2023 to 2027 Justice Sustainable Development Strategy
Department of Justice Canada
Table of Contents
- Executive Summary
- Section 1: Introduction to the Justice Sustainable Development Strategy
- Section 2: Justice Canada’s Sustainable Development Vision
- Section 3: Listening to Canadians
- Section 4: Justice Canada’s Commitments
- Goal 10 – Advancing Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and Take Action to Reduce Inequality
- Goal 12 – Reduce Waste and Transition to Zero-Emission Vehicles
- Goal 13 – Take Action on Climate Change and its Impacts
- Goal 16 – Promote a Fair and Accessible Justice System, Enforce Environmental Laws and Manage Impacts
- Goal 17 – Strengthen Partnerships to Promote Global Action on Sustainable Development
- Section 5: Integrating Sustainable Development
Executive Summary
The 2022 to 2026 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) presents the Government of Canada’s sustainable development goals and targets, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act. In keeping with the purpose of this Act to provide the legal framework for developing and implementing a FSDS that will make decision making related to sustainable development more transparent and subject to accountability to Parliament, the Department of Justice supports the goals laid out in the FSDS through the activities described in the Justice Sustainable Development Strategy (JSDS).
The Department recognises that sustainable development – social and economic sustainability, as well as environmental sustainability – contributes to the Department’s ability to achieve its strategic outcomes. To this end, Justice Canada’s vision for sustainable development is the integration of sustainable development – in its broadest terms – with departmental objectives, needs and practices. The JSDS 2023 to 2027 plays an integral role in achieving Justice Canada’s vision for sustainable development.
In the JSDS 2023 to 2027, Justice Canada sets out fifteen departmental actions that support the priorities, targets and implementation strategies of the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) 2022 to 2026 – including those to support FSDS Goals:
- Goal 10 on Advancing Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and Take Action to Reduce Inequality
- Goal 12 on Reduce Waste and Transition to Zero-Emission Vehicles
- Goal 13 on Take Action on Climate Change and its Impacts
- Goal 16 on Promote a Fair and Accessible Justice System, Enforce Environmental Laws and Manage Impacts
- Goal 17 on Strengthen Partnerships to Promote Global Action on Sustainable Development
In addition, this strategy describes a number of initiatives Justice Canada is undertaking that contribute to the Government’s broader sustainable development objectives. These measures include support for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through Justice Canada’s Access to Justice Secretariat and the UN Declaration Act Implementation Secretariat (see Section 2), as well as initiatives to: promote broader adoption and integration of flexible work arrangements; build a culture of sustainable practices in meetings, events and operations; and expand the successful Ottawa public transit card pilot project to regions (see Section 5).
The Department’s Sustainable Development Steering Committee (SDSC) is mandated to oversee Justice Canada’s Sustainable Development Program. In this role, it will monitor the progress of all of the initiatives identified in this strategy, and provide advice, guidance and direction as needed to ensure issues are addressed. Additional information on SDSC’s role and responsibilities, as well as those of other Justice Canada stakeholders, are set out in Section 5.
In addition to the work undertaken under the framework of the Sustainable Development Program, Justice Canada will continue to ensure that its decision making process includes consideration of FSDS goals and targets through its Strategic Environment Assessment (SEA) process.
Once approved by the Minister of Justice, the JSDS 2023 to 2027 is tabled in Parliament. During subsequent years, the Department reports on its sustainable development targets through annual planning and reporting documents tabled in Parliament.
Section 1: Introduction to the Justice Sustainable Development Strategy
The 2022 to 2026 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) presents the Government of Canada’s sustainable development goals and targets, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act. This is the first FSDS to be framed using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda and provides a balanced view of the environmental, social and economic dimensions of sustainable development.
In keeping with the purpose of the Act, to make decision-making related to sustainable development more transparent and accountable to Parliament, Justice Canada supports the goals laid out in the FSDS through the activities described in this Justice Sustainable Development Strategy (JSDS).
The Federal Sustainable Development Act also sets out 7 principles that must be considered in the development of the FSDS as well as all Departmental Sustainable Development Strategies. These basic principles have been considered and incorporated in this JSDS.
In order to promote coordinated action on sustainable development across the Government of Canada, this strategy integrates efforts to advance Canada’s implementation of the 2030 Agenda National Strategy, supported by the Global Indicator Framework (GIF) and Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets and indicators. The strategy also now captures SDG initiatives that fall outside the scope of the FSDS to inform the development of Canada’s Annual Report on the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs.
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Photo of landscape featuring a lake in the forefront surrounded by evergreen trees and rolling, lush green hills.
Section 2: Justice Canada’s Sustainable Development Vision
Justice Canada’s Approach to Sustainable Development
The Department of Justice (Justice Canada, the Department) strives to ensure that Canada has a fair, relevant and accessible justice system that reflects Canadian values, and that the federal government is supported by high quality legal services. To achieve these strategic outcomes, Justice Canada promotes legal and business excellence, with a strategic focus on its workforce, on innovation and collaboration, and on open, transparent and accountable operations.
Sustainable development is embedded in these principles of business excellence. It is factored into decision-making as the Department seeks to determine which approaches, initiatives, strategies and investments will put Justice Canada in the best position to deliver its programs and services, and meet the expectations for both its clients and Canadians.
Justice Canada’s Vision for Sustainable Development
The Department recognises that sustainable development – social and economic sustainability, as well as environmental sustainability – contributes to the Department’s ability to achieve its strategic outcomes.
To this end, Justice Canada’s vision for sustainable development is the integration of sustainable development – in its broadest terms – with departmental objectives, needs and practices. In order to bring this vision into effect, the Department is taking a multi-pronged approach that involves:
- ensuring the Department is able to bring a broad sustainable development perspective to discussion and decision making;
- exploring opportunities to introduce sustainable practices through corporate, policy and program-based initiatives
- encouraging responsible management of resources, sustainable economic practices and healthy communities through education and awareness building; and,
- integrating an intersectional GBA Plus approach into decision-making processes to support the development of responsive and inclusive initiatives.
The Justice Sustainable Development Strategy (JSDS) 2023 to 2027 plays an integral role in achieving Justice Canada’s vision for sustainable development. The Strategy provides a framework for the Department to make progress on sustainable development with specific, measurable and time-bound targets (see section 4), while promoting broader integration of sustainable development across functional and business activities and practices at Justice Canada (see section 5). Collectively, the actions set out in the JSDS 2023 to 2027 are moving Justice Canada closer to realizing its vision for sustainable development.
United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals
As a signatory to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Government of Canada is committed to its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to the overarching vision to leave no one behind. Of particular relevance is SDG 16, which calls for peaceful, just and inclusive societies that provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. Justice Canada is the Government of Canada lead for advancing SDG 16.
