June 4, 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 condemns in the strongest terms all forms of sexual abuse and exploitation by UN peace operations. We are outraged by the recent allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse by peacekeepers in the Central African Republic and by the unacceptable delays in investigating these egregious acts.
“These cases of sexual exploitation and abuse not only traumatize those the UN is dedicated to serve, but also damage the reputation, authority and effectiveness of UN peacekeeping.
“We welcome recent efforts announced by the UN Secretary-General to address sexual exploitation and abuse.
“The UN must do more to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse and to fully investigate any allegations against UN peacekeepers and staff.
“Canada is among the strongest proponents of the UN’s zero-tolerance approach to sexual abuse and exploitation. These announcements must be backed by robust action.”
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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