International security and disarmament

Canada promotes security and stability abroad, delivers international programs that address security challenges, and responds effectively to international crises. Canada advances international security by addressing a broad range of challenges, including but not limited to: terrorism; risks linked to the proliferation of conventional, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear weapons; transnational organized crime; and human smuggling.

Terrorism

International and domestic terrorist groups are present in Canada; some are engaged in terrorist activity here, while others are active beyond Canada’s borders. Canada’s Counter-Terrorism Strategy outlines the first priority of the Government of Canada: to protect Canada and ensure the safety of Canadians at home and abroad. For more information, see Terrorism.

Non-proliferation and disarmament

Canada's goal is the total elimination of all nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, and introducing effective controls on their means of delivery. For more information, see Non-Proliferation and Disarmament.

Weapons and materials of mass destruction (WMD) threat reduction

DFATD’s Global Partnership Program (GPP) is the main mechanism through which Canada supports international efforts through concrete projects to prevent the proliferation of weapons and materials of mass destruction (WMD) and their potential use by terrorists. For more information, see Global Partnership Program.

Transnational crime

Transnational organized crime fuels crime in Canada; its adverse impacts touch all Canadians. That means looking beyond our own borders and focussing on countries that represent a threat to Canada. For more information, see Transnational Crime.

Research and outreach

Canada draws upon the expertise of academic/think-tank communities in Canada and abroad to inform and support the development of Canada's international security policy. For more information, see International Security Research and Outreach Programme.

Stabilization and reconstruction

The effects of armed conflict and state fragility often spill over international borders, posing a challenge to Canadian security, stability, and prosperity. The Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force (START) provides rapid, responsive and effective stabilization and reconstruction programming and deployments in crises or fragile situations throughout the world. For more information, see Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force.