While SDG 16 is an essential component in the advancement of the overall 2030 Agenda, Justice Canada provides support for a number of other SDGs, as identified in Canada’s Federal Implementation Plan for the UN 2030 Agenda, including SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). In addition, and in support of the implementation of the FSDS 2022 to 2026, Justice Canada contributes to the advancement of SDG 12 (Responsible Production and Consumption), SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) (see section 4).
Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Societies and Strong Institutions
Access to Justice
The Department, supported by its Access to Justice Secretariat, leads federal efforts to advance SDG 16 domestically and abroad. SDG 16 calls for peaceful, just and inclusive societies, the provision of equal access to justice for all, and the building of effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels, which together promote and reinforce the rule of law and democratic values. To foster greater collaboration, the Department will champion and advance the theme of people-centred access to justice and other SDG 16-related themes among key partners and stakeholders at the federal, provincial, territorial and international levels. This includes continued support for the work of the Action Committee on Access to Justice in Civil and Family Matters, and support on the implementation of Canada’s 2022-2024 National Action Plan on Open Government.
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Decal for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
The Department leads the Federal Victim Strategy (FVS), a horizontal Government of Canada initiative with the objectives of increasing access to justice for victims and survivors of crime and giving victims of crime a more effective voice in the criminal justice system. The FVS utilizes a multi-pronged approach through three interrelated strategic activities: criminal law reform, program development and delivery, and policy development and federal leadership. The work undertaken by Justice Canada as a part of the FVS involves ongoing consideration of intersecting identity factors of victims of crime, such as sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as race, age and indigeneity, among many others, making it relevant to SDG 5 and SDG 10 as well.
In addition, the Department provides funding to community organizations and other levels of government that are working to support peaceful, just and inclusive societies and strong institutions. Through this funding, a wide range of support is provided to Indigenous communities, victims of crime, people with low incomes, families and young people. Funded projects also help Canadians understand the law and access the justice system in both official languages.
Further, the Department develops options that take into consideration the lived experiences of Canadians, including families experiencing separation or divorce and children, and implements reforms to improve the family justice system.
Promoting the Rule of Law and Commitment to International Justice
The War Crimes Program supports Canada's commitment towards international justice and the fight against impunity for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. It also protects the integrity of Canada's immigration and refugee policies by not extending rights and privileges to persons who have committed or have been complicit in these crimes.
The War Crimes Program is delivered jointly by four partners - the Department of Justice, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The goal of the Program is to deny safe haven in Canada to persons believed to have committed or been complicit in war crimes, crimes against humanity and/or genocide (including forms of sexual and gender-based violence) and to seek accountability for their conduct. To that end, the partners work together to oversee the detection and investigation of individuals alleged to have committed such crimes anywhere in the world.
Gender Equality
Gender-Based Analysis Plus
Ending all forms of discrimination is crucial to sustaining economic growth and development for a sustainable future. To help reduce gender inequality in Canada and to help achieve fair and inclusive outcomes for all Canadians, the Department will continue to implement intersectional Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA Plus) considerations in all areas of its work. GBA Plus is an analytical approach used to support the development of responsive and inclusive initiatives, including legislation, policies, programs, and services. An intersectional GBA Plus approach helps clarify who is impacted by an issue and how it affects them by considering different identity factors beyond biological (sex) and socio-cultural (gender) differences. It includes the examination of a range of other intersecting identity factors (including age, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, education, language, geography, religion and spirituality, racialization and ethnicity, culture, immigration status, and economic status, among others). In addition, GBA Plus involves the analysis of structural and systemic barriers, including developing mitigation strategies to address them, thereby improving access to justice and achieving more inclusive and equitable results for all Canadians.
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Decal for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
Reduced Inequalities
Addressing Systemic Discrimination and overrepresentation of First Nations, Inuit and Métis, Black and racialized Canadians, and members of marginalized populations in the criminal justice system
The Department will take action to support SDG 10, which calls for reduced inequalities, by taking action to address systemic discrimination and the overrepresentation of First Nations, Inuit and Métis, Black and racialized Canadians in the criminal justice system and ensure that all people living in Canada have access to fair and just treatment. This includes work to continue developing an Indigenous Justice Strategy (IJS) and to develop Canada’s Black Justice Strategy (CBJS). The Department will also support implementation of SDG 10 by providing funding through programs including the Indigenous Justice Program, the Indigenous Courtwork Program, the Legal Aid Program’s Impact of Race and Culture Assessments component, and other programs.
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Decal for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
In addition, the Department will continue to lead on the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act), in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples and in collaboration with Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) and other government departments. The UN Declaration Act states that implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) must include concrete measures to address injustices, combat prejudice and eliminate all forms of violence, racism, and discrimination including systemic racism and discrimination, against Indigenous peoples and Indigenous elders, youth, children, women, men, persons with disabilities and gender-diverse persons and two-spirit persons.
Indigenous Justice Strategy
Justice Canada will continue to work in consultation and collaboration with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories to develop an Indigenous Justice Strategy (IJS) to address systemic discrimination and the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system. In the spirit of reconciliation, Justice Canada recognizes that the development of the IJS must be informed by the lived experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. The Department has and continues to regularly engage with Indigenous governments, organizations and communities, Elders, 2SLGBTQI+ people, women, urban Indigenous people, provincial and territorial partners, as well as justice stakeholders and practitioners. The overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system is a serious and complex issue rooted in systemic discrimination and Canada’s legacy of colonialism. Making meaningful, lasting change is just as complex and requires a long-term commitment to transform not only legislation, policies and programs, but also the way the federal government, provinces and territories collaborate with Indigenous communities and organizations. The IJS is being developed by using a broad, collaborative, inclusive, distinctions-based and regionally-based engagement process consistent with the principles set out in the UN Declaration Act, and respecting existing relationships.
Canada’s Black Justice Strategy
The Department will focus on implementing criminal justice system reforms to address the systemic anti-Black racism and discrimination that has contributed to the overrepresentation of Black people in the criminal justice system, by collaborating with Black communities in the development of CBJS. The development of the CBJS will be informed by broad and inclusive consultations with Black communities, as well as experts and stakeholders that reflect the diversity of backgrounds, experiences and expertise of Black communities across Canada. An intersectional approach, which notably takes into account the Gender-based Analysis Plus, will be at the heart of the community engagements and consultations. Importance will also be placed on including the voices of more marginalized Black populations: 2SLGBTQI communities, people with disabilities, people living in precarious conditions or suffering from mental health issues, and young people. These consultations will be complemented by the review of existing literature and studies on the treatment and experiences of Black individuals in contact with the criminal justice system.
Implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act
On June 21st, 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) received Royal Assent and came into force. The UN Declaration Act provides a roadmap for the Government of Canada and Indigenous peoples to work cooperatively together to implement the Declaration based on the principles of justice, democracy, respect for human rights, non-discrimination and good faith. The preamble to the UN Declaration Act expressly notes that implementation of the Declaration can contribute to supporting sustainable development and responding to growing concerns relating to climate change and its impacts on Indigenous peoples. All federal Ministers have been mandated to implement the Declaration and to work in partnership with Indigenous peoples to advance their rights. The Department is working closely with First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and with partners in federal departments and agencies to support the implementation of the UN Declaration Act.
On June 21st, 2023, Justice Canada published the UN Declaration Act Action Plan, as required by the UN Declaration Act. The Action Plan describes the measures that the Government of Canada will take to achieve the objectives of the Declaration. The Action Plan was developed following a broad, inclusive and distinctions-based consultation and engagement process with First Nations, Inuit and Métis rights-holders, their representative organizations and other key Indigenous partners, ensuring that diverse views of Indigenous people across the country are taken into consideration. In consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples, the Department is developing measures to ensure the consistency of federal laws with the Declaration, supporting implementation of action plan measures, and developing and tabling annual progress reports on the implementation of the UN Declaration Act. The Action Plan addresses intersectional issues, including Indigenous elders, youth, children, women, men, persons with disabilities, and gender-diverse persons and two-spirit persons. Measures in the Action Plan intended to address injustices, combat prejudice and eliminate all forms of violence, racism and discrimination, including systemic racism and discrimination will contribute to addressing inequality.
Indigenous Courtwork Program
The Indigenous Courtwork Program supports Canada’s commitment to addressing overrepresentation of Indigenous people involved in the justice system by working to obtain fair, just, equitable and culturally relevant treatment. Indigenous courtworkers help to reduce recidivism, in part, by providing information to judges about the availability of culturally appropriate alternatives to incarceration which has proven to better support clients on a path to success.
In addition, the Indigenous Courtwork Program provides federal support for the development of Gladue reports which provide comprehensive details of the unique systemic or background factors that contributed to an Indigenous person coming into contact with the law. Critically, Gladue reports contain sentencing recommendations, including the availability of community-based alternatives to incarceration, ultimately improving access to justice for Indigenous people by supporting culturally-appropriate options and potentially decreasing the likelihood of reoffence.
Legal Aid Program – Impact of Race and Culture Assessments funding
The Department supports the implementation of Impact of Race and Culture Assessments (IRCAs). IRCAs are pre-sentencing reports that document the adversity, discrimination, and racism faced by Black and other racialized individuals in the criminal justice system. The Department funds the training of IRCA assessors, the judiciary, and other legal professionals, as well as compensates Legal Aid Plans and Provincial and Territorial Governments for the cost of IRCA reports.
Responsible Consumption and Production
Digital Ambition at Justice Canada
Among the activities being undertaken to advance SDG 12, Justice Canada is exploring the development of a process to digitize certain source records so that the original paper record can be disposed. In appropriate circumstances, digitization allows for documents to be securely stored electronically, rather than in physical form. This results in less paper being consumed and less physical space being required for storage, which in turn contributes to a reduction in our carbon footprint. This initiative aligns with the Government of Canada’s Policy on Service and Digital and Canada’s Digital Ambition. It also supports Justice Canada’s Strategic Plan 2022-2027 and the Department’s Digital Transformation Strategy.
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Decal for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Section 3: Listening to Canadians
As required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act, Justice Canada has taken into account comments on the draft 2022-2026 FSDS made during the public consultation held from March 11 to July 9, 2022.
During the public consultation, more than 700 comments were received from a broad range of stakeholders, including governments, Indigenous organizations, non-governmental organizations, academics, businesses, and individual Canadians in different age groups and of various backgrounds. The draft FSDS was also shared with the appropriate committee of each House of Parliament, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development, and the Sustainable Development Advisory Council for their review and comment.
What We Heard
Across the submissions received, Justice Canada identified sustainable development priorities and issues that affect the Department.
- Canadians engaged constructively with impressive knowledge of, and commitment to, sustainable development. They shared their thoughts on how the concept of sustainable development should evolve. They asked that federal organizations strike more of a balance among the three dimensions of sustainable development by integrating social and economic elements into sustainable development strategies, in addition to environmental commitments. For example, Canadians emphasized a need to address long-standing socio-economic concerns, including the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system, fair and equitable access to justice and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples as strong themes in the consultations.
- Canadians also encouraged federal organizations to raise their ambitions in advancing sustainable development initiatives and to build on previous strategies, including on efforts to minimize the carbon footprint and decarbonize the federal government operations. Canadians stressed the importance of broader uptake in municipal, provincial and national efforts in combatting climate change, noting that the Federal Government should lead by example in emissions reduction and waste diversion by implementing clean and energy-efficient technologies and effective waste solutions within their own buildings and operations.
- Finally, Canadians underscored the importance of strong accountability and reporting on progress in the implementation of sustainable development commitments. Consultation feedback underlined a need for strengthened targets that are increasingly outcome-based and where possible, expanding target time frames to go beyond the four-year FSDS cycle.
What We Did
Justice Canada took the above-mentioned key priorities and issues into consideration in this JSDS. The Department has listened, and the result is an important evolution in the Strategy’s approach in three ways.
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The JSDS 2023 to 2027 provides a more balanced perspective of sustainable development, incorporating social and environmental goals and targets that align with the Department’s mandate and reflect Justice Canada’s unique role in the federal context. For the first time, the JSDS describes actions undertaken by the Department with a view of improving the social and socio-economic well-being of Canadians. These actions include efforts to increase access to justice, taking action to improve fairness in the criminal justice system – including working to address the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in the criminal justice system, and supporting the whole-of-government implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, among others (see Section 4).
In addition, the commitments (see Section 4) and initiatives (see Section 5) described in this Strategy support the implementation of the FSDS 2022-2026, and build upon efforts set out in Justice Canada’s previous JSDS, including on strengthening green procurement, minimizing the environmental impact of printer usage, and maximizing waste diversion from landfill. Further, the Department will continue to advance the internal initiatives set out in the previous strategy, including the full roll-out of the Public Transit CardProject, which encourages staff to opt for less carbon-intensive modes of transport for work-related travel; and through the Modernizing the Way We Work With the Courts Initiative, wherein the Department, in collaboration with the Courts, Law Societies and the private bar associations, will continue efforts to implement procedures and technologies in a more environmentally-conscious manner (see section 5).
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In alignment with the approach taken by the FSDS, Justice Canada takes an iterative approach in its sustainable development planning and evolution. The Justice Sustainable Development Strategy 2023 to 2027 is the Department’s eighth iteration of the JSDS , building on the goals and targets of our previous strategies, and incorporating new elements and lenses – notably the socio-economic lens – as the concept of sustainable development evolves.
