates)2021–22 planned spending2022–23 planned spending2023–24 planned spending
53,869,51853,869,51853,912,96953,316,884

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote xiv

Planned human resources for Help for Canadians Abroad
2021–22 planned full-time equivalents2022–23 planned full-time equivalents2023–24 planned full-time equivalents
401398398

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote xv

Support for Canada’s Presence Abroad

Description

Global Affairs Canada manages and delivers resources, infrastructure and services enabling Canada’s presence abroad, including at embassies, high commissions, and consulates.

Planning highlights

Given the current global context, it has become increasingly crucial to ensure the effective and efficient operations of Canada’s robust and agile global network of missions, embassies, high commissions and consulates abroad. These missions are essential to serve Canadians, to support Canadian businesses to reach global markets, and to improve the lives of the poorest and people in vulnerable situations around the world. The department will deliver more robust security measures and efficient and cost effective common services and infrastructure to achieve and monitor progress against planned results.

Sound management and delivery of resources, infrastructure and services enables Canada’s presence abroad

Canada’s presence in missions abroad goes beyond the employees of Global Affairs Canada and our Locally Engaged Staff, but can also include other government departments providing services to Canadians and representing Canada’s interests. Global Affairs Canada provides common services to support Canada’s diverse representatives at missions so that Canada’s objectives are attained in a way that is seamless and cost-effective. The department will continue to focus on improving the management and delivery of common services, including the management of its real property portfolio, by developing and leveraging enhanced business analytics systems and tools, developing a new policy suite, and evolving its Common Service Delivery Framework.

Global Affairs Canada will continue to strengthen its real property portfolio to meet the realities and challenges of an ever-changing global environment through forward-looking, evidence-based multi-year planning. This includes modernizing the network of missions, enhancing our focus on financial and environmental sustainability, as well as embedding physical safety and security as key components of all real property portfolio management decisions.

Global Affairs Canada’s Digital Strategy, which includes initiatives aimed at increasing the capabilities and productivity of its workforce at home and abroad, will also help modernize the network of missions. The Digital Strategy covers four areas of focus: partnering with programs to build people-centred digital solutions; enabling a digital culture through tools, skills and behavioural change; improving service delivery through simplified processes and technology; and building a resilient secure technology infrastructure. By concentrating on these four areas, the current network, both at the infrastructure and application level, will better position the department to be digitally enabled and more secure over the long term. Modernizing the tools employees use will allow them to increase their capacity and efficiency, as well as digitally enable them to support Canada’s presence abroad to better respond to and serve Canadians.

Global Affairs Canada is committed to further improving and innovating services for Government of Canada employees at missions through ongoing engagement with both Locally Engaged Staff (LES) and Canada-Based Staff (CBS). The LES workforce comprising over 5,400 members provides critical program delivery, information technology, administrative, consular and other services at missions in support of both Global Affairs Canada and other Canadian government programs. Consultations with LES and with key partners have led to new milestones in the reform of how this important workforce is managed. In 2021-22, this will include improvements to policies supporting compensation, employment and staffing, labour relations, and pension and insurance benefits for LES. The department recognizes that there is still significant work to be done to address the ongoing viability of the LES benefits program and to improve how this workforce is treated compared to other workforces of the Government of Canada.

Personnel are safe, missions are more secure and government and partner assets and information are protected

Ensuring the health, safety and security of CBS and their dependents, as well as LES, at missions is a high priority and a great challenge in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The department is investing in the safety and security of personnel by providing tools and technologies to enhance the ability to work remotely during the pandemic and making sure that employees working in missions abroad have access to the protective equipment that they need. Security at missions will continue to be managed during the pandemic through a more secure cloud-first focus at missions, enabling employees to work safely from home. Providing safe and productive working environments through the distribution of protective equipment to employees such as acrylic barriers, hand sanitizer and face masks will continue in 2021-22 to ensure business continuity at missions.

Sustainable development at missions abroad

In 2021-22, Global Affairs Canada will implement initiatives in support of the UN 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals, including a climate change adaptation and mitigation investment plan, LED lighting conversion and Building Operators and Managers Association BEST certification at missions.

