Reforming how a country’s democratic system works is no easy task, nor is the job of running a government department for the first time, but Maryam Monsef takes on both as Canada’s new Minister of Democratic Institutions.
In a year-end interview with the Epoch Times, the first-time Member of Parliament discussed her goals in her new job—one of which is to strengthen the respect Canadians have for the country’s democratic institutions.
“Being from a place where democracy is but a dream, I have a real respect and appreciation for the democratic institutions in this country that allow the transition of government without violence or interruption,” said Monsef.
“I have a great deal of respect for them and I intend to enhance people’s respect and appreciation for them.”
Monsef’s background is somewhat unique among cabinet ministers in the new government in Ottawa. She is Canada’s first Afghan-born MP, and at age 31, is also the youngest.
Monsef fled Afghanistan with her widowed mother and two sisters when she was just 11 years old. The family settled in Peterborough, Ont., where she later attended Trent University.
She has worked with several non-profits in the Peterborough area, including the Young Women Canada Association and the Ontario Public Interest Research Group. She was also co-founder of the Red Pashmina Campaign, a campaign to help Afghani women.
That background will come in useful for her current position, she said.
“I learned from them the importance of collaboration across cultures, generations, and across sectors. I think that is one of sets of experiences I am bringing to this portfolio that will require a great deal of engagement across the country.”
