Global Connections · Term 3

Canada's Role in Foreign Aid

Analyzing Canada's contributions to humanitarian assistance and long-term development aid globally.

About This Topic

Canada has a long tradition of providing aid to other countries, but the nature of that aid is often debated. This topic analyzes Canada's role in providing humanitarian assistance (short-term relief) and long-term development aid. Students learn the difference between 'tied aid' (which must be spent on Canadian goods) and 'untied aid.'

This unit also explores how foreign aid helps Canada's global reputation and its role in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This topic benefits from structured discussions where students must grapple with the question: Should Canada increase its spending on foreign aid even when there are pressing needs at home?

Active Learning Ideas

Inquiry Circle: Aid Case Studies

Groups research a recent Canadian aid project (e.g., in Haiti or Ukraine). They present on what type of aid was provided and how it was intended to help the local community.

⏱ 60 min·Small Groups

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Formal Debate: The Aid Budget

Students debate whether Canada should meet the UN target of spending 0.7% of its GNI on foreign aid. They consider arguments about global responsibility versus domestic priorities.

⏱ 50 min·Whole Class

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Think-Pair-Share: Tied vs. Untied Aid

Pairs discuss the pros and cons of 'tied aid.' They brainstorm why the Canadian government might prefer it and why the recipient country might find it challenging.

⏱ 30 min·Pairs

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Foreign aid is just giving money to other governments.

What to Teach Instead

Aid often takes the form of food, medicine, technical expertise, or support for local non-profits. Showing a 'breakdown' of an aid package helps students see the variety of assistance.

Common Misconception

Canada is one of the top donors of foreign aid in the world.

What to Teach Instead

While we are a significant donor, we often fall below the UN target and spend less than many European nations. Comparing 'aid as a % of GNI' helps students see Canada's relative contribution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between humanitarian and development aid?

Humanitarian aid is short-term relief for emergencies like natural disasters or war. Development aid is long-term support intended to improve a country's economy, health, or education systems.

What is 'tied aid'?

Tied aid is foreign assistance that must be spent on goods or services from the donor country (e.g., Canada giving aid that must be used to buy Canadian wheat or hire Canadian engineers).

How does foreign aid benefit Canada?

It can improve Canada's global reputation, foster political stability in other regions, create future trading partners, and address global issues like climate change and disease before they reach our borders.

How can active learning help students understand foreign aid?

Foreign aid is a complex ethical and political issue. Active learning through case studies and debates allows students to explore these nuances. By analyzing the 'real-world' impact of aid projects, students move beyond simple 'charity' models to understand the strategic and moral reasons for international assistance. These strategies help them develop a more sophisticated view of Canada's role in the global community.

Browse curriculum by country

• Americas
• US
• CA
• MX
• CL
• CO
• BR

• Europe
• UK
• IE
• FR
• DE
• ES
• IT
• NL
• PT
• SE

• Asia & Pacific
• IN
• SG
• AU