In the development of this strategy, over thirty-five unique internal groups were consulted – the most ever in the development of the department’s JSDS – on how they saw the continued advancement and evolution of sustainable development as integrated into their work. This broad internal consultation resulted in several ambitious new targets, including those that support the Greening Government Strategy objective of “The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon and climate-resilient operations, while also reducing environmental impacts beyond carbon, including on waste, water and biodiversity.” These include new goals and targets related to a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions generated by data centres by leveraging cloud computing and low-emitting data storage technologies, as described in section 4 through the commitment on “Migrating applications from low efficiency legacy data centres to energy-efficient solutions.” In the JSDS 2023 to 2027, Justice Canada has also expanded its efforts to support the effective diversion of non-hazardous, plastic and food waste from landfill by adding a new commitment on “Expanding central recycling stations in the National Capital Region to include composting and waste sorting technology,” which in turn will contribute to a reduction in waste sent to landfill (see Section 4).
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Openness, transparency and a results and delivery approach were strong themes in the consultations – each of which remain core principles in the JSDS 2023 to 2027. Through them, the Strategy provides a framework for Justice Canada to make progress on sustainable development initiatives with specific, measurable and time-bound targets, while fostering confidence in Canada’s justice system and delivering on our mandate.
Transparency and accountability are central to the strengthened Federal Sustainable Development Act and in effect, the JSDS. Per the requirements of the Act, at least once in the two years following the tabling of the JSDS 2023 to 2027, the Department will table and publish online a progress report that describes the progress made toward JSDS goals and targets set out in section 4. Communicating progress on strategy implementation through the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy (DSDS) Report contributes to an integrated, whole‑of‑government view of activities supporting sustainable development. Previous sustainable development strategies and associated annual reports are posted on the Justice Canada’s website.
The Strategy does not stop here. It will be updated annually to reflect new or renewed targets and actions, as needed, that align with Justice Canada’s mandate. Results will be added as data becomes available and will outline specific actions that the Department will take to support FSDS goals and targets as new information and sustainable development priorities emerge.
Please find more information on the FSDS public consultation and its results in the FSDS Consultation Report.
Section 4: Justice Canada’s Commitments
Introduction to Section 4
Section four sets out the concrete, measureable and time-bound commitments that demonstrate Justice Canada’s support the implementation of FSDS Goals 10, 12, 13, 16 and 17. Commitments outlined in this section include performance metrics and are reported on annually to Parliament through the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy Report.
Goal 10: Advance Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and Take Action to Reduce Inequality
FSDS Context: The Government of Canada is moving forward on reconciliation and self-determination with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, promoting diversity, equity and inclusion for groups facing discrimination and marginalization, and advancing environmental justice.
Canada's commitment to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples reflects the importance of working collaboratively with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities to advance reconciliation and promote greater equality and prosperity for Indigenous peoples and all Canadians. The Declaration notably affirms rights relating to conserving and protecting the environment on the lands and territories of Indigenous peoples. It also highlights the importance of free, prior and informed consent and the effective and meaningful participation of Indigenous peoples in all matters that affect them, their communities and territories. Free, prior and informed consent is about the federal government working together with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities in good faith, partnership and respect, striving to achieve consensus on decisions affecting their rights and interests.
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Decal for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Target theme: Advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis communities.
Target: Between 2023 and 2026, and every year on an ongoing basis, develop and table annual progress reports on implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada).
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act |
Develop UN Declaration Act Annual Reports in consultation and collaboration with Indigenous partners Program: Legal Policies, Laws and Governance; Indigenous Justice |
Starting points:
Performance indicator:
Targets:
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To ensure that the implementation of the UN Declaration within Canada is having positive impacts for Indigenous peoples, it is necessary that Indigenous voices and perspectives be reflected in annual reporting. The UN Declaration Act requires that the Annual Progress Report be developed in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples. The annual report and the reporting process will need to be carried out in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners. The objective is to increasingly expand the number of partners that contribute to annual reporting to ensure a broad range of perspectives are reflected. Reflecting Indigenous peoples voices through annual reporting is critical for holding the Government of Canada accountable for implementation and to build trust with Indigenous peoples and their representative organizations. Ambition 10.2: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced; Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard. |
Implementation strategies supporting the goal
This section is for implementation strategies that support the goal “Advance reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and take action on inequality” but not a specific FSDS target.
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Other | Implementation of Action Plan measures Program: Various, Justice Canada |
Starting point:
Performance indicator:
Target:
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In accordance with the UN Declaration Act, the Government of Canada worked in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples to identify the measures necessary to ensure federal laws are consistent with the UN Declaration, and to co-develop an action plan to achieve the objectives of the UN Declaration. The UN Declaration Act provides a historic, transformative opportunity to ensure the full implementation of the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples as affirmed in the UN Declaration. The Justice Canada commitments in the Action Plan will be carried out in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples and will support the achievement of multiple objectives of the UN Declaration and the Act, such as: addressing discrimination; ensuring consistency of federal laws with the UN Declaration; monitoring implementation; increasing self-determination and participation in decision-making. How progress is measured and timelines for each of the Action Plan commitments will be determined in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples. More detailed reporting on actions will be completed annually as part of the UN Declaration Act Annual Progress Report. Ambition 10.1: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced; Ambition 10.2: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard. Target 10.3.1: Proportion of population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months on the basis of a ground of discrimination prohibited under international human rights law. |
| Other | Justice measures, including tools and training, developed to ensure effective implementation of the UN Declaration Act and consistency of federal laws with the UN Declaration. Program: Various, Justice Canada |
Starting points:
Performance Indicators:
Targets:
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Ambition 10.2: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced; Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard. |
Initiatives advancing Canada’s implementation of SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities
The following initiatives demonstrate how Justice Canada programming supports the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, supplementing the information outlined above.
| Planned Initiatives | Associated Domestics Targets or Ambitions and/or Global Targets |
|---|---|
| Impact of Race and Culture Assessments (IRCAs) An IRCA component of criminal legal aid will align with Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy while responding to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination’s concluding observations, which urge Canada to address the issue of overrepresentation of Blacks and other racialized Canadian groups in the justice system. |
10.2 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced; |
| To contribute to reducing inequality in Canada and to address the diverse needs of different groups of people in order to help foster fair outcomes, the Department of Justice integrates Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA Plus) considerations in areas including policies, legislation, programs and other initiatives. This helps foster greater gender equality, diversity and inclusive outcomes that are responsive to the needs of diverse groups. |
10.2 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced. 10.3 Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard. |
Goal 12: Reduce Waste and Transition to Zero-Emission Vehicles
FSDS Context: The Government of Canada has committed to reduce plastic pollution and waste, with an approach that works at each stage of the plastics life cycle, and follows the waste management hierarchy. This Goal's focus on reducing waste and transitioning to zero-emission vehicles directly supports SDG Global Indicator Framework targets:
- 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse.
- 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities
Target theme: Federal Leadership on Responsible Consumption.
