March 1, 2025 – Ottawa, Canada – Global Affairs Canada

Canada champions the advocacy and protection of human rights for everyone because focusing on the inclusion of diverse populations creates a more equitable and fair society for us all.

Today, on Zero Discrimination Day, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced funding of $37.9 million for 5 projects to advance democratic governance in disadvantaged regions of the world. The objectives of these projects are to protect human rights, strengthen gender equality, enhance human rights education and improve the lives of marginalized people in developing countries.

This work is in line with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

The following projects will be implemented in partnership with these Canadian institutions:

• Equitas – The Power of Equality project
• Office of the Commissioner for Federal Judicial Affairs – Technical Assistance Partnership project
• Justice Canada – Technical Assistance Partnership project
• Lawyers Without Borders Canada- Access to Rights in the Caribbean: Equality, Non-discrimination, Citizenship, and Empowerment through Law project
• Manitoba Council for International Cooperation – Fund for Innovation and Transformation project

This work will be done through the collaboration of Canadian justice and human rights experts with local governments, civil society organizations and groups in countries eligible for official development assistance.