Canada contributes $7.1M to support democracy in Ukraine

OTTAWA – Canada is contributing $7.1 million to support the democratic process in Ukraine.

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems gets $3 million to strengthen reform on transparency and anti-corruption in the Ukrainian political process.

Another $2.9 million goes to the National Democratic Institute to help Ukrainians practise transparent election financing and promote women’s political empowerment.

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe will be given$1.2 million to support the administration and co-ordination of elections.

Foreign Affairs Minister Rob Nicholson says the money will support Ukraine’s efforts to build a more peaceful, democratic and prosperous future.

Since January 2014, Canada has contributed more than $568 million in assistance to Ukraine, including two $200-million, low-interest loans to help stabilize the economy.