Canada’s Initiative to Support Vulnerable Women and Girls in Central America
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Empowering Women and Girls Amidst Central America’s Challenges
As a dedicated ally and partner, Canada is stepping up to support Central American countries grappling with violence and instability. The harsh conditions have led to mass displacements, with women and girls being particularly vulnerable.
December 7, 2021—Ottawa (Ontario)—Canada is launching a new initiative to bolster the safety and empowerment of women and girls in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador. Announced by the Honourable Sean Fraser, this plan involves a $10 million investment over four years, collaborating with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR).
Project Focus and Impact
The project targets urgent needs identified by the Comprehensive Regional Protection and Solutions Framework (MIRPS) to curb migration risks. It aims to enhance living conditions for around 5,000 women and girls, offering better protection and supporting their return or international protection.
This announcement follows Minister Fraser’s visit to Guatemala, where he observed the difficulties faced by displaced communities firsthand.
Statements from Key Leaders
“As Chair of the MIRPS Support Platform, Canada is advocating for the rights of women and girls in Central America and Mexico. The situation is critical, and we’re committed to tackling gender-based violence to provide better protection and support.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Ending forced displacement requires collaboration. This humanitarian crisis affects women and girls disproportionately, and our partnerships are crucial for enhancing their safety and welfare.”
– The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development
“IOM is dedicated to supporting women and girls facing vulnerabilities like migration and displacement. This project aims to transform Central American societies, promoting gender equality and empowering women.”
– Jorge Peraza, Chief of Mission for Guatemala and Honduras, IOM
“UNHCR is eager to continue working with IOM and Canada to protect and empower displaced women and girls. This initiative exemplifies the power of regional cooperation in addressing displacement issues.”
– Isabel Marquez, Deputy Director for the Americas, UNHCR
Key Information
- The MIRPS Support Platform, launched in 2019, aids responsibility sharing on forced displacement in Central America and Mexico.
- The involved countries include Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, and Mexico.
- Platform members are Argentina, Brazil, Canada, and several other countries and organizations, with UNHCR serving as the technical secretariat.
- The platform provides necessary support to address the needs of nearly 900,000 displaced individuals from northern Central America and Nicaragua.
Further Reading
Related Resources
Contact Information
Media Inquiries
Alexander Cohen
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
FAQs
What is the goal of Canada’s initiative in Central America?
The goal is to protect and empower women and girls amidst the challenges of forced displacement and irregular migration in Central America.
Which organizations are partnering with Canada on this initiative?
Canada is partnering with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) to implement this initiative.
What is the MIRPS Support Platform?
Launched in 2019, the MIRPS Support Platform is a mechanism to support countries in Central America and Mexico with shared responsibilities on forced displacement.
How many women and girls are expected to benefit from this project?
The initiative is projected to improve living conditions and protection for approximately 5,000 women and girls.
