United Nations Security Council resolution on women, peace, and security.
In addition to the federal government’s actions, the Senator drew attention to the significant efforts made by provincial legislatures to increase women’s role in politics and public life. She mentioned an important milestone; out of Canada’s 10 provinces, six are or have been led by women.
“Of course, this is just an overview of the situation in Canada, and a very encouraging and positive one at that,” she noted. “There are still many areas where we must do better.” In this regard, Senator Fortin-Duplessis highlighted the business world. Only 13.5% of small businesses and 4% of medium-sized businesses are owned solely by women, whereas 54% and 66% of these businesses are owned solely by men. Furthermore, women are nearly absent on boards of directors, holding a mere 5% of seats. To address the situation, the Canadian government set up an advisory panel of public and private sector leaders to advocate for more women on corporate boards of directors. The panel’s final report and recommendations will be released later this year.
Senator Fortin-Duplessis concluded by emphasizing that on an international scale, full and constant equality between men and women is something we must continually strive for. One thing is certain, however: significant progress has been made. She called on everyone to keep up the good work.
Moving from Formal to Substantive Equality
Sec. 15 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms (Canada)
15. (1) Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability.
(2) Subsection (1) does not preclude any law, program or activity that has as its object the amelioration of conditions of disadvantaged individuals or groups including those that are disadvantaged because of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability.