Bob Rae has been appointed chairperson of the Board of Governors of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), a Canadian federal Crown corporation that funds research and innovation aimed at sustainable development. The appointment was announced on 2 November by Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development). The announcement did not state when Rae’s tenure begins or how long it will last.
Rae recently served as Canada’s ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations. His earlier public career includes serving as premier of Ontario and interim leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. The government announcement described his experience in diplomacy, public service and politics as relevant to the chairperson role. It also noted his work on humanitarian, development and global governance issues during his diplomatic service.
The chairmanship places Rae at the head of the board responsible for strategic direction, stewardship and oversight of IDRC. The board may have up to 14 governors. IDRC says its chairperson reports to the Minister of Foreign Affairs through the Secretary of State (International Development). The organisation was established by an Act of Parliament in 1970 and operates as part of Canada’s foreign affairs and development effort.
Research and development mandate
IDRC’s work centres on research in and alongside developing regions. It funds research, shares knowledge with researchers and policymakers, and supports alliances intended to help research findings be used. Its stated purpose is to contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive world. The organisation’s statutory mandate covers research into challenges facing developing regions and the use and adaptation of scientific, technical and other knowledge to support their economic and social advancement.
That remit gives the board an oversight role across a broad international portfolio rather than responsibility for a single programme. Strategic direction and stewardship concern how the corporation pursues its mandate and manages its work; the announcement does not identify a new policy, funding allocation or change to individual projects as part of Rae’s appointment. It likewise provides no financial terms or other conditions attached to the chairmanship.
Leadership transition
Rae’s recent posting at the United Nations involved Canada’s representation in a multilateral setting. The government announcement linked that experience with cooperation on humanitarian and development matters, while describing evidence-based policymaking as consistent with IDRC’s mission. These are stated reasons for the appointment, not a detailed account of priorities Rae will pursue as chair.
The announcement included welcomes from Sarai and IDRC president Julie Delahanty, who referred to Rae’s leadership and international experience. Neither statement sets out a work plan, board changes or a timetable for future decisions. With no start date specified, it is not possible to say from the public announcement when Rae will formally take up the role.
The appointment is therefore a leadership change at an institution whose core function remains support for research and innovation connected to sustainable development. Its board’s remit encompasses strategic guidance and oversight, while the corporation’s programmes work with researchers and partners in developing countries and regions. Further information would be needed to establish the practical priorities, schedule or operational effects of Rae’s chairmanship.
