March 8, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs; the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development; and the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:

“The 2025 International Women’s Day theme—For ALL Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment—highlights the importance of upholding rights and advancing gender equality.

“Canada will continue to champion women-led solutions and build resilient, inclusive communities. Women’s rights are human rights, and we stand with all women and girls in Canada and worldwide in their fight for equality, dignity and opportunity.

“Thirty years ago, Canada proudly signed the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action to accelerate progress on gender equality. Three decades later, we can look back at our achievements with profound appreciation. But while progress has been made, there has not been enough. Sustained efforts are essential now than ever.

“Through our Feminist International Assistance Policy and Foundations for Peace (2023 to 2029), our third national action plan on women, peace and security, we remain committed to dismantling inequalities and uplifting women and girls around the world.

“Canada is championing inclusive trade to incentivize the participation of women, small-business owners and under-represented entrepreneurs.

“Supporting women, including young women and adolescent girls, is the most effective way to eradicate poverty and build a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world.”