Global Affairs Canada is contributing to the Government of Canada’s efforts at greening government operations, prioritizing the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through the implementation of the Sustainable Development Strategic Framework (SDSF). Each mission will undergo energy, water and waste audits to continue the application of green building certification named as the Building Operators and Managers Association Best (BOMA BEST). Additionally, as part of the SDSF we will continue with the implementation of several green pilot projects, such as storm water management systems, energy metering and electricity grid independence.

In order to strengthen security measures at embassies, high commissions and consulates, significant investments are being made to improve security services, upgrade infrastructure, improve the procurement process while maintaining international best practices, and improve emergency readiness and training programs. Mandatory training for staff being posted abroad, especially to designated high and critical threat missions, will remain a key element of Global Affairs Canada pre-posting practices. In addition, the department will continue focusing efforts to ensure that all missions have a valid, intelligence-based threat assessment.

Additionally, Global Affairs Canada will identify alternative ways to provide project support services and enhanced oversight through more interactive communication means. The use of videoconference services through Microsoft Teams has been essential to remote working during the onset of the pandemic and will remain in use given the evolving security environment and pandemic restrictions at missions. At the same time, it remains necessary to maintain and modernize the tools necessary to ensure access to modern highly classified communications and information within missions abroad, as well as ensuring that these are well protected.

In the context of the evolving global pandemic and related travel and air space restrictions, Global Affairs Canada will continue to explore innovative ways to provide diplomatic mail services to our partners through the enhanced use of global positioning technology, integrity bag solutions and risk assessment.

Planned results for Support for Canada’s Presence Abroad
Departmental resultDepartmental result indicatorTargetDate to achieve target2017–18 actual result2018–19 actual result2019–20 actual result
Sound management and delivery of resources, infrastructure and services enables Canada’s presence abroad.Percentage of partner organizations, indicating the resources, infrastructure, and services provided abroad met their needs.75%March 31, 2022Not available
New Indicator
72%79%
Percentage of the replacement value of the department’s real property portfolio spent on repairs, maintenance, and recapitalization.2%March 31, 20221%1.4%1.6%
Percentage of Crown owned properties abroad that were rated in good and fair condition based on the condition categories in the Directory of Federal Real Property.85%March 31, 202288.1%88%90%
Personnel are safe, missions are more secure and government and partner assets and information are protected.Proportion of security risk mitigation measures that address the priority risks identified in the Departmental Security Plan that are implemented.75%March 31, 2022Not available
New indicator
68

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote xvi

Planned budgetary financial resources for Support for Canada’s Presence Abroad
2021–22 budgetary spending (as indicated in Main Estimates)2021–22 planned spending2022–23 planned spending2023–24 planned spending
1,071,320,1671,071,320,1671,092,279,6691,067,031,984

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote xvii

Planned human resources for Supporting for Canada’s Presence Abroad
2021–22 planned full-time equivalents2022–23 planned full-time equivalents2023–24 planned full-time equivalents
4,4924,4844,478

Financial, human resources and performance information for Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote xviii

Internal Services: planned results

Description

Internal Services are those groups of related activities and resources that the federal government considers to be services in support of Programs and/or required to meet corporate obligations of an organization. Internal Services refers to the activities and resources of the 10 distinct services that support Program delivery in the organization, regardless of the Internal Services delivery model in a department. These services are:

Planning highlights

The smooth and efficient operation of the department’s internal services is foundational to the achievement of its overall mandate and results. To ensure the good functioning of the department, the main corporate priorities that will guide the internal services in 2021-22 are:

1. Fostering an ethical, respectful, diverse, inclusive, healthy and resilient workplace for all employees

Global Affairs Canada strives to create a culture for a high-performing workplace that promotes ethics, respect, diversity, health and well-being through collaboration, inclusivity and respect. Providing tools and flexibility for managers and employees to work virtually, including moving learning opportunities to virtual methods where it makes sense, will continue. Supported by the efforts of the Anti-Racism Secretariat, the department will continue to ensure its own workplace reflects the values of respect, human rights, equity, diversity, representation and inclusion that it promotes internationally. Balancing the achievement of the department’s mandate and the health and safety of employees during the COVID-19 pandemic will be key to ensuring a high-performing workplace in 2021-22.