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Decal for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Target: By 2030, the Government of Canada will divert from landfill at least 75% by weight of non-hazardous operational waste (All Ministers).
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximize diversion of waste from landfill | Partner with Building Property Managers, Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions (BGIS), in collaboration with Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) on measures that will enable Justice Canada to improve waste diversion rates, notably on an initiative to expand central recycling stations in the National Capital Region (NCR) – specifically St. Andrews Tower (SAT) and the East Memorial Building (EMB) – to include composting and interactive waste sorting technology. Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
Starting Point:
Performance Indicators:
Targets:
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Collaborating with BGIS and PSPC to set up mechanisms on properties leased to Justice Canada to facilitate waste diversion will help to reduce landfill gas and transport hauling emissions, as well as emissions for the extraction and production of virgin materials. Ambition 12.3: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse. |
Target: By 2030, the Government of Canada will divert from landfill at least 90% by weight of all construction and demolition waste (All Ministers).
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximize diversion of waste from landfillMinimize embodied carbon and the use of harmful materials in construction and renovation | Partner with PSPC/or BGIS to implement a second LEED-certified (or equivalent) fit-up project. Such projects require the use of low embodied carbon materials. Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
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Partnering with PSPC on a LEED-certified pilot fit-up project helps Justice Canada to encourage industry to adopt low carbon extraction, production and disposal practices. This will reduce indirect emissions (i.e. Scope 3 emissions) and other harmful environmental impacts. Ambition 12.3: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse. Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities |
Target: The Government of Canada’s procurement of goods and services will be net-zero emissions by 2050, to aid the transition to a net-zero, circular economy (All Ministers).
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strengthen green procurement criteriaDepartments will use environmental criteria to reduce the environmental impact and ensure best value in government procurement decisions | Explore measures to increase awareness and uptake of environmental considerations in procurement activities Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
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Exploring measures to increase green procurement allows Justice Canada to establish the tools and processes that will successfully encourage clients to incorporate environmental considerations into purchasing decisions and motivate suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver, and their supply chains. Ambition 12.2: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities |
| Other – Supports the GoalSupport for green procurement will be strengthened, including guidance, tools and training for public service employees | Continue to ensure decision makers, material management and specialists in procurement have the necessary training and awareness to support green procurement Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
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Green procurement incorporates environmental considerations into purchasing decisions and is expected to motivate suppliers to green their goods, services and supply chain. Ensuring that procurement and materiel management specialists have the necessary training to provide effective guidance and direction to clients and suppliers. 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities |
| Other – Supports the Goal | Develop a compendium of tools and guidance on green procurement for Justice Canada administrative professionals, and other employees responsible to arrange for the procurement of goods and services Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
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Justice Canada recognizes that every purchase has a social, economic and environmental impact. The development of a compendium of training, tools and information on green procurement regulations, tools and best practices will support Justice Canada in working towards our environmental targets on sustainable procurement in a number of ways. First, by supporting improved knowledge and understanding, the compendium can help stakeholders better understand the importance of implementing environmental considerations into procurement decisions, as well as how to identify and select sustainable products and services. Second, by encouraging use of green procurement practices, the compendium can help to reduce the environmental impact of JUS’ purchasing decisions, including on carbon emissions, water usage and waste. Ambition 12.2: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities |
Implementation strategies supporting the goal
This section is for implementation strategies that support the goal “Reduce waste and transition to zero-emission vehicles” but not a specific FSDS target.
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Other – supports the goal | Explore options for implementing procedures and technologies to decrease the environmental impact of printer usage at Justice Canada.* *Note: This action is consistent with Statistics Canada’s “Measurement, Controls and Monitoring” (Table 2e) listing of clean technologies in its detailed taxonomy. Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
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Procedures and technologies to manage printers and printing efficiently and in accordance with environmental best practices are expected to raise awareness about environmental considerations and costs; and decrease usage and waste of resources (ink, paper, etc.) and electricity. The desired outcome and end-state vision for the management of print services is to achieve a secure, standard print environment for Justice Canada that incorporates the latest technologies; improves end-user experience and productivity; delivers cost efficiencies; and reduces environmental impact. 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse. |
Goal 13: Take Action on Climate Change and its Impacts
FSDS Context: The effects of human-caused climate change are being felt across our country, and across the world. Canadians are seeing more extreme temperatures and precipitation as well as more frequent and severe wildfires, heatwaves, droughts and flooding. Canada is warming at two times the global rate, and this rate is even greater in the Canadian Arctic. Meanwhile, rising sea levels, along with less-visible effects such as increased acidity and reduced levels of oxygen in the oceans, are damaging ecosystems and industries such as fisheries. Effective and urgent action on climate change requires transitioning to a net-zero economy by reducing greenhouse gas and short-lived climate pollutant emissions.
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Decal for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action.
Increasing efforts to mitigate further emissions of greenhouse gases and short-lived climate pollutants, and adapting to changes in the climate, contribute to sustainable development and help to ensure that future generations will be able to provide for their needs. Taking action on climate change by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases and short-lived climate pollutants and building resilience directly supports SDG Global Indicator Framework targets:
- 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries
- 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning
- 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning
Target theme: Federal Leadership on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions and Climate Resilience.
Target: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon operations for facilities and conventional fleets by 2050 (All Ministers).
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government’s overall operations | Migrate applications from low efficiency legacy data centres to energy-efficient solutions (e.g. enterprise data centres, as well as to the Cloud) Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
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Justice Canada is taking steps to modernize its information technology (IT) infrastructure, which has experienced significant growth amidst the Department’s pandemic response. Migrating applications from legacy data centres to energy-efficient solutions, including secure enterprise data centres and to the cloud can help promote the consolidation of data centre operations – resulting in a reduced need to invest in physical hardware and infrastructure, and an associated reduction in energy and resources needed to support these operations. Cloud computing can be up to 98% more carbon efficient than legacy data centres1. Ambition 13.1: Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions Target 13.1: By 2030, reduce Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 45%, relative to 2005 emission levels. By 2050, achieve economy-wide net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries. |
| Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government’s overall operations | Explore options for implementing procedures and technologies to decrease the environmental impact of Justice Canada’s operations though the implementation of the Digital Work Hub Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
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Building on the progress made over the course of the pandemic, Justice Canada is working to optimize the hybrid workplace by integrating modern collaboration digital solutions and infrastructureto support the continued success of the Department and its workforce. The adoption of secure digital platforms that facilitate electronic exchange of documents and online collaboration can help reduce the need for printing physical copies and can reduce travel, which in turn reduces the amount of paper consumed and carbon emissions released into the atmosphere. Ambition 13.1: Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions Target 13.1: By 2030, reduce Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 45%, relative to 2005 emission levels. By 2050, achieve economy-wide net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. |
Target: The Government of Canada will transition to climate resilient operations by 2050 (All Ministers).
