Plan International Canada applauds federal government's decision to put gender at the core of the 2018 budget
Canada has never been better positioned to lead the global fight for gender equality but we must also address the unique voices and needs of girls – who are so often ignored – in this fight.
TORONTO, Feb. 28, 2018 /CNW/ - Plan International Canada applauds the federal government's gender responsive budget, which marks an unprecedented step towards ensuring this budget serves all Canadians, including girls and women. On both the national and international stage, leaders must continue to push for resources to follow policy when it comes to advancing gender equality and girls' rights.
It is also vital that all governments address the unique voices and needs of girls – who face different challenges than women – in these conversations. Too often girls are left out of decisions, policies and laws that focus on women and children, and rarely address their unique needs.
"We are already so proud that Canada has boldly taken up the mantle of gender equality. Today's strengthening of the Department of Status of Women is key to ensuring gender is brought to the centre of government decision-making," says Caroline Riseboro, President and CEO of Plan International Canada. "Canadian leadership is putting its money where its mouth is in terms of gender equality, and that's a groundbreaking achievement."
"Discriminatory gender norms can be challenged and power imbalances between women and men can be changed, but they must be confronted early, before young women arrive in the workplace because they start at home, continue at school and pervade every area of our society," says Riseboro.
Plan International Canada also welcomes the government's announcement that it will commit $2 billion over five years towards the implementation of Canada's Feminist International Assistance Policy. Canada has never been better positioned to lead the global fight for gender equality, but leaders must step up to meet Canada's ambitious goals for Agenda 2030 through long-term funding focused on reaching the poorest and most vulnerable populations.
About Plan International Canada and the Because I am a Girl initiative
Founded in 1937, Plan International is one of the world's oldest and largest international development agencies, working in partnership with millions of people around the world to end global poverty. Not for profit, independent and inclusive of all faiths and cultures, Plan International strives for a just world that advances children's rights and equality for girls. Because I am a Girl is Plan International's global movement to transform power relations so that girls everywhere can learn, lead, decide and thrive.
Visit plancanada.ca for more information.
SOURCE Plan International Canada
Media contact: Kyla Pearson, Plan International Canada, 416-920-1654 x350, [email protected]
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