Prime Minister Mark Carney has officially shifted away from the feminist foreign policy approach previously championed by his Liberal predecessors, notably Justin Trudeau. This statement marks a significant departure from the practices established under Trudeau’s administration, which touted a feminist foreign policy since 2017.
Background of Canada’s Feminist Foreign Policy
The Trudeau government introduced the feminist foreign aid strategy in 2017, aiming for at least 95% of bilateral foreign aid projects to promote gender equality and support women and girls. Over the years, former foreign affairs ministers like Chrystia Freeland and François-Philippe Champagne actively endorsed this approach, highlighting its importance in international relations.
- 2017: Introduction of Canada’s feminist foreign policy.
- 2020: Government commitment to define the feminist foreign policy further.
- Champagne stated, “Canada is proud to have a feminist foreign policy, not because it looks good, but because it produces tangible results.”
The Current Shift in Foreign Policy
At a press conference in Johannesburg during the G20 summit, Carney remarked that while issues like gender equality remain aspects of Canada’s foreign policy, he does not classify it as a feminist foreign policy. This stance represents a clear break from the prior administration’s emphasis on such policies.
Carney’s mandate letters to cabinet ministers reflect this new direction, as no references to feminism or gender equality were included. Additionally, he has yet to appoint a new ambassador for women, peace, and security, following Jacqueline O’Neill’s departure in March.
G20 Summit Highlights
During the summit, Carney underscored the joint declaration from G20 leaders, which included numerous references to gender issues prioritized by South Africa. Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s absence and his prior criticisms of the country, Carney emphasized the importance of the G20 consensus, representing a significant portion of the global population and economy.
- Joint declaration supported by all attending G20 leaders.
- Representatives accounted for approximately 75% of the global population.
- Summit attended by a total of 62 leaders.
Strengthening Canada-South Africa Relations
In his first visit to sub-Saharan Africa as Prime Minister, Carney announced plans to initiate discussions regarding a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement with South Africa. This agreement is intended to foster a more robust investment climate between the two nations.
Further developments include the completion of a nuclear cooperation agreement with South Africa. Carney also expressed interest in engaging with the African continental free-trade agreement during talks with an African Union representative.
Future Priorities
Carney acknowledged Africa’s lower priority in Canada’s foreign policy agenda, noting that traditional partners in Europe, Britain, and Mexico are currently prioritized due to more favorable returns on investment. He clarified that while Africa is included in the broader strategy, it does not take precedence.
Looking ahead, Carney mentioned he anticipates future discussions with President Trump concerning trade, although no urgent issues require immediate dialogue at this time.
