In the midst of escalating tensions with India over the investigation into the killing of a Sikh activist, Global Affairs Canada called on India to waive diplomatic and consular immunities in order to fully cooperate with the inquiry. This move, while drawing criticism from community groups, underscores Canada's commitment to accountability and upholding democratic norms in its international engagements.

Global Affairs Canada, through a series of initiatives including the enactment of the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act and strengthened supply chain legislation, aims to combat forced labour and labour exploitation in global supply chains. The measures include stricter import prohibitions and enhanced due diligence in trade agreements, demonstrating a commitment to improving labour conditions and supply chain ethics.

In 2023, Global Affairs Canada published its comprehensive report on military exports and export controls that underscores a robust risk assessment framework and strict adherence to international treaties such as the Arms Trade Treaty. The department maintained presumptive denial policies for exports to high-risk countries including Russia, Belarus, and Türkiye, and imposed case‐by‐case reviews for exports to Israel (limiting them largely to non‐lethal items following conflict events). These measures are designed to ensure that Canadian military goods and technology are not diverted to fuel authoritarian aggression or human rights abuses, thus affirming its commitment to international peace, security, and the protection of civil society.

Global Affairs Canada has outlined a trade policy that emphasizes a strong, rules-based multilateral trading system, trade diversification, and inclusive trade aimed at ensuring that the benefits of commerce extend to marginalized communities. The policy framework supports ethical business practices and reinforces democratic norms at a time when global trade dynamics are critically scrutinized for authoritarian tendencies.

Global Affairs Canada updated its Export Control List and Export Permitting Regulations, formalizing enhanced enforcement cooperation with Five Eyes allies to curb the export of military, dual-use, and strategic goods. The regulatory modernization aims to improve clarity, compliance, and non‐proliferation commitments.