Canada supports a project aimed at protecting the human rights of Ukrainian citizens in the courts
July 23, 2014 – Toronto, Ontario – Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
Today, following a round table with the Ukrainian community of the Etobicoke area in Toronto, James Bezan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, and Ted Opitz, Member of Parliament for Etobicoke Centre, on behalf of Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, announced a contribution to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
The OSCE’s Human Rights Training for Judges project will increase the protection of the human rights of Ukrainian citizens in the courts by training Ukrainian legal professionals on the norms of the European Court of Human Rights.
This training program is implemented in partnership with the Ukrainian National School of Judges and the Commercial, Administrative and First Instance Courts.
Canada stands in solidarity with Ukraine’s efforts to improve the integrity of democratic institutions and practices, and focuses on reform of public institutions, including the justice system.
"Canada has been steadfast in its support for the new Ukrainian government and in its opposition to Russian aggression and occupation in Ukraine. Canada’s support comes at a time when Ukrainian citizens are fighting to restore political and economic stability in their country," said PS Bezan. "By contributing to ensure the respect of human rights in the judiciary system, Canada is helping strengthen Ukrainian institutions and consolidate Ukraine’s place among European democratic countries. We are also creating conditions where Ukrainians can contribute to, and benefit from, social and economic progress."
Canada remains united with its allies in recognizing the Government of Ukraine and in supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Canada continues to view the situation in Ukraine with the gravest concern. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a clear violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
"Canada’s work with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe contributes to improving security and political stability in Ukraine," added MP Opitz. "Canada is among the strongest international supporters of Ukraine during this important period of transition and has been a consistently strong voice for the protection of human rights and the advancement of democratic values in the world."
"Canada is a world leader in helping to promote democracy and good governance in Ukraine," said Minister Paradis. "Canada will continue to work with its allies to support efforts to reach a peaceful resolution to the conflict and restore the country to stability and unity, so that the people of Ukraine can thrive and prosper free of intimidation and threat."
Sandrine Périon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
343-203-6238
sandrine.perion@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
Follow us on Twitter: @DFATD_DEV
Like us on Facebook: Canada is Dedicated to International Development - DFATD