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs |
|---|---|---|---|
Reduce risks posed by climate change to federal assets, services and operationsIncrease training and support on assessing climate change impacts, undertaking climate change risk assessments and developing adaptation actions to public service employees, and facilitate sharing of best practices and lessons learned Departments have developed measures to reduce climate change risks to assets, services and operations |
Review emergency management and business continuity planning material and processes annually to ensure climate change risks and impacts are appropriately addressed Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
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Factoring climate variability and change into emergency management and business continuity planning is one of the most important ways Justice Canada can ensure it remains well-prepared to address the impact of a changing climate on its capacity to operate and deliver on its critical services, among which is the provision of legal services to all clients. Training is provided to every BCM Coordinator when they take on the role. It includes an overview of responsibilities, as well as instructions on how to develop and deliver BCM exercises within their areas of responsibility. Both segments include information on the risks and impacts from climate change. Ambition 13.2; 13.3: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of Climate change 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries; 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning; 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning. |
Goal 16: Promote a Fair and Accessible Justice System, Enforce Environmental Laws, and Manage Impacts
FSDS Context: The Government of Canada supports transparent, accountable and inclusive institutions, both domestically and internationally. It does this through legislation and regulatory requirements that contribute to the rule of law, a fair and accessible justice system, evidence-based decision making, and strong enforcement, reporting, and oversight.
This Goal focuses on the essential role of strong institutions in solving the interconnected challenges of sustainable development—especially the rule of law, a fair and accessible justice system, effectively and impartially enforcing environmental laws, and managing the impacts of proposed development projects. This perspective was drawn from the SDG Global Indicator Framework targets:
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Decal for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
- 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all
- 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels
- 16.b: Promote and enforce non-discriminatory laws and policies for sustainable development
Target theme: A Fair and Accessible Justice System and the Rule of Law.
Target: By 2030, at least 70% of Canadians think the criminal justice system is both fair and accessible to all people (Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada).
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Take action to improve fairness in law enforcement and the criminal justice system | Work to increase public confidence in the fairness and accessibility of the Canadian criminal justice system by providing access to free training for criminal justice professionals and victim service workers on victim-related topics and making free, independent legal advice and independent legal representation available to victims of sexual assault and intimate partner violence Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Victims of Crime and Justice System Partnerships |
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The Policy Centre for Victim Issues (PCVI) at the Department of Justice Canada leads the Federal Victims Strategy, which is a horizontal initiative with the objectives of giving victims a greater voice in the criminal justice system and enhancing access to justice for victims of crime. PCVI works closely with other federal government departments and agencies and with provincial and territorial governments. By providing information, training and funding to criminal justice professionals and victim service workers, the Department supports greater access to resources, continuous learning, and enables the provision of high-quality services by criminal justice professionals and victim service workers to victims of crime across the country. Ultimately, this can lead to more effective and integrated approaches to increasing awareness about the evolving needs of victims of crime and effective approaches to respond to those needs. Through these activities, the Department continues its work to provide legal education and information about the role of victims in the criminal justice system and address challenges related to their experiences. In turn, these initiatives support the Department’s goal of increasing public confidence in the fairness and accessibility of the criminal justice system. Ambition 5.1: Eliminate gender-based violence and harassment; Target 5.1: Fewer women are victims of intimate partner violence and sexual assault Ambition 16.5, 16.6: Canadians have equal access to justice; Ambition 16.7: Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions; Ambition 17.1 (SDG 17): Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs; 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all; Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels. |
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| Take action to improve fairness in law enforcement and the criminal justice system | Support Community Justice Centre pilots to bring together justice, health, employment, education and social services to collectively address the root causes of crime, break the cycle of offending and improve public safety and community well-being. Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Justice System Partnerships |
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Community Justice Centres (CJCs) are community driven models that integrate justice processes with health and social services to provide a coordinated approach to addressing the root causes of crime, break the cycle of offending, and improve public safety and community well being. As CJCs are driven by the needs of individual communities, they have the ability to directly address the unique and chronic justice system challenges faced by each community. Through the integration of culturally appropriate services, CJCs can help decrease the overrepresentation of Indigenous people and Black Canadians in the criminal justice system, and provide solutions to systemic issues. Justice Canada will provide financial support for CJC pilots in three provinces, and community engagement in other jurisdictions to identify opportunities for the expansion of the CJC concept across the country. Through these activities, the Department is taking action to test new approaches to strengthen the justice system and address the root causes of crime. This funding supports the following Departmental Results:
Canadian Indicator Framework Ambition 10.2.1: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced. Ambition 16.5, 16.6: Canadian have equal access to justice. UN Global Indicator Framework Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard. Target 16.3:Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all. 16.b: Promote and enforce non-discriminatory laws and policies for sustainable development. |
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| Take action to improve fairness in law enforcement and the criminal justice system | Help to bring systemic change to address the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in Canada’s criminal justice system by funding projects informed by Gladue Principles Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Indigenous Justice |
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Gladue Principles recognize the need to address systemic racism and the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system, consider the unique systemic or background factors which may have played a part in bringing an individual in contact with the law in criminal justice decision-making; and use alternative measures wherever reasonable, including culturally-appropriate restorative justice processes. Justice Canada supports this work by providing funding for projects informed by Gladue Principles that either:
Through these measures, among others, the Department is taking direct action to address inequities and the overrepresentation of Indigenous persons as victims and accused in the criminal justice system. Ambition 10: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced; Ambition 16.5, 16.6: Canadians have equal access to justice; Ambition 17.1 (SDG 17): Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs; Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard; Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels |
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| Take action to improve fairness in law enforcement and the criminal justice system | Advance legal literacy and empowerment by regularly updating Charterpedia Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Advisory services |
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As part of Justice Canada’s commitment to Canada’s Fifth National Action Plan on Open Government, Justice Canada has committed to regularly updating Charterpedia. Charterpedia promotes legal literacy and empowerment by providing legal information about the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). Charterpedia contains information about the purpose of each section of the Charter, the analysis or test developed through case law in respect of the section, and examines key considerations related to it. By having some of Canada’s leading Charter experts share information with a broad public audience about Charter rights and developments in the caselaw, Justice Canada provides an important source of information to Canadians and demonstrates our commitment to greater openness and transparency. In this way, Charterpedia contributes to the accessibility of Canada’s legal system and fosters a greater level of public understanding of and engagement with Charter rights. Ambition 16.7: Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions; Ambition 17.1 (SDG 17): Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs; Indicator 17.1.1: Number of open datasets published by the Government of Canada 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all; Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements; Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels. |
