May 22, 2015 - Ottawa, Ontario - Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:
“Canada is outraged at reports from Nigeria regarding the brutal treatment of women and girls by the terrorist group Boko Haram. Mass kidnapping, rape, sexual slavery and forced impregnation of this scale are shocking violations of international law. They can be considered war crimes and crimes against humanity. Many of these women and girls are HIV-positive, reportedly as a result of this barbaric treatment.
“We call upon the Nigerian authorities to ensure the safety of the women and girls who have escaped these horrors, and to provide assistance to the women and girls still facing the terror of captivity by Boko Haram.
“Canadians join me in expressing their support for these women and girls, and in urging Nigerian forces and those of neighbouring countries to continue their fight to restore peace and stability in northeastern Nigeria.”
Canada listed Boko Haram as a terrorist entity in December 2013.
Johanna Quinney
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
343-203-1851
johanna.quinney@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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