Federal, Provincial and Territorial (FPT) Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women recently gathered in Moncton, New Brunswick to discuss key priorities affecting women and gender equality across Canada. Newfoundland and Labrador was represented by the Honourable Lela Evans, Minister of Women and Gender Equality.

The National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence remains an important framework for collaboration among federal, provincial and territorial governments as they work toward a Canada free from gender-based violence. Governments continue to work together with victims and survivors, Indigenous partners, service providers, advocates, municipalities, researchers and community organizations to strengthen prevention efforts, support survivors and address the root causes of violence.

A key focus of this year’s meeting was the range of social and economic issues affecting women across Canada. Ministers discussed economic insecurity, caregiving responsibilities, health challenges and the impacts of an aging population. Discussions also explored strategies to enhance women’s participation and retention in high-growth employment sectors, particularly in non-traditional occupations where women continue to be underrepresented.

Ministers also examined the growing influence of artificial intelligence, including opportunities to support economic participation and innovation, as well as risks related to workforce disruption, bias and other challenges that may disproportionately affect women.

Ending gender-based violence and advancing gender equality requires ongoing collaboration among governments, communities and organizations across Canada. The meeting provided an opportunity for ministers to exchange ideas, identify emerging challenges and strengthen collective efforts to improve outcomes for women, girls and gender-diverse people.

Quotes
“The discussions at this year’s meeting reinforced that advancing gender equality requires continued collaboration and a shared commitment to addressing the challenges women, girls and gender-diverse people face in their daily lives. I was pleased to join my colleagues from across the country to share perspectives and explore solutions that will help build safer, more inclusive and equitable communities for everyone.”
Honourable Lela Evans
Minister of Women and Gender Equality

“Last week’s discussions in Moncton highlighted the importance of working together to advance gender equality across Canada. We reaffirmed our shared commitment to ending gender-based violence, expanding opportunities for women in the economy, and using data and evidence to better understand the experiences of women and girls. I look forward to continuing this important collaboration with Newfoundland and Labrador and all provinces and territories.”
Honourable Rechie Valdez
Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism)

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Learn more
New Funding to Strengthen Crisis Hotline Services in Newfoundland and Labrador

Office of Women and Gender Equality

Women and Gender Equality Canada

The National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence

Results under the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence

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