Do you think it is important to be independent? Do you consider yourself to be an independent person? In this activity, you will learn that the ultimate goal of any foreign aid policy is to bring a country to a point where it can function independently.

Canada wants to help developing countries reach the point where they can be independent and care for themselves. To set this path, foreign aid focuses on certain areas. Aid that is delivered usually has a sequence, but it is not necessary to achieve one step before moving to the next one.

Basic needs that are life saving are the first to be addressed. Establishing businesses and a strong economy are the last to be introduced. Between these two areas are education and infrastructure. Human rights are always present. At first, the focus is on the right to life, but later, the focus moves to areas concerning aspects such as freedom of speech.

The following gives an overview of the process and steps by which a country can move toward a better way of life for its citizens.

To say that this path is challenging is an understatement, but it is one that must be taken. Why? Technology has linked people all over the world so that the global village idea is a reality. Humanitarianism means that decent people cannot ignore the difficulties of millions of people whose suffering is real. During this century, awareness has grown so that at least some of the world's problems require a level of international cooperation that has not been needed previously. World peace is an ultimate goal for many, and given the present situation in the world, it is to everyone's benefit to raise the standard of living of the poorest nations to try to avoid potential conflicts. The situation in our poor nations is very complex and the solutions even more so. Change will be challenging and very slow, but it must begin with even the smallest steps.

Self-check!