Canada Urged to Show Same Resolve on Human Rights as It Does Against U.S. Pressure, Says Amnesty Chief
Amnesty International’s Canadian leadership is calling on the federal government to apply the same firm stance it takes in standing up to U.S. political and economic pressure to defending human rights at home and abroad. The statement, made by Amnesty Canada Secretary General Ketty Nivyabandi, emphasizes a perceived inconsistency in Canada’s global positioning — especially regarding its approach to international human rights crises.
During a recent press briefing, Nivyabandi praised Canada’s efforts to assert its sovereignty and values in the face of aggressive U.S. trade and policy moves but questioned why that same resolve isn’t always evident when it comes to challenging human rights violations, including those committed by powerful allies.
“Canada has shown courage in resisting economic and political pressure from the United States on issues like trade and defense,” she said. “But that courage must also extend to holding all countries — including close allies — accountable for human rights abuses.”
Amnesty International pointed to Canada’s tepid responses to issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the war in Gaza, arms sales to Saudi Arabia, and human rights abuses in countries with which it maintains strategic relations. The organization also criticized Ottawa’s domestic record, especially regarding Indigenous rights, migrant detention policies, and the use of excessive force in policing.
Nivyabandi urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government to adopt a consistent foreign policy that centers human rights, rather than selectively addressing abuses based on geopolitical interests. She also called for stronger support for international accountability mechanisms and increased pressure on regimes that suppress freedom of expression, women’s rights, and minority protections.
The statement comes as Canada continues to define its foreign policy direction in an increasingly multipolar world, where human rights advocacy often clashes with economic and security alliances. Recent polls have shown that Canadians generally support a more values-based approach to foreign relations, yet critics argue that political will often falls short.
Amnesty’s remarks are expected to resonate with civil society organizations and advocacy groups that have long pushed for a more principled approach to diplomacy — one that does not shy away from confronting powerful nations when human rights are at stake.
As Canada navigates evolving global tensions, Amnesty International’s message is clear: the defense of human rights should be as uncompromising as the defense of national sovereignty.
Source : The Canadian Press
