In a new report, a parliamentary committee is urging Canada to do more to support sexual and reproductive rights globally, as the risk of regression in these rights increases. The report, issued by the House of Commons foreign affairs committee, emphasizes the need for Canada to scale up its efforts in this area. The committee held hearings and reviewed briefs from various individuals and organizations to inform its findings.
The report highlights the progress made in certain countries, such as Benin, Argentina, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Mexico, where access to abortion has improved. However, it also recognizes the existence of an organized movement against women’s rights worldwide.
Liberal MP Rachel Bendayan emphasized the importance of women’s autonomy over their bodies and sexual and reproductive health, including access to safe and legal abortions. Witnesses praised Canada’s historic and unique approach and commitment to these issues but stressed the need for investment in comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services to save lives and alleviate the burden on healthcare systems.
While the study was initially prompted by the overturning of Roe v. Wade, NDP MP Heather MacPherson highlights that attacks on women’s rights are occurring globally. The committee provided 14 recommendations, including calls for the government to fulfill its commitment to spend at least $700 million on global sexual and reproductive health and rights by 2023-24. It also urged increased support for women’s rights organizations and the inclusion of adolescents in funding and programming efforts.
The report called for the government to use its partnerships to advocate for increased global investment, utilizing Canada’s leadership role in the world. It also emphasized the importance of collecting more data on access to sexual health and reproductive rights in conflict zones. One recommendation specifically addressed the treatment of the Uyghur population in China, opposing coercive population control targeting Uyghur women.
Members of Parliament on the committee urged the government to release its long-promised feminist foreign policy document, which would provide guidance to diplomats and aid workers. Bloc Quebecois MP Adreanne Larouche stressed the importance of implementing the government’s international feminist policy effectively. Conservative MPs added an addendum to the report, suggesting that the discussion of women’s health and rights should have a broader scope and include recognition of the context in which women exercise autonomy.
Overall, the committee’s report highlights the need for Canada to increase its support for sexual and reproductive rights globally and to use its influence to advocate for these rights on a global scale.
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