2. Ensuring the safety and security of employees at HQ and abroad

Global Affairs Canada’s network of missions abroad is critical to the success of Canada’s international goals: providing services for Canadians abroad, forging new export and business opportunities for Canadian firms, engaging with the international community, and helping those in need. We know that working abroad carries risks, especially in an increasingly volatile global security environment. The pandemic has not only exacerbated risks for those working at missions, but has introduced new health and safety risks for those working at headquarters. In 2021-22, Global Affairs Canada will continue to put the safety and security of employees foremost, including in supporting remote work and facilitating the return to the workplace, as well as ensuring that adequate facilities and infrastructure are in place for work that simply cannot be done remotely, in particular where access to highly classified systems is required.

3. Driving digital adoption and leveraging data and technology to enable a culture of flexibility, collaboration, transparency and innovation

Global Affairs Canada is embracing new ways of working and delivering services to Canada and Canadians through digital adoption. To support the future of work across its international network, Global Affairs Canada will strive to advance digital adoption by:

Enterprise risk management

The department continues to introduce new approaches to improve and secure its results, including a revamped enterprise risk management strategy informed by data that identifies strategic risks that are cross-cutting to the department’s mandate and could jeopardize multiple objectives if they were to occur.

To better support the advancement of its priorities in 2021-22, the department will continue to prioritize its people through risks management: building a workforce to meet current and future departmental needs and protecting the health, safety and well-being of its employees. The department will also mitigate the impact of both known and unknown risks through continued focus and resilience in the areas of management of real property and assets, cyber and digital security, and digital transformations.

These areas of focus for our strategic risk mitigation efforts will enable the department to promote the sound management of people, finances and assets; limit vulnerabilities in people and systems; and, shift to new modes of digital service delivery to support agility, decision-making and stewardship of assets.

The department will monitor its response to these risks on a quarterly basis and review the department’s top risks annually.

Planned budgetary financial resources for Internal Services
2021–22 budgetary spending (as indicated in Main Estimates)2021–22 planned spending2022–23 planned spending2023–24 planned spending
276,751,749276,751,749276,886,244272,509,008
Planned human resources for Internal Services
2021–22 planned full-time equivalents2022–23 planned full-time equivalents2023–24 planned full-time equivalents
1,9481,9151,899

Spending and human resources

This section provides an overview of the department’s planned spending and human resources for the next three consecutive fiscal years and compares planned spending for the upcoming year with the current and previous years’ actual spending.

Planned spending

The following graph presents planned (voted and statutory) spending over time.

Departmental spending 2018–19 to 2023–24

Text version
Planned spending2018-20192019-20202020-20212021-20222022-20232023-2024
Statutory453.0442.5443.5377.3377.1375.8
Voted6,603.86,734.58,872.86,346.06,583.96,575.2
Total7,056.97,176.99,316.36,732.26,961.06,951.0

From 2020-21 to 2023-24, Global Affairs Canada’s spending profile varies from $9.3 billion in 2020-21 to $7.0 billion in 2023-24.

Significant items contributing to the decrease in spending of $2,365 million include the following:

These decreases are offset by an increase of $141 million to support the Feminist International Assistance Policy.

Expenditures for 2018-19 and 2019-20 reflect the financial information previously reported in the Departmental Results Reports and the Public Accounts.

The following table shows actual, forecast and planned spending for each of Global Affairs Canada’s core responsibilities and to Internal Services for the years relevant to the current planning year.

