Minister Garneau speaks with Michelle Bachelet, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

July 16, 2021 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today spoke with Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Minister Garneau reiterated Canada’s commitment to promoting and upholding human rights both in Canada and around the world. He also highlighted and thanked High Commissioner Bachelet for the invaluable work of the UN’s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in preventing violations and abuses, and ensuring monitoring of human rights globally. 

Minister Garneau and High Commissioner Bachelet discussed the recently concluded session of the UN Human Rights Council, as well as human rights situations of concern in Afghanistan, Belarus, Ethiopia, Haiti, Nicaragua, Sri Lanka, Syria, Venezuela, and Xinjiang (China).

Minister Garneau also emphasized Canada’s steadfast commitment to advancing reconciliation and upholding the rights of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. He conveyed that Canada remains committed to supporting Survivors, their families, communities and all those impacted by the racist and colonial legacy of residential schools.

The Minister and the High Commissioner agreed to continue working closely together to promote and protect human rights globally.