Feminist and development groups in Canada are voicing concerns over the government's approach to foreign aid, particularly regarding funding for reproductive health and gender initiatives. These pressures come as Canada shifts its focus on foreign aid cuts, mainly targeting global health programming. During an event on Parliament Hill marking International Development Week on February 2, Oxfam Canada executive director Lauren Ravon highlighted the significance of maintaining a strong diplomatic voice in support of these initiatives.
Ravon stressed the danger of adopting a "scarcity mindset," where the government might choose to cut funding for essential programs related to LGBTQ+ rights and abortion services in favor of what it considers life-saving measures. This sentiment was echoed by other leaders in the sector, who emphasized the importance of preserving programs aimed at supporting women and gender minorities, including transgender, non-binary, and intersex individuals.
Despite assurances from Ottawa that it would uphold existing funding commitments for foreign aid, the government is set to reduce its aid expenditures by billions, particularly affecting global health. Prime Minister Mark Carney has declared Canada’s commitment to gender equality but indicated that the country is no longer pursuing a feminist foreign policy. Frédérique Chabot, head of Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights, made it clear that Canada’s leadership in sexual and reproductive health is increasingly vital during a time when it faces targeted attacks from far-right groups and authoritarian governments. She pointed out that sexual and reproductive health rights are crucial as they sit at the crossroads of autonomy, gender equality, science, and state authority.
The Guttmacher Institute, affiliated with Planned Parenthood, has analyzed Canada’s foreign aid budget, reporting that $76.2 million was allocated for family planning assistance in the fiscal year ending March 2024. Their findings indicate that this funding could prevent 2,110 maternal deaths, lead to 1.6 million fewer unintended pregnancies, and avert 478,000 unsafe abortions. Conversely, the analysis warns that a $10 million reduction in funding could correspondingly result in 277 maternal deaths, 213,000 unintended pregnancies, and 63,000 unsafe abortions.
With 70 percent of global financing for family planning initiatives at risk, the situation has become increasingly precarious, especially with the U.S. promoting policies that critics label as the "global gag rule." This rule limits American funding for organizations that advocate for the decriminalization or expansion of abortion services. Chabot and other advocates are urging the Canadian government to publicly reaffirm its decade-long commitment to sexual and reproductive rights, which they believe is vital for achieving tangible outcomes in areas most threatened by political upheaval.
Amid these challenges, the activism for reproductive freedoms continues to face significant hurdles. Cuts from the Trump administration have jeopardized various programs deemed as promoting “gender ideology,” which has had a cascading effect on funding for LGBTQ+ issues, as shared by Roberto Paulo from the organization Lambda in Mozambique. He expressed concern over the substantial funding cuts that are reversing the progress made in educating medical professionals and government officials about gender identity and sexual orientation.
Ravon emphasized the necessity for Canada to assert its stance on human rights, particularly as they face increasing threats worldwide. She argued that changes in legislation surrounding abortion and gender identity can be rapidly undone, highlighting that funding for civil society organizations is crucial for long-term change in these areas. Oxfam also pointed to rising inequality in Canada and globally, calling for a fairer taxation system for the wealthy to support development efforts.
The ongoing aftermath of American funding cuts has led to diminished resources for health care and other essential services in various regions, as seen in Liberia, where support for medical services has been significantly impacted. As Canada navigates its foreign aid strategy, these voices from the activist community underscore the necessity of maintaining support for vulnerable populations and vital health programs.
