International Womens Day Canada Highlights Progress on Women’s Leadership and Safety
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney marked International Women’s Day 2026 with a statement recognizing the historic progress made by women in Canada while outlining the federal government’s ongoing efforts to advance equality, leadership opportunities, and protection from gender-based violence.
In his message released March 8, Carney reflected on the legacy of women who have shaped Canada’s democracy, noting that progress toward equality has been driven by generations of women who demanded representation and fairness in political, economic, and social life.
The Prime Minister referenced the milestone achieved more than a century ago when Agnes Macphail became the first woman elected to Canada’s House of Commons, describing it as an early step in a broader movement that secured voting rights, property rights, reproductive rights, and parental leave for women across the country.
Expanding Economic Opportunities for Women
Carney emphasized that Canada’s economic strength depends on ensuring women have full access to leadership and workforce opportunities. He highlighted the government’s renewed funding for Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE), which supports programs designed to improve women’s participation in the economy.
According to the Prime Minister’s statement, WAGE’s Women’s Program has reached more than 400,000 women nationwide through mentorship initiatives, job training programs, and employment opportunities.
Additional support is being provided through the Women’s Economic and Leadership Opportunities Fund, which finances projects aimed at addressing barriers that limit women’s advancement in the workforce and leadership positions. To date, more than 160 organizations across Canada — including several serving northern communities — have received funding through the program.
On this International Women’s Day, we remain vigilant about what we must protect.
And we remain determined about accomplishing the work ahead. pic.twitter.com/2mb34wmOwz
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) March 8, 2026
Addressing Gender-Based Violence
The Prime Minister also stressed that economic equality must be accompanied by safety and protection from violence. His statement pointed to new federal legislative efforts aimed at strengthening Canada’s response to gender-based violence and improving access to justice for victims.
Carney further reiterated the government’s commitment to responding to the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, a set of recommendations aimed at addressing systemic violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
Reflecting on Progress and the Work Ahead
In his remarks, Carney said International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to reflect on Canada’s progress toward gender equality while recognizing the need for continued action.
The Prime Minister concluded that strengthening women’s participation in leadership, the workforce, and public life remains essential to Canada’s long-term prosperity and democratic health.
International Women’s Day is observed globally each year on March 8, celebrating the achievements of women and advocating for gender equality in societies around the world.
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