Aid sector calls out omission of foreign aid in federal budget

Canada's federal budget, for the first time in over a decade, has omitted any reference to foreign aid or international development, sparking criticism from the aid sector. Co-operation Canada head Kate Higgins stated that the budget's silence on these issues is particularly concerning given the high stakes globally. The budget, released by Prime Minister Mark Carney's government, does not mention international assistance or development at all, aside from a passing reference to Ukraine in the context of drone production.

Higgins, representing a coalition of Canadian aid groups, expressed relief that Ottawa did not announce further cuts to foreign aid, which were previously planned. The sector argues that international development co-operation plays a crucial role in addressing crises worldwide, such as the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the spread of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

They hope that Ottawa will provide more details on its plans for international development assistance and humanitarian action in an upcoming foreign policy review. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand assured that development assistance remains a priority for Global Affairs Canada, citing examples of humanitarian aid provided to Cuba, Lebanon, Gaza, and Sudan.

However, the budget's lack of any mention of foreign aid has drawn criticism from various organizations, including Results Canada and UNICEF Canada, who argue that the government should acknowledge the importance of development funding in addressing global challenges.