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Minister Nicholson Announces Support for Ukrainian Democracy
Highlights Canada’s commitment to advancing democracy, human rights, rule of law and support for civil society
March 18, 2015 – Ottawa, Ontario – Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, announced today three initiatives to support Ukraine’s efforts in building a more peaceful, democratic and prosperous future for its people.
Canada has been a global leader in supporting the ongoing democratic and economic transition in Ukraine through a broad range of projects that support free and fair elections, decentralization, free media, religious freedom, the rule of law and economic growth.
Today, the Government of Canada announced funding for the following projects:
- $1.2 million to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe to support the administration and coordination of elections;
- $3 million to the International Foundation for Electoral Systems to strengthen reform on transparency and anti-corruption in the Ukrainian political process; and
- $2.9 million to the National Democratic Institute to help Ukrainians practise transparent election financing and promote women’s political empowerment.
The projects announced today, totalling $7.1 million, will promote the participation of citizens, particularly women, as well as enhance civil society engagement in the electoral process.
Quick Facts
- Since the beginning of the crisis in Ukraine in late 2013, Canada has been at the forefront of supporting Ukraine’s efforts to restore stability and implement democratic and economic reforms.
- In 2014, Ukraine was reconfirmed as a country of focus for Canada’s international development efforts.
- Since January 2014, the Government of Canada has announced more than $568 million in assistance to Ukraine, which includes support for economic stabilization, democracy and human rights, humanitarian assistance and security. This also includes two $200-million low-interest loans to help the Government of Ukraine stabilize its economy.
Quotes
“One year ago, the world witnessed the illegal annexation of Crimea, and today the Putin regime continues to violate Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Despite this, the Ukrainian people have achieved remarkable progress toward ensuring a democratic and prosperous future. As we commend the Ukrainian people for their courage and resilience, Canada reiterates its commitment to support them in the face of Russian aggression and calls upon Russia to fully implement its Minsk commitments and get out of Ukraine.”
– Rob Nicholson, Minister of Foreign Affairs
“Canada continues to be a world leader in helping to advance democracy, strengthen human rights and support sustainable economic growth in Ukraine. We will continue to work with the Government of Ukraine to assist with the reforms needed to realize the country’s full economic potential and build a sound public institutional and legal environment for closer integration with Europe.”
– Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
Related Products
Associated Links
- Minister Nicholson Issues Statement on Anniversary of Crimea’s So-Called Referendum
- Canada Supports Initiatives to Enhance Sustainable Economic Growth in Ukraine
- Canada Announces New Support to Protect Freedom and Justice in Ukraine
- Canada’s Ongoing Support for Ukraine – Timeline
- The Government of Canada’s Response to the Situation in Ukraine
- Canada’s Humanitarian Assistance to Ukraine
- Ukraine (Canada’s bilateral development assistance program)
Contacts
Johanna Quinney
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
343-203-1851
johanna.quinney@international.
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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