2019-2020 Gender-based analysis plus (GBA+)

GBA+ considerations are discussed and application is determined by the Veterans Review and Appeal Board’s (VRAB, the Board) executive team. The Board has also established a Diversity and Inclusion Committee to promote the values and practices of a diverse and inclusive workplace.

In 2019-20, the Board continued to allocate temporary resources to develop its capacity in GBA+ as required. In 2020-21, the Board will appoint a GBA+ champion representative to support the implementation and application of GBA+.

GBA+ training for staff is key to successful integration of GBA+ throughout the Board. During the reporting period, the Board continued to encourage staff to complete the Women and Gender Equality Canada online GBA+ course, and take part in the GBA+ Awareness Week activities hosted by Veterans Affairs Canada. The Board also continued to participate in the VAC GBA+ network which has the goal of raising awareness and disseminating tools and best practices.

In 2019-20, the Board assessed its Review and Appeal program to align with the policy direction to modernize the Government of Canada’s sex and gender information practices. As a result, potential opportunities for change were identified. Further analysis of these opportunities will be conducted in fiscal year 2020-21.

As the organization identifies GBA+ focal points in the upcoming fiscal year, it will develop measures to successfully implement GBA+ considerations in the Board’s operations. The level of analysis and monitoring will also become more robust as we work to increase our reporting capacity to ensure that gender and diversity are considered within its program, policies and in its delivery.