The Canadian Government issues an official response to the parliamentary report on Tibet, emphasizing the need for transparency, multilateral action, and the protection of human rights.
The Government of Canada has formally addressed the recommendations put forth in the report titled "The Human Rights Situation of Tibetans and the Chinese Residential Boarding School and Pre-School System." This comprehensive report, commissioned by the House of Commons Standing Subcommittee on Human Rights, a subcommittee of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development, highlights the concerns surrounding the human rights situation in Tibet and the Chinese residential boarding school system.
Mr. Sherap Therchin, the Executive Director of the Canada Tibet Committee (CTC), expressed his gratitude for the government's response to this vital parliamentary study. He stated, "We genuinely appreciate the Government of Canada's response to the important parliamentary study of the human rights situation of Tibetans and the Chinese residential boarding school system. We are grateful for the past and ongoing support from the government on Tibet-related matters, and as we move forward, we remain hopeful for an even more proactive stance from the Government of Canada by imposing measures such as travel sanctions on relevant Chinese officials in collaboration with our global allies to ensure that no more Tibetan children are forcibly separated from their parents and into residential schools."
Key highlights from the government's response to the parliamentary report on Tibet include:
Acknowledgment of Serious Allegations: The government acknowledges the seriousness of the human rights violations outlined in the report and draws parallels with Canada's own history regarding residential schools and their profound impact on Indigenous Peoples.
Advocacy for Transparency: Canada underscores the necessity for countries, including the People's Republic of China (PRC), to address these allegations transparently. Canada will continue advocating for unhindered access to Tibet and Xinjiang for UN experts, researchers, and foreign journalists.
Multilateral Action: Canada is leveraging opportunities at the United Nations (UN) to address concerns related to the PRC's residential school system by co-sponsoring events and delivering joint statements that challenge China's human rights record.
Freedom of Religion or Belief: The government reaffirms its commitment to promoting freedom of religion or belief. Concerns about the situation of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the 11th Panchen Lama of Tibet, were highlighted, with Canada having raised these concerns with Chinese authorities since 1995.
Sino-Tibetan Dialogue: Canada continues to support dialogue between the Chinese government and representatives of the Tibetan people, advocating for a resolution acceptable to both parties.
Immigration Initiatives: Canada has recently expanded protections for resettled refugees, including a dedicated stream for human rights defenders and their families.
Protecting Canadians: The government acknowledges reports of harassment and intimidation of Canadians with ties to China.
Project Funding: Canada offers mechanisms for funding projects that address development and human rights issues. Tibetan-related projects currently underway include the "Enhancement of the Education and Resilience of Tibetan Youth" and the establishment of a new Centre for China Policy Research to enhance understanding of China-related issues.
For more details, please refer to the full governmnet reponse here. The response highlights Canada's commitment to addressing human rights issues in Tibet and its dedication to fostering a more transparent, accountable, and rights-respecting international community.
Edited and collated by Team TRC