[6] Since 1994, Development and Peace has been a member of the Halifax Initiative, a coalition of Canadian non-governmental organizations for public interest work and education on international financial institutions.

[8][9] In April 2018, a conflict arose between Development and Peace and the Canadian Bishops, who accused the organisation of promoting or tolerating contraception.

This conflict lasted for several years and led to a review of whether the work of the more than 200 partner organisations of Development and Peace aligned with the Church's social and moral teachings.

After three years of investigations by the Canadian Bishops Conference, Development and Peace continued its work with all but 24 partner organisations.

The programs and projects are meant to support the poor as they improve their living conditions in a sustainable way and increase their participation in their country's development.