International Relations

The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) is responsible for setting Canada's direction internationally and has identified several strategic priorities in its 2006 Report on Priorities and Plans which directly affects the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC), including:

Likewise, the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) also plays a key part in Canada's international presence, as the primary conduit for development assistance.

In the context of the CSC's Mission and contribution to broader government objectives, the Service has two primary goals in relation to international engagement:

The Service's international operations rest on these two pillars, however, it is important to remember that the CSC mandate is primarily domestic in nature. As a result, CSC international engagement will focus its efforts and activities on contributing to CSC's five strategic priorities.

CSC is recognized as a world leader in the field of corrections and institution management. In developing its programs, CSC collaborates with a wide range of domestic and international governmental and non-governmental organizations(NGO's).

CSC's international programs are consistent with Canada's international policy objectives of contributing to international stability and peace by promoting good governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights and democratic development.

In collaboration with organizations such as the United Nations (UN), the Organization of American States (OAS), the Council of Europe (COE), and various other international partners, CSC continues to work towards overall improvement and ongoing co-operation among the three pillars of the criminal justice system - police, courts and corrections.