Last week’s budget made news back in Canada mostly for what it did not do. It did not set off any fireworks or launch any nation-building exercises. Judging by pundit and general reactions, it is considered a safe, economically responsible document focused on domestic issues. In international development circles, however, the document unveiled by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty and his new shoes caused an earthquake.

After close to 50 years, CIDA will be folded into the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. I have given the budget document a brief read but I am waiting for the spending and estimates document, which is forthcoming. That is where the true face of CIDA will be revealed. It will also be interesting to see how Cuso fares (it is funded by CIDA).

Reaction to CIDA’s fate is mixed. Some argue that it is a travesty that will render Canada even more inward-looking and/or driven by economic development when it comes to international affairs. Others argue this is a good opportunity to re-examine Canada’s international role, to become more pragmatic and to reform the corrupt aspects of development. It is clearly too early to tell. But here are some articles that illustrate the range of reactions.

Why CIDA has to be brought back into the fold

CIDA: Why 45 years of co-operation was enough

CIDA move could be a big opportunity

Dark days at CIDA