OTTAWA, May 18, 2005 - The Government of Canada is about to complete the final stages leading to Canada acceding to the two Protocols of the UNESCO Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, also known as the Hague Convention. This was announced today by Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pierre Pettigrew, Minister of National Defence Bill Graham and Minister of Justice Irwin Cotler. By acceding to these Protocols, Canada is reiterating its commitment to international peace and security. It also sends a clear message to those who may seek refuge after taking part in the looting of heritage property during a conflict."We strongly support the underlying principle of the Convention that damage to a nation's cultural property diminishes the cultural heritage of all nations," said Minister Frulla. "Our accession to the two Protocols will confirm our commitment to international cooperation in the interest of protecting cultural heritage around the world.""Canada's accession to these important international instruments demonstrates our commitment to the rule of law as the basis for the conduct of states and military forces, including in times of conflict," said Minister Pettigrew. "The framework of cooperation provided by the Protocols to the Hague Convention provides a vital underpinning for the protection of cultural heritage."The Hague Convention and its two Protocols reflect Canadian principles surrounding the protection of cultural property in times of war."Canada's active role in international security means our forces are continually in touch with diverse cultures and communities," said Minister Graham. "Canada's commitment to the Hague Convention and our intention to join the Protocols reaffirms the Canadian Forces' long-standing commitment to protect cultural property while on operations around the world.""Acceding to the Protocols to the Hague Convention is another example of Canada's unwavering support for international humanitarian law," said Minister Cotler. "The Protocols will strengthen even further Canada's ability to act against crimes committed during armed conflict. The adoption of the Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Act in 2000, as well as the support provided to the War Crimes Program, has helped Canada play an important role in promoting international justice."In order to accede to the two Protocols, the Government must bring forward amendments to the Criminal Code and the Cultural Property Export and Import Act. Such amendments would allow Canada to prosecute Canadians abroad for acts of theft, vandalism, arson, or the illicit exportation of cultural property that is protected by the Convention and its Protocols. The Ministers made this announcement on the occasion of International Museum Day, which is celebrated every year around the world on May 18. This year, the theme for the Day is "Museums Bridging Cultures."Information:Jean-Philippe CôtéDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women(819) 997-7788Myriam BrochuChief, Media RelationsCanadian Heritage(819) 997-9314 Denise Rudnicki Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Justice (613) 992-4621Media Relations OfficeDepartment of Justice (613) 957-4207 Sébastien ThébergeDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Foreign Affairs(613) 995-1851Media Relations OfficeForeign Affairs Canada(613) 995-1874www.international.gc.caRenée FiliatraultDirector of Communications Office of the Minister of National Defence(613) 996-3100 National Defence Media Liaison Office(613) 996-2353/2354
