FAAE Committee News Release

As two case studies connected to that work, the Committee learned first-hand about the experiences of Guatemalan and Colombian women in those countries’ internal armed conflicts, and the essential roles that women play in the achievement of peace and justice. As part of its consideration of development cooperation, the Committee also set out to examine the results of Canada’s programs in one of its “countries of focus” (Colombia) and in one of its “partner countries” for development (Guatemala).

The Committee’s mission reinforced a number of common themes, including the need for long-term Canadian engagement in countries that are seeking to build and sustain peace. The mission also underscored that efforts to advance economic prosperity, citizen security and justice must be prioritized in rural communities. It further highlighted the need for development assistance that can help to empower grassroots organizations and local institutions, including those working to promote and protect women’s rights, combat corruption and impunity, and ensure the rule of law.

The Committee believes that, together, these three reports can help to shape Canada’s support for the implementation of the women, peace and security agenda, and broader international development objectives.

The full text of the report is available on the Committee’s website.