Overview
- Prime Minister Mark Carney said in Johannesburg that Canada no longer describes its external agenda as a feminist foreign policy.
- He affirmed continued commitments that include LGBTQ+ rights and efforts to combat gender-based violence.
- Carney praised the South African G20 chair for securing joint-statement language that identifies gender-based violence as an issue countries must tackle.
- He said Canada will expand trade even with partners that do not prioritize gender equality, arguing engagement can advance progress through dialogue.
- In October testimony, Secretary of State for International Development Randeep Sarai said foreign aid still applies a feminist lens, including firm support for sexual and reproductive health, as critics such as Sen. Marilou McPhedran warn women’s issues are being de-prioritized.