rightsanddemocracymovement.org

I am writing to the Government of Canada to express my concern about what is happening at the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development: a crisis originated from the Centre's loss of independence from the country's political options. Impartiality and freedom of thought are vital to the functioning of a democratic system and are also among the founding principles of Canada's International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development, also known as Rights & Democracy.

I have had the privilege to serve on the Board of Canada's International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development during six years. I also worked with the Centre on critical issues such as the recovery of democracy in Peru, and later, the participation of victims of human rights violations in the public hearings held by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, put in place by the transitional government of Peru.

Furthermore, we also worked together within the Organization of America States (OAS) in very difficult times for our country and where the Government of Canada played a fundamental and critical role. The Centre also played a leading role in facilitating the participation of civil society in the General Assembly of the OAS, promoting the organization of such participation across the continent, in coordination with hundreds of civil society organizations, which has clearly had a positive impact on strengthening this regional instrument.

Such a positive role, that has yielded significant results through the years, must not be reduced. All efforts must be made to guarantee the independence of this most important agency, which has made outstanding contributions to strengthening civil society participation in public forums in many parts of the world, and whose track record has gained wide recognition and respect in various sectors.

I am confident that the Canadian Government will address this concern, which is not only mine, but is shared by many individuals and organizations who appreciate Canada's contribution to strengthening human rights and democracy.

Sincerely,

Sofía Macher
Former member of the Board of Rights & Democracy
Peru