On the first day, ministers had the opportunity to speak with representatives from Indigenous groups, civil society organizations and human rights commissions about the progress and implementation of human rights in Canada and remaining challenges. HRREC Assistant Director Viviana Fernandez moderated two of those sessions which highlighted topics such as diversity, inclusion and anti-racism measures; the rights of persons with disabilities; domestic implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child; strengthening implementation of human rights in Canada; and the important role of human rights commissions. The meeting of the Forum of Ministers on Human Rights was co-hosted by the Government of Canada and the Government of Nova Scotia.
Viviana Fernandez moderates consultation sessions during Forum of FPT ministers responsible for human rights
On June 19 and 20, 2023, Federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) ministers responsible for human rights held a two-day meeting where they discussed key priorities related to Canada's international human rights obligations.