Hon. Julie Miville-Dechêne: Senator Moreau, I was surprised to learn while reading The Globe and Mail on Sunday that Prime Minister Carney did not consider our foreign policy to be feminist, which abruptly ended eight years of Canada’s efforts to ensure that our international aid prioritized combatting gender inequality and the lack of autonomy of women and girls. I’m deeply disappointed, especially given that in crisis situations, women hold the keys to their families’ survival. Why this sudden about-face?

Hon. Pierre Moreau (Government Representative in the Senate): Senator Miville-Dechêne, this is a very important issue. The government has been clear and consistent in its commitment to combatting gender discrimination, eliminating gender-based violence and empowering women and girls in Canada.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, in particular, was clear during her speech at the United Nations. Canada’s foreign policy is based on three principles, specifically defence and security, economic resilience and our values. Feminism is one of the government’s values and will play an important role in our foreign policy through the Prime Minister’s efforts to diversify our international trade and attract investment. The government has also been clear that it will continue its efforts to combat gender-based violence and inequality around the world.

Senator Miville-Dechêne: Thank you for that answer, but I fail to understand why the Prime Minister is reluctant to use the words “feminist policy” if he is doing everything that people say needs to get done in that area.

This change of direction comes at a time when the Government of Canada announced $2.4 billion in cuts to international assistance over the next four years. Oxfam is concerned that women’s reproductive health and sexuality initiatives might be affected. Is that so?

Senator Moreau: International development investments by the Canadian government focusing on women are among the most impactful as far as economic development is concerned. Every dollar invested in educating girls generates $3 on average, which works out to billions of dollars in additional GDP. From education to agriculture to peace efforts, greater participation by women remains a constant driver of economic growth and poverty reduction for everyone.