Canada's Global Health Leadership: A New Era of Opportunity

A Call for Renewed Commitment

The world stage is calling for a stronger Canadian voice in global health. Amidst escalating economic and climate crises, political divisions, and the rising tide of misinformation, the need for international cooperation has never been more critical. As the United States steps back from global affairs, Canada's role as a champion of multilateralism is poised to become even more vital.

A recent report, published in March 2025 by an expert panel convened by the Royal Society of Canada and the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, offers a strategic roadmap for Canada's global health leadership over the next two decades. This report highlights the interconnectedness of domestic and global health, emphasizing that strengthening one inherently benefits the other.

Domestic Policy and Global Impact

With a federal election on the horizon and a new Prime Minister at the helm, Canada stands at a pivotal moment. This is a crucial opportunity to redefine the nation's place on the world stage and reaffirm its commitment to international collaboration. As a leading funder of global health among OECD countries, Canada has the potential to make a significant impact.

Lessons from the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical importance of global health security and the need for enhanced data sharing, improved federal-provincial coordination, and a focus on health equity for marginalized groups. These lessons, confirmed by various reviews, inform the seven recommendations outlined in the report, urging Canada to view domestic and global health as mutually reinforcing priorities.

Beyond Healthcare: Building Equitable Health Systems

Global health cooperation extends beyond simply providing healthcare services. It necessitates building robust and equitable health systems, with a focus on women and primary care. Canada's continued commitment to maternal and child health, as exemplified by the Muskoka Initiative and the Global Financing Facility, provides a strong foundation for future action. Building upon the 2024 commitment to free contraceptives within Canada, the report recommends extending this initiative globally during Canada's G7 presidency in 2025.

One Health: A Holistic Approach

The report advocates for a One Health approach to global health security, integrating the health of humans, animals, and the environment. This holistic perspective, informed by the wisdom and experience of Indigenous peoples in Canada, offers a sustainable and equitable path towards preparedness for future health emergencies.

Addressing the Global Health Workforce Crisis

The global health workforce crisis demands innovative solutions. Canada currently relies heavily on internationally educated health professionals, raising concerns about ethical recruitment practices. The report recommends leveraging Canada's G7 presidency to establish a global commitment to achieve "net zero poaching" of health workers by 2035.

A Unified Strategy for Global Health Leadership

To effectively lead on these critical issues, the report calls for the development of a comprehensive global health strategy, spearheaded by a newly appointed global health ambassador. This strategy, complemented by a research and innovation blueprint incorporating evolving health technologies, would provide the focus and framework necessary to maximize the impact of Canada’s global health investments.

The report serves as a call to action for the Canadian global health community, urging stakeholders to embrace these recommendations and champion a renewed commitment to multilateralism in pursuit of a healthier and more equitable future for all.