International Development Week; February 4-10, 2024, All you need to know

International Development Week (IDW) occurs annually during the first full week of February, showcasing Canada's commitment to international development priorities and recognizing the significant contributions of Canadians both domestically and globally.

Scheduled for February 4-10, 2024, IDW will feature a diverse array of events organized by Canadian civil society organizations, post-secondary institutions, Global Affairs Canada, and other stakeholders. This year's focus during IDW 2024 is on highlighting the crucial role of youth in shaping the global future, amplifying the voices of the Global South, communities engaged in international development, the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and emphasizing themes related to gender equality and women and girls.

What is IDW?

IDW and SDG may seem like a mix of letters, but at Memorial University, they represent a significant period. This time is dedicated to acknowledging the efforts in International Development and our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals.
International Development Week (IDW) is an annual event in Canada that aims to showcase the initiatives undertaken by various associations and organizations in fulfilling their roles as global citizens.

Memorial's involvement in IDW is coordinated with the overarching theme set by Global Affairs Canada and through our association with the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC). Each year, IDW's theme aligns with the United Nations' (UN) Sustainable Development Goals. The activities planned for IDW 2022 at Memorial will likewise correspond to specific goals advocated by the UN.

Celebration

The celebrations during International Development Week 2024 (#IDW2024) will be led by Global Affairs Canada, Canadian development partner organizations, and engaged Canadians through various events and activities nationwide. The week is anticipated to incorporate a mix of virtual, in-person, and hybrid events to enhance the impact and accessibility of the activities. With its overarching theme, "Go for the Goals," IDW 2024 calls on Canadians to actively contribute to the realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to inform, inspire, and engage Canadians in Canada's international development initiatives.