Feminist International Assistance Policy launched last year after broad ranging consultations is resonating on the world stage…in a good way.
Canada’s new international development policy, commonly known as FIAP – Feminist International Assistance Policy launched last year after broad ranging consultations is resonating on the world stage…in a good way. With the target being the eradication of poverty while also addressing several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the rationale for the FIAP becomes clear. Canada has demonstrated leadership in a way that has reignited the spotlight on the disparities that women face in all walks of life.
In developing countries, the gender equity challenges are quite complex, being interwoven in socio-cultural norms, practices and policies. Tying development aid to demonstrable shifts towards gender equity is therefore a good strategy to both signal that the “status quo” cannot coexist with meaningful “development” as well as an opportunity to provide tools for addressing concomitant maladies in discrete and measurable ways. Since its launch last year, the FIAP hosted several thematic sessions to further elucidate issues that require special attention in the six action areas identified:
- Core Action Area: Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women and Girls
- Human Dignity (health and nutrition, education, humanitarian action)
- Growth that Works for Everyone
- Environment and Climate Action
- Inclusive Governance
- Peace and Security
The IICA Delegation in Canada participated in a workshop on Environment & Climate Change jointly hosted by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and the Canadian Coalition on Climate Change & Development (C4D), where the implications of Climate Change on agriculture and food security were aired. Additionally, considering the Institute’s knowledge, experience and interest in inclusive development and economic empowerment, the Representative, with support from the Institute’s technical specialists, participated in GAC’s short but dynamic virtual consultation process on Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women & Girls; Human Dignity : Health and Nutrition; Environment and Climate Change and Inclusive Governance. Collaborations will be key to obtaining a multiplier impact and the Delegation is in preparation mode to optimize existing partnerships as well as establish new ones.
For more information:
Audia Barnett
audia.barnett@iica.int
