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Development Finance & Policy

Development finance and policy shape how resources are mobilized, allocated and governed to address global poverty, inequality and systemic injustice.

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These decisions influence not only how much funding is available, but also who sets priorities, who benefits, and how sustainable and inclusive development efforts can be.

Cooperation Canada works with its members to strengthen policymaking and to advance transparent, accountable and predictably financed systems, while strengthening Canada’s commitment to gender equality as a foundational objective of international assistance.

Through convening, research and advocacy, we bring together diverse perspectives to inform national and global policy discussions. Our work helps ensure that Canadian international assistance is more effective, equitable and responsive to the realities of partners around the world.

By engaging directly with decision-makers and contributing evidence-based analysis, we support policies that prioritize poverty reduction and upholding human rights.

For members, this work creates meaningful opportunities to inform and stay on top of evolving development finance priorities. Ultimately, Cooperation Canada’s efforts help build a more coherent, inclusive and accountable international cooperation system that delivers tangible results for communities globally.

What We Work On

Our development finance and policy work connects civil society expertise to the decisions that determine how Canada funds and directs international assistance.

Advocating for impactful, transparent and accountable development finance and policy

including during Cooperation Canada’s International Development Week Hill Day

Researching and analyzing development finance and policy trends

Strengthening civil society’s role in shaping development finance and policy

including by amplifying global civil society voices

Facilitating peer learning and sector coordination spaces

such as Cooperation Canada’s Policy & Advocacy Working Group

Engaging decision-makers to prioritize international development cooperation in Canada’s foreign policy

Advancing gender equality in development policy

Why It’s Important

The way Canada finances and governs its international assistance has a direct impact on communities around the world.

 

  • Canada’s policy and funding decisions shape global impact

    determining how effectively international assistance reaches communities and contributes to equitable, sustainable development
  • Canadian civil society organizations bring frontline expertise and global partnerships

    strengthening how international assistance is designed, delivered and adapted to real-world needs
  • Transparent and accountable systems sustain public trust in Canada

    reinforcing support for international cooperation and ensuring commitments translate into measurable results
  • International assistance plays a strategic role in achieving Canada’s foreign policy objectives

    by building partnerships and contributing to global prosperity and security, including Canada’s

Get Involved

Join the conversation on development finance and policy through these opportunities.

News & Updates

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