November 25, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:

“Violence against women and girls is never okay.

“Gender-based violence is among the most pervasive violations of human rights worldwide. Women and girls are subjected to particularly high rates of violence at home, online and in public and political spaces. When women who are politicians, activists or human rights defenders face violence, their right to safety is violated and democracy is threatened. Amid a growing global backlash against women’s and girls’ rights, Canada is working to protect civic space and promote women’s full participation in public life.

“Sexual and gender-based violence is especially prevalent in communities where people are already experiencing marginalization, poverty and inequality. Increasing humanitarian crises and conflicts, as well as natural disasters caused by climate change, further exacerbate the risk of violence against women and girls.

“Canada is working to change the harmful gender norms that perpetuate cycles of violence. Under Canada’s feminist foreign policy and Feminist International Assistance Policy, we take a whole-of-society approach that brings together local partners, governments and civil society organizations to prevent sexual and gender-based violence. Engaging with men, boys and local leaders is crucial to creating sustainable change. Canada also provides significant support to feminist movements and women’s rights organizations, which do critical work in changing discriminatory policies and promoting a safer future for women and girls.  

“Globally, Canada is a top donor to efforts to end sexual and gender-based violence. Last year, over 35 million people received support from initiatives that Canada funds to prevent, respond to and end sexual and gender-based violence and harmful practices such as child, early and forced marriage and female genital mutilation and cutting.

“Today, as the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence begins, we reaffirm Canada’s commitment to building a future where all women and girls live free from violence. Join us in speaking out against sexual and gender-based violence and standing up for women’s and girls’ rights by using the hashtag #16Days.”