UN Human Rights Council 11th Session
Statement by the Delegation of the United States
June 9, 2009
Thank you, Madame President.
The United States appreciates Canada’s efforts to settle Aboriginal land claims, with a view toward accelerating the process. The United States also welcomes the attention to recommendations that Canada review the effectiveness of anti-trafficking laws and coordinate law enforcement efforts among national, provincial, and state authorities. We would welcome any further information available on such reviews.
The United States commends Canada’s acknowledgement of civil society concerns with regard to its UPR preparation process and appreciates Canada’s efforts to build on its constructive relationships with civil society organizations by consulting with them on UPR follow-up activities. Canada’s strong support of civil society’s participation in multilateral fora and consultations with them in domestic matters is well known and to be commended.
Canada has been a model member of the Human Rights Council in its formative years, demonstrating through its words and actions a deep commitment to promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms and to upholding the Council’s mandate to address critical human rights situations globally. Canada sets very high standards for its own human rights practices; its comprehensive and open approach to the UPR process is to be emulated.
Thank you.