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|  | Liaison Newsletter > LIAISON-Canada Electronic Newsletter #3
Marking 50 years of UN Human Rights Work UNA-Canada’s Human Rights Committee has undertaken a major initiative to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1998. Under the Chair of the Hon. Walter McLean, preliminary work has begun on a series of national consultations to give definition to programmes and activities marking the anniversary. "This is a document of substantial importance to Canada and the world community," says McLean. "The first of its kind, this international declaration has given birth to a wide array of international human rights norms and standards that define the rights of citizens in the global community." The committee has received a modest grant from the Department of Canadian Heritage and the seconded services of Peter-André Globensky, a senior staff member of the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development. With the assistance of Globensky and two consultants, McLean has begun the process of consulting with federal and provincial ministers responsible for Human Rights, statutory agencies, labour and business and non- government organizations. The objective is to determine their interest in and commitment to activities that would mark the anniversary. The committee also plans to consult with UNA-Canada branches and members across the country. The Committee is also considering activities that could be launched under the UNA-Canada banner. "Canada," says McLean, "has played a remarkably active role in enshrining human rights principles in international law. It is a role that is unsung, but one in which we can take immense pride. It is important that we remind Canadians and the world community that safeguarding the dignity of the human person is the essence of peace and justice." |