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| Other – Supports the goal | Support the implementation of Canada’s Open Justice commitment, as included in the 2022-2024 National Action Plan on Open Government Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Legal Policies, Laws and Governance; Internal Services |
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In 2022, Justice Canada committed to the implementation of Canada’s Open Justice Commitment, as included in the 2022-2024 National Action Plan on Open Government. JUS will support implementation of this commitment through the sharing of data collection, research and promising practices; initiatives to advance legal literacy; and, ongoing partnerships and collaboration. Canada’s 2022-2024 National Action Plan on Open Government includes a Justice commitment. The commitment highlights a series of initiatives aimed at helping people and organizations across the country access the data, information and services they need to identify and effectively resolve their legal problems. Through the Open Government initiative, Justice Canada commits to collect and share data, including disaggregated data, advance legal literacy, identify and share promising practices, and foster partnerships and collaboration. These initiatives reflect our commitment to advancing a people-centered approach to justice, as made at the 2021 Summit for Democracy, to better understand and meet the legal needs of the people of Canada. Finally, the Open Justice initiative reflects our commitment to greater transparency, accountability and access to information, which in turn can help to strengthen Canadians’ confidence in the justice system and improve access to justice. Ambition 16.5, 16.6: Canadians have equal access to justice; Ambition 16.7: Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions; Ambition 17.1: Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs; Indicator 17.1.1:Number of open datasets published by the Government of Canada 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all; Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements; Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels. |
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Goal 17: Strengthen Partnerships to Promote Global Action on Sustainable Development
FSDS Context: Diverse and inclusive partnerships are required at the local, regional, national and global levels to achieve the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals. This Goal's focus on strengthening partnerships to promote global action on sustainable development directly supports SDG Global Indicator Framework targets:
- 17.3: Mobilize additional financial resources for developing countries from multiple sources
- 17.4: Assist developing countries in attaining long-term debt sustainability through coordinated policies aimed at fostering debt financing, debt relief and debt restructuring, as appropriate, and address the external debt of highly indebted poor countries to reduce debt distress
- 17.10: Promote a universal, rules-based, open, non-discriminatory and equitable multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organization, including through the conclusion of negotiations under its Doha Development Agenda
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Decal for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Open data is an important mechanism for enhancing transparency, and ensuring evidence-based dialogue and collaboration between governments and civil society. In Canada, open data helps foster multi-stakeholder collaboration to better understand and contribute to solving public challenges. To promote inclusive partnerships and collaboration within Canada, the Government of Canada maintains the Open Government Portal as a single point of entry for open data and information published by federal organizations, as well as from some provinces and territories. Open data also provides critical information to help achieve the SDGs and to measure progress in meeting them. These insights can inform priorities and help determine the most effective paths for driving innovation and action to resolve issues. The quality and relevance of available open datasets is of particular importance for informed decision making.
Implementation strategies supporting the goal
This section is for implementation strategies that support the goal “ Strengthen partnerships to promote global action on sustainable development” but not a specific FSDS target.
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target |
How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advance open data initiatives | Expand Justice Canada open data initiatives and make more data available digitally – notably by aligning our approaches with international best practices and publishing new datasets and information assets on the Open Government Portal Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur: Internal Services |
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Canada has been a member of the international Open Government Partnership (OGP) since 2012. The OGP brings together national and sub-national governments from around the world who are committed to the open government principles of transparency, accountability and participation. Justice Canada supports maximizing the release of non-sensitive data and information. In doing so, we proactively disclose data and information to the public that reflects our mandate to support the dual roles of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. Justice-related research and data plays an important role in the work that we do. Justice Canada’s research and data initiatives help support our work in developing policies, programs and legislation grounded in evidence. In the spirit of openness and transparency, the Department makes research reports and other informational products publicly available. Ambition 16.5, 16.6: Canadians have equal access to justice; Ambition 16.7: Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions; Ambition 17.1: Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs; Indicator: 17.1.1: Number of open datasets published by the Government of Canada. Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all; Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels; Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements. |
Section 5 - Integrating Sustainable Development
Framework for Sustainable Development
Justice Canada brings together all work done in the Department related to sustainable development under a single framework, known as the Sustainable Development Program. (see Annex A)
This framework was designed with the explicit mandate to embed an integrated approach to sustainable development at Justice Canada. Based on this approach, initiatives and activities are categorized, irrespective of their operational or public policy origins, as:
- Green Workplace – Activities and initiatives related to greening government operations and practices;
- Education and Outreach – Events, training and activities aimed at individual awareness and capacity building (includes Green Teams); and
- Sustainable Development Public Policy – Activities and initiatives aimed at advancing public policy and program objectives (including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals).
Achieving Justice Canada’s Sustainable Development Vision
Justice Canada’s Sustainable Development Program enables the Department to connect activities across functional and business lines to support broader sustainable development objectives, in addition to meeting its obligations toward the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy and the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
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A girl waters leafy green plants in the garden.
In fact, a number of initiatives beyond those outlined in section 4 will make an important contribution to the Department’s vision for sustainable development over the next three years. The Sustainable Development Steering Committee (SDSC) will be regularly advised on the progress of these initiatives as part of Justice Canada’s Sustainable Development Program.
Alternative and Flexible Working Arrangements
This initiative to promote continued adoption and integration of alternative and flexible work arrangements across Justice Canada contributes to both the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) and the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Broader social, economic and technological trends – encompassing the rise of IT-based work platforms, digital disruption and global connectivity, among other developments – are redefining the work landscape, including that of the federal government.
Justice Canada offers alternative and flexible working arrangements including telework, compressed work weeks, flexible work hours, part-time, leave with income averaging and job-sharing.
Why does it matter?
In appropriate circumstances, alternative and flexible work arrangements enable employees to work safely and effectively in remote locations and/or on non-standard schedules. In this way, it can facilitate efforts to create meaningful work and economic growth (SDG 8) and reduce inequalities (SDG 10) by providing psychologically safer work arrangements for all employees, in particular equity groups, and by opening new opportunities to members of diverse communities (e.g., equity groups, situated outside of urban centres).
Promoting adoption and integration of alternative and flexible work arrangements across Justice Canada thus contributes to a culture of inclusiveness that is founded on equity and values diversity to eliminate all forms of intersectional discrimination, racism and to address systemic barriers (as described in the Department’s Employment Equity Plan 2022-2025); and, moreover, can also provide a competitive edge in attracting and retaining employees.
Work flexibility can also contribute to the reduction of the quantity of pollutants released into the air as a result of employees not commuting to a physical office each day, one of the goals of the FSDS as well as a contribution to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
What will it look like?
Advancing work flexibility depends on shaping workplace conditions and culture in ways that promote take up and successful engagement across the Department. This means that the right physical, psychological, IT, digital, technological, operational and cultural conditions need to be in place in order for sustainable development benefits to be fully realized. Flexible work may require suitable infrastructure and operational support.