Budgetary planning summary for core responsibilities and Internal Services (dollars)
Core responsibilities and Internal Services2018–19 expenditures2019–20 expenditures2020–21 forecast spending2021–22 budgetary spending (as indicated in Main Estimates)2021–22 planned spending2022–23 planned spending2023–24 planned spending
1. International Advocacy and Diplomacy965,987,674942,662,1711,009,440,617929,029,444929,029,444927,622,270922,729,114
2. Trade and Investment320,245,224350,954,383372,936,370376,719,582376,719,582372,759,661349,153,321
3. Development, Peace and Security Programming4,428,638,2964,488,445,1286,393,308,0134,015,547,6044,015,547,6044,237,525,5734,286,264,626
4. Help for Canadians Abroad57,301,64176,510,527117,121,53153,869,51853,869,51853,912,96953,316,884
5. Support for Canada's Presence Abroad1,037,339,9021,049,692,0861,100,474,1011,071,320,1671,071,320,1671,092,279,6691,067,031,984
Subtotal6,809,512,7376,908,264,2958,993,280,6326,446,486,3156,446,486,3156,684,100,1426,678,495,929
Internal Services247,362,565268,638,903323,004,685276,751,749276,751,749276,886,244272,509,008
Total7,056,875,3027,176,903,1989,316,285,3176,723,238,0646,723,238,0646,960,986,3866,951,004,937

Planned human resources

The following table shows actual, forecast and planned full-time equivalents (FTEs) for each core responsibility in Global Affairs Canada’s departmental results framework and to Internal Services for the years relevant to the current planning year.

Human resources planning summary for core responsibilities and Internal Services
Core responsibilities and Internal Services2018–19 actual full time equivalents2019–20 actual full time equivalents2020–21 forecast full time equivalents2021–22 planned full time equivalents2022–23 planned full time equivalents2023–24 planned full time equivalents
1. International Advocacy and Diplomacy2,4142,3192,4372,3992,4002,399
2. Trade and Investment1,8992,0382,0992,1282,1152,113
3. Development, Peace and Security Programming1,0121,0971,1471,1351,1351,135
4. Help for Canadians Abroad371398397401398398
5. Support for Canada's Presence Abroad4,4714,4824,4034,4924,4844,478
Subtotal10,16710,33410,48310,55510,53210,523
Internal Services1,5121,8241,8591,9481,9151,899
Grand Total11,67912,15812,34212,50312,44712,422

From 2018-19 to 2023-24, Global Affairs Canada’s full-time equivalents (FTEs) increased by 743 (6.4 %) to deliver new programs and initiatives in support of the department’s mandate and priorities. The year-over-year variance in the number of FTEs is attributable to the following initiatives:

Estimates by vote

Information on Global Affairs Canada’s organizational appropriations is available in the 2021–22 Main Estimates.Footnote xix

Future-oriented Condensed Statement of Operations

The Future-oriented Condensed Statement of Operations provides an overview of Global Affairs Canada’s operations for 2020–21 to 2021–22.

The amounts for forecast and planned results in this statement of operations were prepared on an accrual basis. The amounts for forecast and planned spending presented in other sections of the Departmental Plan were prepared on an expenditure basis. Amounts may therefore differ.

A more detailed future‑oriented statement of operations and associated notes, including a reconciliation of the net cost of operations to the requested authorities, are available on Global Affairs Canada’s website.Footnote xx

Future-oriented Condensed Statement of Operations for the year ending March 31, 2022 (in thousands of dollars)
Financial information2020–21 forecast results2021–22 planned resultsDifference (2021–22 planned results minus 2020–21 forecast results)
Total expenses8,336,3386,506,071(1,830,267)
Total revenues43,43146,3452,914
Net cost of operations before government funding and transfers8,292,9076,459,726(1,833,181)

The decrease of $1,833 million (2021–22 Planned Results, when compared to the 2020–21 Forecast Results) of the Net cost of operations before government funding and transfers is mainly attributable to:

Corporate information

Organizational profile

Appropriate ministers: Marc Garneau, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade and Karina Gould, Minister of International Development.

Institutional head: Marta Morgan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs; John F.G. Hannaford, Deputy Minister of International Trade; and, Leslie MacLean, Deputy Minister of International Development.

Ministerial portfolio: Global Affairs Canada and the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service. The following federal entities operate at arm’s length and report to Parliament through the Global Affairs Canada ministers: the Canadian Commercial Corporation, Export Development Canada, the International Development Research Centre, and Invest in Canada.

