Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of International Development on Human Rights Day

December 10, 2020 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:

“This past year has presented some serious challenges, particularly when it comes to human rights. The pandemic has exposed inequalities and worsened the situation of many groups, including minorities. In some cases, pandemic-related measures have been used to restrict human rights.

“This year’s Human Rights Day is an occasion to affirm our conviction that human rights need to be at the centre of the COVID-19 recovery. Human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated. They are also about equality of opportunity. The people marginalized and most affected by COVID-19 must be heard. Only then will we build a more inclusive, just and equal post-pandemic world that will be safer and more peaceful for all.

“Today, Canada is announcing renewed support for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights [OHCHR] through a contribution of $5 million. This funding will strengthen the OHCHR’s ability to promote and protect the human rights of all people. Canada has been and will remain a consistent and vocal advocate for human rights at home and around the world.”