Nova Scotia Joins National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence is a complex issue that can happen in any relationship, and it continues to be a significant barrier to achieving gender equality in Canada.

Today, November 9, Nova Scotia joined the Government of Canada and other provinces and territories to sign the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence at the 40th annual federal-provincial-territorial meeting of the ministers responsible for the Status of Women, held in New Glasgow.

“Gender-based violence undermines a person’s sense of self-worth and their self-esteem. It is deeply rooted in harmful stereotypes and has no place in our country,” said Karla MacFarlane, Minister responsible for the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women. “Nova Scotia is proud to be a part of this historic announcement and to reaffirm our commitment to preventing violence and supporting victims and their families.”

The national action plan signals Canada’s collective commitment to ending gender-based violence and will ensure that the work of provinces, territories and Indigenous partners is aligned as they continue to support survivors and their families, and work closely with service providers, experts, advocates, researchers and across government to address this complex issue.

Quotes:

“Gender-based violence is a significant barrier to achieving gender equality, but it is preventable. The National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence is a timely and necessary step to address the persistent gaps that have prevented the end of gender-based violence previously. Canada is now one step closer to building the safer and more equal Canada for all.”

– Marci Ien, federal Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth

Quick Facts:

• more than 11 million people in Canada have experienced intimate partner violence at least once since age15
• this year’s federal budget proposed an investment of $539.3 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to support provinces and territories in their efforts to implement the national action plan
• the national plan aligns with the work of Standing Together, Nova Scotia’s commitment to preventing gender-based violence