CANADA ELECTED TO UN COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS

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May 4, 2004 No. 67 Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham today welcomed the election of Canada to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights (UNCHR), for the 2005-2007 term. "The promotion and protection of human rights is a fundamental part of Canadian foreign and domestic policies," said Minister Graham. "The Commission remains the pre-eminent intergovernmental body charged with promoting these rights, and we know that its effectiveness must be improved in order for it to fulfill its intended function. Our election to the Commission will allow us to maintain our prominent role in advancing international human rights issues." The election took place today at the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the UN in New York. Canada was one of four candidates for the three seats available for the Western European and Others Group. Canada was elected on the first ballot with 38 votes, with a total of 54 ECOSOC member countries eligible to vote. The other successful candidates were Finland and France. Canada has been a member of the Commission for 24 of the last 28 years. Although not a member for this past term (2003-2005), Canada was involved in negotiations on all substantive matters and cosponsored more than 30 resolutions. Canada also led on several resolutions, including texts on freedom of expression, aboriginal issues, violence against women and impunity. The UNCHR is the UN body responsible for overseeing international human rights standards: civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the protection of minorities and the prevention of all forms of discrimination. The UNCHR also mandates independent experts to monitor and report on situations in specific countries that have been placed on its agenda. - 30 - For further information, media representatives may contact: Isabelle Savard Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs (613) 995-1851 Media Relations Office Foreign Affairs Canada and International Trade Canada (613) 995-1874 http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

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2016-12-15

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CANADA ELECTED TO UN COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS

News Release

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