Establish an internal working group to promote open government at Veterans Affairs Canada (CA0085)

1.7 Establish an internal working group at VAC to identify and act on opportunities to promote open government at VAC

Note: This commitment is part of a commitment cluster in the original action plan and has been disaggregated by the OGP Support Unit. See the action plan for details.

Issue to be addressed
Although public input is increasingly valued, many Canadians still face barriers to meaningful participation in government decision-making. Marginalized communities, youth and underrepresented groups often lack access to platforms where their voices are heard and respected. This calls for inclusive, accessible and responsive engagement mechanisms that go beyond token consultation.

Governments must create diverse and equitable opportunities for dialogue, both online and in person, that empower individuals to shape policies, programs and services. Genuine engagement means listening and acting on public input to produce tangible outcomes that reflect the interests, needs and rights of all Canadians.

Problem statement
Persistent barriers keep many Canadians, especially youth and newcomers, and people in marginalized and underrepresented groups, from participating meaningfully in government decision-making. Existing engagement efforts are often not inclusive, accessible or impactful, which results in public input either being overlooked or ineffective. Without platforms and dedicated efforts that foster genuine dialogue and integrate diverse perspectives, government risks being disconnected from the real needs, and priorities of the people they serve.

Commitment
The Government of Canada commits to fostering inclusive, equitable and effective public engagement that removes barriers to participation in government decision-making. By developing and promoting diverse, accessible platforms for public input, the government will ensure that meaningful dialogue shapes policies, programs and services. This commitment reflects our focus on collaboration, transparency and responsiveness, and on making sure policies, programs and services reflect the lived experiences, needs and rights of all Canadians.

Table: What will we do? | How will we know we succeeded? | What is our deadline? | Department

1.7 Establish an internal working group at VAC to identify and act on opportunities to promote open government at VAC
- 1.7.1. Invite branches to think about their own holdings and consider what could be made available through the Open Government Portal in an accessible format. (March 2029, VAC)
- 1.7.2. Encourage branches to consider whether the work they are doing will include opportunities to promote accountability and citizen engagement. (March 2029, VAC)
- 1.7.3. Ensure that twice annually, open government awareness activities are highlighted (once during Open Government Week and once during "Right to Know" week), with the goal of raising awareness at VAC. Success would be measured through participatory activities like employee knowledge challenges. (Annually, by March 31—to be reported as part of VAC's access to information and privacy annual reports, VAC)