In a context where economic concerns dominate the news in Canada, what place do human rights hold in a society that aspires to be prosperous and in a so-called strong economy? Concerns are numerous: the cost of living is skyrocketing, rents are unaffordable, and groceries are increasingly expensive. We experience this daily. More and more people from the “middle class” around us are being affected by economic challenges.
On November 13, 2025, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled national development projects aimed at stimulating the economy and reducing our dependence on the U.S. market. Will these major initiatives help support all Canadians, including those who are more vulnerable and struggling to make ends meet?
Does respect for human rights foster economic growth? Or, on the contrary, is it economic growth that enables the implementation of equity measures, leading to better respect for human rights? The two are undoubtedly interconnected and interdependent.
According to the Atlantic Council (1), countries that have strengthened their democracy have seen their GDP per capita increase by 8.8% over the past twenty years.
But a society’s prosperity is not measured solely by economic growth. According to the Atlantic Council, the following six dimensions are included in the concept of prosperity:
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Income per capita generated by economic growth
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Access to health care;
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Access to education;
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Reduction of inequalities;
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The absence of discrimination against minorities and the expansion of opportunities; and
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Environmental quality.
How, then, can we ensure that all of these elements are taken into account when we speak about prosperity, economic development, and a just and equitable future?
There is obviously no easy answer, but several avenues for reflection emerge.
Promoting human rights in economic development is not only a moral imperative, but also a concrete lever for prosperity. When equity, inclusion, and the participation of all are integrated into economic projects, social cohesion, productivity, and creativity are strengthened. Businesses and initiatives that respect human rights, provide decent working conditions, and promote equal access to opportunities often see stronger employee engagement and better overall performance. In other words, supporting human rights and reducing discrimination does not hinder growth. On the contrary, it creates an environment where everyone can contribute fully, thereby fostering a more sustainable and truly prosperous economy.
A population that has access to education and health care, that can exercise freedom of expression and association, and that feels included, without discrimination, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, origin, or skin colour, will be more productive and contribute more to collective prosperity.
Respecting and promoting human rights can influence the quality of economic growth
So what can be done? Let us remind elected officials that human rights are neither a luxury nor a symbolic add-on. Human rights are moral obligations, but also legal ones, under the Quebec and Canadian Charters and our international commitments.
Let us not forget to analyze all our economic initiatives through a human rights lens. What does that mean? For example, it means:
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Reflecting on the inclusion of the most marginalized people in economic projects;
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Ensuring that entrepreneurs are aware of and comply with their obligations regarding equality and fair procurement practices that prevent worker exploitation and respect the environment;
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Questioning projects and ensuring that economic progress does not disadvantage or discriminate against women or 2SLGBTQI+ people;
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Implementing concrete measures so that projects benefit local communities.
It becomes clear, then, that promoting respect for human rights is not only the morally right thing to do, but is also essential to a healthy economy.
Jean-Sébastien Vallée, Director of Education and Communications, Equitas
Odette McCarthy, Executive Director, Equitas