Who handles international development?
International Development
International development is primarily federal. Global Affairs Canada manages foreign aid and trade, provinces participate through trade missions, and municipalities engage through sister city programs.
⚠️ Shared Jurisdiction: This area involves multiple levels of government. The information below shows the primary responsibility at each level, but overlap is common. When in doubt, start with the level most directly related to your issue.
Federal
Parliament of Canada
- ● Global Affairs Canada (foreign aid and diplomacy)
- ● International trade agreements
- ● Refugee and humanitarian assistance
- ● Development finance (e.g., FinDev Canada)
💡 Example: Contact Global Affairs Canada, or your MP about foreign policy and development aid.
Provincial
Provincial Legislature
- ● Provincial trade missions
- ● International partnerships and agreements
- ● Provincial development aid contributions
- ● Export promotion programs
💡 Example: Contact your provincial trade ministry about international partnerships.
Municipal
City / Town Hall
- ● Sister city programs
- ● Local international exchange programs
- ● Community international partnerships
- ● Municipal international development initiatives
💡 Example: Contact your city council about sister city programs or international exchanges.
Quick Reference — Who to Contact
🏛️ Federal
Your Member of Parliament (MP)
🏢 Provincial
Your MPP, MLA, or MNA
🏘️ Municipal
Your City Councillor
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