OTTAWA, ON — Thursday, October 31, 2024 — Canadians across the political spectrum believe in the importance of their country maintaining a respected and active role in global affairs, according to a new national poll commissioned by members of the Canadian Partnership for Women and Children’s Health (CanWaCH) and conducted by Abacus Data.
The survey found that 89 per cent of Canadians feel it is important for Canada to be respected internationally. An additional 81 per cent believe it’s important for Canada to be seen as contributing its fair share to solving global problems, and that Canada engages and works to improve global problems respectively.
The survey also found that 79 per cent of Canadians support the federal government’s provision of Official Development Assistance (ODA). The top reasons for this support include maintaining relationships with international organizations, preserving Canada’s global standing, and continuing the nation’s history of stepping up to help countries in need.
Notably, this support comes at a time when Canadians are acutely aware of domestic challenges. 96 per cent of respondents are concerned about the cost of living, while 91 per cent are concerned about health care and the economy. Despite all this, 81 per cent cited the health and well-being of others around the world as a concern.
“Canada has built a reputation as a global leader in advancing the health of women and children, and it’s a role that Canadians clearly value,” said Julia Anderson, CEO of CanWaCH. “We see that 83 per cent of Canadians believe it’s important for Canada to lead efforts to improve the health of women and children worldwide, while 85 per cent agree that stopping the spread of infectious diseases abroad directly affects our own health. Canadians recognize that global health isn’t just about helping others, it’s part of a much bigger picture.”
Interestingly, strong support for ODA comes despite a stark misunderstanding of current spend. When asked what percentage of the federal budget should be allocated to ODA, the average response was 21.9 per cent. In reality, Canada spent about 2.6 per cent of its total budget expenses on ODA in 2022-2023 (the most recent year this data is available).
“Despite the focus on domestic concerns like the cost of living and health care, Canadians continue to see global engagement as a critical part of our national identity,” said David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data. “The fact that 79 per cent of Canadians support ODA, even with misconceptions about how much we’re currently spending, suggests a deep-rooted belief that Canada should play a meaningful role on the global stage. Canadians want to see their country not just participate in, but actively contribute to solving global challenges.”
Aga Khan Foundation Canada
Bigger than our Borders
Cooperation Canada
Guelph Institute of Development Studies (University of Guelph)
Plan International Canada
Save the Children Canada
World Vision Canada
Global Affairs Canada
Media Contact
Amber St. Louis
Director, Communications, CanWaCH
613-240-8950 | [email protected]
David Coletto
Chief Executive Officer, Abacus Data
613-884-4730 | [email protected]
About
CanWaCH | The Canadian Partnership for Women and Children’s Health (CanWaCH) is a coalition of more than 100 Canadian non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academic institutions, health professional associations and individuals partnering to improve health outcomes for women and children in more than 1,000 communities worldwide.
To learn more visit: CanWaCH.ca
Abacus Data | Abacus Data is an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail and exceptional value. We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.
To learn more visit: abacusdata.ca
Published:
November 1, 2024
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