Enabling instrument: Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act, S.C. 2013, c. 33, s. 174Footnote xxi

Year of incorporation / commencement: 1909

Raison d’être, mandate and role: who we are and what we do

“Raison d’être, mandate and role: who we are and what we do” is available on Global Affairs Canada’s website.Footnote xxii

For more information on the department’s organizational mandate letter commitments, see the “Ministers’ mandate letters”.Footnote xxiii

Operating context

Information on the operating context is available on Global Affairs Canada’s website.Footnote xxiv

Reporting framework

Global Affairs Canada’s approved departmental results framework and program inventory for 2021–22 are as follows.

Departmental Results Framework
Core ResponsibilityDepartmental ResultIndicator
Core Responsibility 1: International Advocacy and DiplomacyCanada builds and maintains constructive relationships that advance Canada’s interests.Percentage of advocacy campaigns which met their stated objectives.
Percentage of diplomatic activities which met their stated objectives.
Number of international commitments through which Canada works with partners to address strategic peace and security challenges.
Canada’s leadership on global issues contributes to a just and inclusive world.Number of influencers reached through Canadian-hosted events, including events on women’s empowerment and rights and gender equality.
Percentage of Canadian-led decisions introduced through international and regional organizations that are accepted.
Number of Canadians in leadership positions in international institutions.
Canada helps build strong international institutions and respect for international law.Percentage of organizations of which Canada is a member, which receive a positive performance rating on any independent evaluation.
Number of actions that are led or supported by Canada which support strengthened adherence to international law.
Degree to which Canadian positions on international legal issues are reflected in the outcome of discussions and negotiations, such as agreements, arrangements and resolutions.
Canada’s global influence is expanded and strengthened.Ranking of Canada’s global presence as reflected by our participation in the global economy, our military presence and our people-to-people ties.
Ranking of Canada’s reputation abroad as reported in global opinion polls.
Percentage of Canadians who are satisfied with Canada’s international engagement.
Core Responsibility 2: Trade and InvestmentCanada helps to build and safeguard an open and inclusive rules-based global trading system.Degree to which Canada opens markets and advances trade policy innovations through negotiations, agreements and discussions.
Degree to which Canada works to resolve or mitigate market access barriers, disputes or other strategic policy issues.
Percentage of applications for permits and certificates related to trade controls processed in accordance with service standards.
Canadian exporters and innovators are successful in their international business development efforts.Percentage of clients indicating satisfaction with the quality of services delivered by the Trade Commissioner Service.
Number of active business clients of the Trade Commissioner Service.
Value of Canada’s goods and services exports (in dollars).
Number of Canadian exporters.
Value of exports to overseas markets.
Number of concluded commercial agreements facilitated by the Trade Commissioner Service.
Number of international research and innovation partnerships facilitated by the Trade Commissioner Service.
Foreign direct investment is facilitated, expanded or retained.Number of new foreign investments and expansions of existing foreign investments in Canada facilitated by the Trade Commissioner Service.
Number of investor visits to Canada facilitated by the Trade Commissioner Service.
Core Responsibility 3: Development, Peace and Security ProgrammingImproved physical, social and economic well-being for the poorest and most vulnerable, particularly for women and girls, in countries where Canada engages.Number of people trained in demand driven, technical and vocational education and training.
Number of people reached with nutrition-specific interventions.
Number of entrepreneurs, farmers and smallholders (m/f) provided with financial and/or business development services through GAC-funded projects.
Number of individuals with an enhanced awareness, knowledge or skills to promote women’s participation and leadership in public life.
Number of beneficiaries (m/f) from climate adaptation projects supported by GAC.
Enhanced empowerment and rights for women and girls in countries where Canada engages.Percentage of countries that show a decrease in the adolescent fertility rate (number of births/1000 women).
Number of women’s organizations and women’s networks advancing women's rights and gender equality that receive GAC support for programming and/or institutional strengthening.
Reduced suffering and increased human dignity in communities experiencing humanitarian crises.Number of beneficiaries that receive emergency food and nutrition assistance in relation to need and in consideration of international response.
Number of refugees and internally displaced persons assisted and protected.
