Thomas Coldwell

Currently, around 10 percent of the world’s population lives below the poverty line, struggling to meet their most basic needs, including their needs for food, water, and shelter.  Many more are impacted by lack of income, hunger and malnutrition, limited access to education, and social isolation. For the first time since 1990, poverty levels are increasing due to the devastating blow from COVID-19. The World Bank estimates that as many as 150 million people could be pushed back into extreme poverty because of the pandemic. 

While the challenge is immense, between 1990 and 2015, over one billion people were lifted out of poverty. We know that global cooperation can lead to poverty reduction and ending poverty for all.

Over the past few years, I’ve noticed a shift in public rhetoric and personal opinions toward protectionist, isolationist, and “Canada first” sentiments. As a Canadian who grew up in a low-income household, I understand some of the social inequalities that exist within our borders. At the same time, Canada will not succeed without a strong global economy. Canadian lives are enriched through diverse and cross-cultural experiences. We must remain committed to our human responsibility for our local and global neighbours. 

I’m calling on all Canadians to stand up for our global neighbours facing extreme poverty. Ending global poverty requires action from all levels of government, the private sector, civil society, and local communities. Now more than ever, Canada must increase our investment in international development efforts. The issues that hit close to home, like national security and public health, are intimately connected to the state of our world. COVID-19 is a poignant example of the fact that what happens elsewhere affects Canada, and vice-versa. Moving toward the Sustainable Development Goals everywhere is the right thing to do, for Canada and for our global neighbours.