China and Canadian Official Development Assistance: Reassessing the Relationship

Abstract:

The paper examines the role of various Canadian bodies in providing aid and expertise in a number of areas of Chinese society.  It seeks to show that a policy that calls for a reduction in Canadian involvement because China is no longer poor, or because its human rights policies are still restrictive, is shortsighted and ignores the reality of both China and of the achievements of Canadian programs as catalysts for change in China. It challenges the position of the Conservative Party government in reducing engagement with Beijing.