As democracies across the globe face increasing challenges, Canada remains a steadfast advocate for the protection and promotion of democratic values. In a statement marking International Day of Democracy,
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to supporting electoral integrity, combating disinformation, and empowering marginalized communities.
At a time when threats to democracy are more pronounced, Canada is doubling down on efforts to ensure democracy remains resilient worldwide.
Why Democracy Matters Now More Than Ever
At this crucial moment, with nearly half the world’s population eligible to vote in 2024, democracies are under pressure. Disinformation, foreign interference, and election-related violence have become significant threats to electoral integrity.
Canada is taking a leadership role in addressing these issues, actively standing against forces that undermine free and fair elections.
Canada’s Efforts to Protect Democracy
Canada’s efforts to safeguard democracy go beyond its borders. The government is heavily involved in global initiatives that aim to uphold democratic standards and principles.
As Minister Joly stated,
“While democracy is imperfect, it remains the system best able to provide what matters most to people, including peace, prosperity, and human rights.”
Canada’s international initiatives focus on:
- Providing technical expertise to build capacity for electoral processes.
- Offering election observation support to ensure free and fair elections.
- Strengthening international partnerships through participation in organizations like the Open Government Partnership and the Community of Democracies.
By sharing its expertise and working alongside global partners, Canada aims to reinforce democratic institutions and make elections more inclusive and transparent.
Canada’s Feminist Approach to Democracy
Canada is also working to expand the democratic process through its Feminist International Assistance Policy. This policy prioritizes gender equality, ensuring that women and marginalized groups are involved in democratic processes.
Through partnerships with international organizations, Canada is actively fostering women’s participation in politics, especially in countries where they have historically been excluded from these spaces.
For example, in Kenya, Canada partnered with UN Women to help over 1,000 women engage in the electoral process as voters, candidates, and electoral administrators.
In Ukraine, Canada is working to strengthen the political participation of women and minority groups, which has been severely affected by the war.
These efforts highlight Canada’s commitment to not just democratic governance, but also to building more inclusive democracies worldwide.
Canada’s Democracy Initiatives |
Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Technical expertise and election support | Strengthening global electoral integrity |
| Promoting gender equality in elections | Increasing women’s participation in democratic processes |
| Combating disinformation and interference | Enhancing transparency and fairness in elections |
The Importance of Electoral Integrity
Maintaining the integrity of elections is fundamental to a healthy democracy. Minister Joly emphasized the importance of standing firm against disinformation and foreign interference, which can erode trust in electoral systems.
- Capacity-building programs to strengthen democratic institutions.
- Election monitoring missions that ensure transparency.
- Support for independent media to combat disinformation.
By leading with these initiatives, Canada is not only protecting its own democratic systems but also helping other nations build resilient electoral frameworks.
What’s Next?
Canada will defend democratic rights and freedoms by working with both long-standing and new partners to counter growing threats to democracy. The international landscape may be shifting, but the desire for democratic governance remains strong.
Canada will continue to support those fighting for freedom, so that we can ensure peace, prosperity, and human rights for all.
Through its global partnerships, inclusive policies, and focus on electoral integrity, Canada is playing a crucial role in safeguarding democracy for future generations. Now is the time for all nations to stand together in the defense of democratic values.
Sources: THX News & Global Affairs Canada.