Number of people who have received sexual and reproductive health services, including access to contraception, through a humanitarian response delivered by Civil Society Organizations.
Improved peace and security in countries and regions where Canada engages.Percentage of international assistance that targets fragile and conflict-affected states.
Number of Canadian supported interventions taken by partners to prevent, detect and/or respond to crime, terrorism, and the proliferation of weapons, including weapons of mass destruction and related materials.
The amount of international assistance funds ($) invested by Global Affairs Canada in international and national efforts to investigate and prosecute crimes committed in situations of violent conflict, including crimes involving sexual and gender-based violence.
Canada’s international assistance is made more effective by leveraging diverse partnerships, innovation, and experimentation.Number of new partners that receive GAC support for programming in the delivery of international assistance, disaggregated by type.
Number of initiatives implementing innovative solutions in the delivery of international assistance.
Core Responsibility 4: Help for Canadians abroadCanadians have timely access to information and services that keeps them safer abroad.Number of Canadians who use the department’s travel outreach products, including digital initiatives.
Percentage of consular cases actioned within the established service standards.
Number of Canadians who have been assisted through the 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
Number of employees trained and available to deploy in response to a crisis.
Canadians abroad receive timely and appropriate government services.Percentage of Canadian clients who expressed satisfaction with the service(s) received.
Percentage of passport applications that are processed within service standards.
Core Responsibility 5: Support for Canada’s Presence AbroadSound management and delivery of resources, infrastructure, and services enables Canada’s presence abroad.Percentage of partner organizations, indicating the resources, infrastructure, and services provided abroad met their needs.
Percentage of the replacement value of the department’s real property portfolio spent on repairs, maintenance, and recapitalization.
Percentage of Crown-owned properties abroad that were rated in good and fair condition based on the condition categories in the Directory of Federal Real Property.
Personnel are safe, missions are more secure and government and partner assets and information are protected.Number of security risk mitigation measures that address the priority risks identified in the Departmental Security Plan that are implemented.
Program Inventory
Core ResponsibilityProgram Inventory
Core Responsibility 1: International Advocacy and DiplomacyInternational Policy Coordination
Multilateral Policy
International Law
The Office of Protocol
Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb Policy and Diplomacy
Americas Policy and Diplomacy
Asia Pacific Policy and Diplomacy
Sub-Saharan Africa Policy and Diplomacy
Geographic Coordination Mission Support
International Assistance Policy
International Security Policy and Diplomacy
Core Responsibility 2: Trade and InvestmentTrade Policy, Agreements Negotiations, and Disputes
Trade Controls
International Business Development
International Innovation and Investment
Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb Trade
Americas Trade
Asia Pacific Trade
Sub-Saharan Africa Trade
Core Responsibility 3: Development, Peace and Security ProgrammingInternational Assistance Operations
Office of Human Rights, Freedom and Inclusion (OHRFI) Programming
Humanitarian Assistance
Partnerships for Development Innovation
Multilateral International Assistance
Peace and Stabilization Operations
Anti-Crime and Counter-Terrorism Capacity Building
Weapons Threat Reduction
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives
Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb International Assistance
Americas International Assistance
Asia Pacific International Assistance
Sub-Saharan Africa International Assistance
Grants and Contributions Policy and Operations
Core Responsibility 4: Help for Canadians abroadConsular Assistance and Services for Canadians Abroad
Emergency Preparedness and Response
Core Responsibility 5: Support for Canada’s Presence AbroadPlatform Corporate Services
Foreign Service Directives
Client Relations and Mission Operations
Locally Engaged Staff Services
Real Property Planning and Stewardship
Real Property Project Delivery, Professional and Technical Services
Mission Readiness and Security
Mission Network Information Management / Information Technology
Internal ServicesManagement & Oversight
Communications
Legal Services
Human Resources
Financial Management
Information Management
Information Technology
Real Property (Domestic)
Materiel Management
Acquisition Management
Changes to the approved reporting framework since 2020–21
Structure2021-222020-21ChangeReason for change
Core ResponsibilityDevelopment, Peace and Security ProgrammingDevelopment, Peace and Security ProgrammingNo changeNot applicable
ProgramPartnerships for Development InnovationPartnerships and Development InnovationTitle changeNote 1

Note 1: More accurately reflects the program and ensures the partnership is the target for innovation. This also aligns to the internal program name that is being used.

