Poverty is a political issue that requires political action to solve. That’s why we’re thrilled about a new initiative on Parliament Hill, which has just passed its first 100 days milestone.
In Fall 2023, Members of Parliament (MPs) passionate about ending global poverty from all political parties came together and formed the Global Cooperation Caucus (GCC). Supported by Results Canada and our friends at ONE Canada, the GCC is a forum for parliamentarians to hear from leading experts across all areas of international assistance – from global health to development finance, and everything in between – and work together to learn, take action, and lead Canada’s advancement in ending extreme poverty around the world.
The five co-chairs – Stéphane Bergeron (Bloc Québecois, Montarville), Dave Epp (Conservative, Chatham-Kent–Leamington), Arielle Kayabaga (Liberal, London West), Heather McPherson (New Democratic, Edmonton Strathcona), and Mike Morrice (Green, Kitchener Centre) – lead the caucus, but it is open to all parliamentarians and many others have attended GCC meetings and events. While caucus participants represent different political parties, they stand together with their shared vision of a world free from extreme poverty and we are thrilled to support committed political champions in this shared effort.
Since November, the GCC has discussed the ongoing conflict in Gaza with Save the Children Canada, explored the trends and history of Canada’s international assistance with Cooperation Canada, and discussed the important connections between international assistance and foreign policy with Results Canada and the Canadian Partnership for Women and Children's Health (CanWaCH). Over the rest of 2024, the GCC will explore several important issues such as global infectious diseases, multilateral development banks, Canada-Africa relations, and early childhood development.
During International Development Week (IDW) this past February, the GCC cochairs hosted a reception celebrating Canada’s longstanding legacy of making a positive impact around the world – particular in the lives of women and girls. With over 30 parliamentarians and nearly 150 others in attendance, this year’s IDW was a huge show of support for Canada’s continued global presence.
The GCC comes together at a time of critical need. The COVID-19 pandemic stalled and even reversed progress in global health, nutrition and food security, and education. Canadian leadership is needed to help the world get back on track, and the GCC serves as a key vehicle for providing that leadership and building political will. By educating parliamentarians and deepening Parliament’s connections with Canadian and global civil society, the GCC provides opportunities for informed and sustained political action.
Take action:
Help us grow and strengthen the Global Cooperation Caucus! Invite your MP to join the Global Cooperation Caucus today. Download the invitation below and send it to your MP:
Follow the GCC on social media: X/Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn.
