In Canada, we may have slowed COVID-19, but global case numbers continue to rise, particularly in countries that do not have our resources or health infrastructure. We know diseases do not stop at borders. As long as the virus poses a threat globally, it threatens our health, our security, and our economy. That is why we have been asking Canada to invest at least 1% (approx. CA$1.5 billion) of what they’ve spent so far on the COVID-19 response in new and additional aid towards an emergency, humanitarian global response.
On June 27, 2020, Canada responded by committing CAD$300 million which will help ensure access to medicines, diagnostics and vaccines to fight COVID and also to tackle the growing global humanitarian crises. We congratulate International Development Minister Karina Gould for championing a response.
No one is safe until everyone is safe, so although today’s announcement is not insignificant, we will continue to push Canada to commit at least 1% of its COVID-19 response to support a global response. We are also asking Canada to commit to a permanent increase in Canadian aid (ODA – Official Development Assistance) to ensure progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) so that those most vulnerable in dealing with humanitarian emergencies have access to the services they need.
To take action and ask the government to respond as a global leader with a truly global response, see our #LeaveNoOneBehind campaign.