February 28, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The relationship between the Caribbean region and Canada is deep and multifaceted. It increases employment opportunities, advances economic growth, and strengthens global stability and security. It aims to reduce global climate change effects, protect ecosystems, empower communities and promote gender equality, benefiting both the Caribbean and Canada.

Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced $24.1 million in funding that will be delivered through the Equality Fund to support the Women’s Voice and Leadership Caribbean initiative in the Caribbean region and the Lawyers Without Borders Canada initiative Justice and Fight against Impunity in Haiti (JISTIS). These initiatives aim to promote social action, empowerment of women, human rights and security. By doing so, they aim to ensure global stability and support shared values between Canada and the Caribbean.

These announcements build on the progress made when Minister Hussen recently visited Barbados to represent Canada at the 48th Regular Meeting of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). While there, he announced $38 million for investments in international assistance projects across multiple countries in the region and reiterated Canada’s commitment to the Caribbean Future Skills Fund for technical and vocational education, which aims to help build a workforce that can leverage technological innovation and contribute to inclusive and sustainable economies in the Caribbean.

Canada is committed to fostering regional unity and economic resilience in the Caribbean region. Minister Hussen’s funding announcement today in addition to projects announced at the CARICOM Meeting total more than $62 million and represents an investment for a sustainable and prosperous future.