Tribute to Monique Vézina

It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Monique Vézina, an exceptional woman and valued ally of CECI. A former member of our Board of Directors and honorary member, she left her mark on the organization through her commitment to inclusive economic and social development and the advancement of women.

Appointed Minister of External Relations, responsible for the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 1984, Monique Vézina advocated the creation of a broad partnership with civil society players such as NGOs, private companies, unions, professional associations and cooperatives for the implementation of cooperation programs. In addition, to support their actions, she introduces multi-year financing, greatly facilitating the realization of development projects.

With CIDA President Margaret Catley-Carlson, she drew up the first Women and Development policy highlighting the central role of women in community development. Under her impetus, Canada became a major player in promoting this point of view at the UN and other multilateral institutions.

In May 1986, at the United Nations General Assembly on Africa, she announced that Canada would write off the debt of sub-Saharan African countries

We have fond memories of the tribute paid to him at the CECI International Forum in 2020. His leadership and values will continue to inspire our mission

Our thoughts are with his family and friends.

To find out more about this great lady: https://ici.radio-canada.ca/nouvelle/1701592/deputee-rimouski-temiscouata-parti-conservateur?