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Canada has been
supporting humanitarian assistance and socio-economic development in
Pakistan for more than four decades. In the early years,
Canadian International
Development Agency (CIDA)
supported building economic infrastructure and increasing
agricultural production; however, over the last decade, the
assistance program has focused on strengthening institutions,
developing policies, and building partnerships in key areas such as
human development and environmental sustainability.
CIDA's approach of supporting the development of community-based
organizations, especially among ethnic minorities, women, and other
marginalized groups, has enabled these organizations to deliver
essential social services, improve the standard of living of their
communities, and participate more actively and effectively in local
governance. CIDA has formed strong partnerships with these
organizations and continues to work with them, helping them to build
networks, improve their working environment, deliver health and
education services, and act as advocates with government on behalf
of their constituencies.
A major portion of CIDA's program in Pakistan promotes the role of
women by improving their access to health care, education, and
income opportunities; supporting them in their new roles in local
politics; and assisting them in their advocacy work with the
government and the general public. CIDA is also supporting the
Government of Pakistan's decentralization program, helping develop
policies and implement programs that benefit the poor, fostering
public participation, and sensitizing local governments to community
needs and priorities.
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