A new joint initiative between Mongolia and Canada — the MERIT Project — was officially launched yesterday to strengthen the capacity and professionalism of Mongolia’s civil service.

The project, running from 2025 to 2030, aims to help develop an ethical, gender-responsive, citizen-oriented public administration that upholds human rights, accountability, and good governance.

Opening the ceremony, H.E. Steven Daoust, Ambassador of Canada to Mongolia, said the project reflects the shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law between the two nations.

“We believe this initiative will make a meaningful contribution to those common values,” he emphasized.

L. Tsedesuren, Chair of the Civil Service Council of Mongolia, noted that the project will introduce Canada’s best public-service practices and support the development of an ethical and professional state workforce.

“It will bring tangible progress in creating a value-based and trustworthy public service,” she said.

Jennifer Adams, Director of International Cooperation at Catalyst Plus, the project’s implementing partner, added:

“Our goal is not only performance — but integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights.

We will empower civil servants to deliver services that are more transparent, accessible, and citizen-focused.”

The project’s Steering Committee held its first meeting last week, approving its implementation framework and the 2026 annual work plan, before officially launching the initiative.

Source: Zuuniimedee newspaper 2025.10.24 № 201 (7698), Friday.