December 1, 2014 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today presented the John Diefenbaker Defender of Human Rights and Freedom Award to William Hague, the U.K.'s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict and former U.K. foreign secretary, for his work on the prevention of sexual violence in conflict.
"William Hague has been instrumental in bringing the issue of sexual violence in conflict to international attention," said Baird. "His extraordinary efforts in preventing and responding to sexual violence in conflict sends a clear message to women and girls worldwide: the world is watching, and we are taking action to end this heinous practice.
"With this award, Canada pays tribute to Mr. Hague's unwavering commitment to the empowerment and well-being of women and girls around the world—a commitment that Canada is proud to share. We look forward to continuing our work together to prevent violence, support survivors and hold perpetrators to account."
In November 2014, Canada and the U.K. conducted a joint assessment mission in Iraq that identified a range of opportunities to bring much-needed assistance to survivors of sexual violence. In the House of Commons in October, Baird announced $10 million to help respond to sexual violence in areas affected by the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.
This is the final event of the 2014 John Diefenbaker Award, following recent presentations on the theme of child, early and forced marriage and on protecting Internet freedom.
For the full text of the speech, please visit Address by Minister Baird Presenting the John Diefenbaker Defender of Human Rights and Freedom Award to William Hague.
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