Prime Minister Mark Carney has indicated a subtle shift in Canada's international approach while maintaining the country remains committed to core values, including gender equality in global affairs.
Policy Language Evolution
During the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Carney clarified that Canada continues to uphold feminist principles in its foreign engagements, though the specific terminology of "feminist foreign policy" appears to be undergoing revision. The development occurred on Sunday, November 23, 2025, as world leaders gathered for critical discussions on global economic and political cooperation.
The Prime Minister was photographed sharing a fist-bump with Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand as she arrived for a working session, demonstrating the continued collaboration between Canada's top leadership on international matters. The visual moment captured by The Canadian Press showed both leaders engaged and coordinated in their approach to the summit's agenda.
Maintaining Core Values
While the explicit language around feminist foreign policy has shifted, government officials emphasize that the fundamental commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment in international relations remains intact. Carney's administration appears to be refining how these principles are communicated and implemented across Canada's global engagements.
The adjustment in terminology comes as Canada navigates complex international relationships and seeks to advance its interests while promoting human rights and equality. The government maintains that substantive policy commitments toward gender equality continue to guide Canada's diplomatic and development efforts worldwide.
Global Context and Implications
This linguistic shift occurs against the backdrop of Canada's participation in the G20 Summit, where leaders from the world's largest economies convene to address pressing global challenges. The modification in how Canada frames its gender equality approach in foreign policy may reflect evolving strategies for advancing these values in diverse international contexts.
Observers note that while the specific phrase "feminist foreign policy" may be used less frequently, the practical implementation of gender-sensitive approaches in Canada's international assistance, trade relationships, and diplomatic engagements continues to be a priority for the Carney government.