Supporting information on the program inventory

Supporting information on planned expenditures, human resources, and results related to the Global Affairs Canada’s program inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.Footnote xxv

Supplementary information tables

The following supplementary information tables are available on the Global Affairs Canada’s website.Footnote xxvi

Federal tax expenditures

Global Affairs Canada’s Departmental Plan does not include information on tax expenditures that relate to its planned results for 2021–22.

Tax expenditures are the responsibility of the Minister of Finance, and the Department of Finance Canada publishes cost estimates and projections for government-wide tax expenditures each year in the Report on Federal Tax Expenditures.Footnote xxvii This report provides detailed information on tax expenditures, including objectives, historical background and references to related federal spending programs, as well as evaluations, research papers and gender-based analysis. The tax measures presented in this report are solely the responsibility of the Minister of Finance.

Organizational contact information

Mailing address

Global Affairs Canada

Tel.: 1-800-267-8376 (toll-free in Canada); 613-944-4000 (National Capital Region and outside Canada)
TTY: 1-800-394-3472 (toll-free from the U.S. and Canada only); 613-944-1310 (National Capital Region and outside Canada)
Fax: 613-996-9709
www.international.gc.ca

Enquiries Services

Global Affairs Canada
125 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON K1A 0G2
Email: enqserv@international.gc.ca
Tel.: 1-800-267-8376 (toll-free in Canada); 613-944-4000 (National Capital Region and outside Canada)
Fax: 613-996-9709

Other Portfolio Related Contacts

Canadian Commercial Corporation

350 Albert Street, 7th Floor
Ottawa, ON K1A 0S6
Tel.: 1-800-748-8191 (toll-free in Canada); 613-996-0034 (National Capital Region and outside Canada)
Fax: 613-995-2121
www.ccc.ca

International Joint Commission (Canadian Section)

234 Laurier Avenue West, 22nd Floor
Ottawa, ON K1P 6K6
Tel.: 613-995-2984
Fax: 613-993-5583
www.ijc.org

Export Development Canada

150 Slater Street
Ottawa, ON K1A 1K3
Tel.: 1-800-229-0575 (toll-free in North America); 613-598-2500 (local)
TTY: 1-866-574-0451
Fax: 613-598-3811
www.edc.ca

Roosevelt Campobello International Park Commission

459 Route 774
Welshpool, NB E5E 1A4
Tel.: 1-877-851-6663 (toll-free); 506-752-2922 (local)
Fax: 506-752-6000
www.fdr.net

International Development Research Centre

150 Kent Street
Ottawa, ON K1P 0B2
Postal address: P.O. Box 8500
Ottawa, ON K1G 3H9
Tel.: 613-236-6163
Fax: 613-238-7230
www.idrc.ca

