What is International Development Week? 6th February

1. Raising Awareness: The week helps to raise awareness about the challenges faced by communities in developing countries and the efforts of Canadian organisations to address these challenges.

2. Recognizing Contributions: It is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of Canadian organizations in reducing poverty, promoting gender equality, and supporting sustainable development initiatives around the world.

3. Encouraging Involvement: The event aims to inspire Canadians to get involved in efforts to create positive change, whether by volunteering, donating, or advocating for policy change.

4. Building Community: International Development Week brings together organizations, community groups, and individuals to share ideas, knowledge, and resources and to build a stronger and more connected community of people working towards a common goal.

Overall, International Development Week plays an important role in promoting international development and encouraging action and engagement on this important issue.

The goal of IDW was to raise awareness about international development and encourage Canadians to get involved in efforts to reduce poverty and promote sustainable development around the world. Over the years, the event has grown to include a wide range of activities, from educational workshops and presentations to cultural events and community celebrations.

In 2013, CIDA was merged into the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Development (DFATD), and the responsibility for IDW was transferred to the new department. Despite this change, the tradition of celebrating International Development Week has continued, and the event remains an important platform for raising awareness and encouraging engagement on issues related to international development.

1991: International Development Week is established by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) to raise awareness about international development and encourage Canadians to get involved in reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development around the world.

1991–2012: IDW grows in size and scope, with a range of activities and events taking place across Canada, including educational workshops and presentations, cultural events, and community celebrations.

2013: CIDA is merged into the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Development (DFATD), and the responsibility for IDW is transferred to the new department. Despite this change, the tradition of celebrating IDW continues.

2014-present: IDW continues to be celebrated annually in Canada, with a focus on raising awareness, inspiring action, and building a community around issues related to international development.

Overall, International Development Week has been an important event in Canada for over three decades, promoting international development and encouraging Canadians to get involved in efforts to create positive change in the world.