As part of its efforts to integrate SD into its policies, operations, programs and culture, over the next four years Justice Canada will:
- Identify activities and initiatives that will be pursued to continue to promote adoption and integration of flexible work arrangements,
- Monitor the status of activities and initiatives supporting flexible work arrangements with respect to their approved plans; and,
- Apply intersectional GBA Plus to ensure initiatives consider and reflect the diverse needs of different groups of people.
Building a Culture of Sustainable Practices
This initiative involves changing long-standing behaviours around the use of plastics – particularly single-use plastics and packaging waste – in meetings, events and operations. While this initiative is expected to support the FSDS action to “Eliminate the unnecessary use of single-use plastics in government operations, events and meetings and promote the procurement of sustainable plastic products and reduction of plastic packaging waste”, its initial focus is on creating the environmental conditions for success.
Why does it matter?
Everyday activities and operations – printing documents, purchasing office supplies, and other ordinary decisions – have direct environmental consequences. However, these choices also create and reinforce the habits, assumptions and expectations that shape workplace culture. To achieve its sustainable development vision, Justice Canada must invest in creating a culture of sustainable practices: one in which the physical, operational and social environment all work together to encourage employees at all levels to make sustainable choices.
What will it look like?
Culture change is a long-term initiative, and there are no short-cuts to success. At the same time, Justice Canada recognizes the significance of culture in achieving its sustainable development vision.
Over the next four years, the Department will:
- Seek senior management commitment to engage in sustainable practices in their sectors/portfolios, with a focus on eliminating use of single-use plastics in their operations, events and meetings;
- Provide concrete guidance to sectors/portfolios on holding green events and meetings; and
- Explore other measures that could make it more practical for Justice employees and decision makers to make sustainable choices.
Public Transit Card Initiative
This initiative was implemented through the Justice Sustainable Development Strategy (JSDS) 2020-23. Between 2020 and 2023, the “Presto Card” project was not active since the majority of the employees were working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the return to the workplace, Justice Canada will once again promote the use of the Ottawa-based “Presto Card” to urge employees to use the public transit passes for work-related travel in the Ottawa area. Not only was the pilot project well-received by employees, it has proven to be of interest to other departments.
If the Ottawa re-implementation is successful, Justice Canada will consider expanding the pilot project in certain key regions such as Edmonton, Gatineau and Montreal.
Why does it matter?
Actions that incent green travel help to lower the environmental footprint of government operations, and can help to improve the air quality of the areas in which government operates. Justice Canada’s public transit card project has already proven successful in Ottawa prior to the pandemic, and its re-implementation in Ottawa and potential expansion of this initiative to other urban areas across the country is expected to enhance the environmental benefits accordingly.
What will it look like?
The Ottawa-based “Presto Card” (Public Transit) Pilot Project was completed before the pandemic. However, as employees worked remotely for the past three years, this project will have to be implemented again in Ottawa.
Over the next four years, a national strategy will be developed to potentially expand this project to regional offices. The details and timing will be determined in consultation with Ottawa and regional offices. Please note that despite the return to the workplace, an overall decrease in travel has been observed compared to pre-pandemic levels as many meetings are now held virtually instead of in person. As a result, this initiative may yield less significant results than when it was initially launched.
Modernizing the Way We Work with the Courts
This initiative explores options for the Department to work with the Courts, Law Societies and the private bar to implement procedures and technologies in a more environmentally-conscious manner, conforming with operations and rules determined by the Courts.
Why does it matter?
Working with the Courts and opposing parties to leverage clean virtual conferencing platforms and to digitize court documents will help to lower the environmental impact of government operations. The contribution this initiative provides to sustainable operations includes paper reduction, energy efficiency and where possible – a reduction in travel, lowering our carbon footprint.
What will it look like?
The limitations imposed by the need for physical distancing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic have encouraged the Courts to adapt and modernize by conducting hearings remotely and experimenting with video conferencing technologies. Virtual proceedings may have differential impacts depending on the identity factors of people and their needs. The Action Committee on Court Operations developed virtual hearings: orienting principles to assist courts and justice stakeholders as they consider the future use of virtual hearings. As of 2023, most courts have returned to holding in person hearings although some short duration hearings are still being held virtually. At the same time, many electronic document management practices are continuing. Over the next four years, the Department, in collaboration with the Courts, will work to extend its use of these technologies. For example:
- E-commissioning affidavits on consent and with permission from the courts;
- Filing and serving materials electronically instead of by paper;
- Leverage alternate mechanisms, where appropriate, where counsel can appear by video or telephone (e.g. case management conferences and largely procedural hearings; uncontested motions)
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)
Justice Canada will continue to ensure that its decision-making process includes consideration of FSDS goals and targets through its SEA process. An SEA for a policy, plan or program proposal includes an analysis of the impacts of the given proposal on the environment, including on relevant FSDS goals and targets.
Public statements on the results of Justice Canada’s assessments are made when an initiative has undergone a detailed SEA. The purpose of the public statement is to demonstrate that the environmental effects, including the impacts on achieving the FSDS goals and targets, of the approved policy, plan or program have been considered during proposal development and decision making. (Note: due to the nature of Justice Canada’s policies and programs, no initiatives have required a detailed SEA to date; however here is the link to the Department’s general SEA site.)
Justice has established a single-window hub for SEA guidance and tools to facilitate early reflection on environmental considerations in the development of advice for Ministers and/or Cabinet. The SEA questionnaire and guidelines provide a customized, step-by-step procedure that enables Justice Canada employees not only to complete the SEA preliminary scan and detailed SEA (if required), but understand the context and rationale underpinning this activity.
Annex A: Department of Justice Sustainable Development Framework
Text version
Infographic depicts the relationship between the drivers, oversight, and role of Justice Canada's Sustainable Development Program.
Left to right :
- (1) The Federal Sustainable Development Act (FSDA) directs the development of the (2) Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS).
- (3) The Justice Sustainable Development Strategy guides the Department of Justice Sustainable Development Program.
- (4) United Nations Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) influences the development of the (5) Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy.
- (6) Justice Canada contributes to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy, of which guides the direction of the activities set out by the Justice Canada Sustainable Development Program.
- (7) The Sustainable Development Steering Committee (SDSC) oversees the activities of the Justice Canada Sustainable Development Program.
Justice Canada's Sustainable Development Program is comprised of three core pillars:
- Green Workplace - includes activities that support Greening Government Operations; GCWorkplace; Green Procurement; Energy Reduction; Green Transportation; Digital Technology.
- Education and Outreach - includes events and initiatives, including blog posts, JusInfo articles, awareness campaigns, etc.); Introduction to SD Training; Health and wellness activities; and regional and National Capital Region (NCR) Green Team Activities
- Sustainable Development Public Policy - includes the implementation of Bill C-57 and C-69; Contributes to Federal Sustainable Development Strategy and the UN Sustainable Development Goals: 5, 10, 12, 13, 16 and 17; Strategic Environmental Assessment; Federal Adaptation Policy Framework.
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