Invest in Canada

www.investcanada.ca

Appendix: Definitions

appropriation (crédit)
Any authority of Parliament to pay money out of the Consolidated Revenue Fund.
budgetary expenditures (dépenses budgétaires)
Operating and capital expenditures; transfer payments to other levels of government, organizations or individuals; and payments to Crown corporations.
core responsibility (responsabilité essentielle)
An enduring function or role performed by a department. The intentions of the department with respect to a core responsibility are reflected in one or more related departmental results that the department seeks to contribute to or influence.
Departmental Plan (plan ministériel)
A report on the plans and expected performance of a department over a 3‑year period. Departmental Plans are tabled in Parliament each spring.
departmental priority (priorité ministérielle)
A plan or project that a department has chosen to focus and report on during the planning period. Departmental priorities represent the things that are most important or what must be done first to support the achievement of the desired departmental results.
departmental result (résultat ministériel)
A consequence or outcome that a department seeks to achieve. A departmental result is often outside departments’ immediate control, but it should be influenced by program-level outcomes.
departmental result indicator (indicateur de résultat ministériel)
A factor or variable that provides a valid and reliable means to measure or describe progress on a departmental result.
departmental results framework (cadre ministériel des résultats)
A framework that consists of the department’s core responsibilities, departmental results and departmental result indicators.
Departmental Results Report (rapport sur les résultats ministériels)
A report on a department’s actual accomplishments against the plans, priorities and expected results set out in the corresponding Departmental Plan.
experimentation (expérimentation)
The conducting of activities that seek to first explore, then test and compare, the effects and impacts of policies and interventions in order to inform evidence-based decision-making, and improve outcomes for Canadians, by learning what works and what doesn’t. Experimentation is related to, but distinct form innovation (the trying of new things), because it involves a rigorous comparison of results. For example, using a new website to communicate with Canadians can be an innovation; systematically testing the new website against existing outreach tools or an old website to see which one leads to more engagement, is experimentation.
full‑time equivalent (équivalent temps plein)
A measure of the extent to which an employee represents a full person‑year charge against a departmental budget. Full‑time equivalents are calculated as a ratio of assigned hours of work to scheduled hours of work. Scheduled hours of work are set out in collective agreements.
gender-based analysis plus (GBA+)(analyse comparative entre les sexes plus [ACS+])
An analytical process used to assess how diverse groups of women, men and gender-diverse people experience policies, programs and services based on multiple factors including race, ethnicity, religion, age, and mental or physical disability.
government-wide priorities (priorités pangouvernementales)
For the purpose of the 2021–22 Departmental Plan, government-wide priorities refers to those high-level themes outlining the government’s agenda in the 2020 Speech from the Throne, namely: Protecting Canadians from COVID-19; Helping Canadians through the pandemic; Building back better – a resiliency agenda for the middle class; The Canada we’re fighting for.
horizontal initiative (initiative horizontale)
An initiative in which two or more federal organizations are given funding to pursue a shared outcome, often linked to a government priority.
non‑budgetary expenditures (dépenses non budgétaires)
Net outlays and receipts related to loans, investments and advances, which change the composition of the financial assets of the Government of Canada.
performance (rendement)
What an organization did with its resources to achieve its results, how well those results compare to what the organization intended to achieve, and how well lessons learned have been identified.
performance indicator (indicateur de rendement)
A qualitative or quantitative means of measuring an output or outcome, with the intention of gauging the performance of an organization, program, policy or initiative respecting expected results.
performance reporting (production de rapports sur le rendement)
The process of communicating evidence‑based performance information. Performance reporting supports decision-making, accountability and transparency.
plan (plan)
The articulation of strategic choices, which provides information on how an organization intends to achieve its priorities and associated results. Generally a plan will explain the logic behind the strategies chosen and tend to focus on actions that lead up to the expected result.
planned spending (dépenses prévues)

For Departmental Plans and Departmental Results Reports, planned spending refers to those amounts presented in the Main Estimates.

A department is expected to be aware of the authorities that it has sought and received. The determination of planned spending is a departmental responsibility, and departments must be able to defend the expenditure and accrual numbers presented in their Departmental Plans and Departmental Results Reports.

program (programme)
Individual or groups of services, activities or combinations thereof that are managed together within the department and focus on a specific set of outputs, outcomes or service levels.
program inventory (répertoire des programmes)
Identifies all of the department’s programs and describes how resources are organized to contribute to the department’s core responsibilities and results.
result (résultat)
An external consequence attributed, in part, to an organization, policy, program or initiative. Results are not within the control of a single organization, policy, program or initiative; instead they are within the area of the organization’s influence.
statutory expenditures (dépenses législatives)
Expenditures that Parliament has approved through legislation other than appropriation acts. The legislation sets out the purpose of the expenditures and the terms and conditions under which they may be made.
strategic outcome (résultat stratégique)
A long-term and enduring benefit to Canadians that is linked to the organization’s mandate, vision and core functions.
target (cible)
A measurable performance or success level that an organization, program or initiative plans to achieve within a specified time period. Targets can be either quantitative or qualitative.
voted expenditures (dépenses votées)
Expenditures that Parliament approves annually through an Appropriation Act. The vote wording becomes the governing conditions under which these expenditures may be made.
Date Modified: