Human Rights
Section Articles
Letter to Minister Emerson re Financing for Development - October 10, 2008
In November, civil society organizations (CSOs) and government leaders from around the world will convene in Doha, Qatar to review progress on the 2002 Monterrey Financing for Development (FfD) agenda, and plot a course for the years ahead. We, the undersigned Canadian CSOs are writing to urge the Canadian government to support a strong and specific outcome document for action and for change in Doha that puts effective development, poverty eradication, international human rights, gender equality, decent work, and environmental sustainability at the fore.
Response from EDC on Tenke project - June 5, 2008
EDC thanks us for raising concerns around the project, and indicates that should they choose to support it, it would only be if they were fully compliant with their policies.
Letter to Eric Siegel, President and CEO, Export Development Canada, regarding the Tenke Fungurume concession in the DRC
The Mining Contract Review Commission, an inter-ministerial body established by the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to review numerous contracts that were awarded to mining companies between 1996 and 2005, recently released its assessment. The Commission concludes that the mining contract governing the Tenke Fungurume project is illegal and calls for its annulment. EDC is currently considering backing the project. This letter calls on EDC to immediately dismiss the application for support.
Acquittal of Congolese Soldiers and Canadian Mining Employee in War Crimes Trial Criticized - July 20, 2007
This statement from Congolese and international NGOs brings attention to the trial and acquittal of nine Congolese soldiers for war crimes, and three employees of Anvil Mining for complicity in war crimes in relation to the deaths of at least 73 civilians in Kilwa, DRC in October 2004. It was the first time in the DRC that foreign employees of a multinational company – including one Canadian – have been charged with complicity in war crimes. Citing obstructions, irregularities, and political interference, NGO observers claim the trial failed to conform to international legal standards. Included is a link to the full report.
Letter to John Ruggie re HRIA - September 24, 2006
This letter to John Ruggie, UN Special Representative to the Secretary General on Business and Human Rights, outlines the principles that individuals involved in Rights & Democracy's Human Rights Impact Assessment for communities feel are essential to any HRIA developed by governments or companies.
Letter to Prime Minister Martin, re Mining and Human Rights - October 13, 2005
We are writing to support the development of new legal and policy tools that would help ensure Canadian companies adhere to international human rights and environmental obligations when they operate overseas.
