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Election of Yalden to UN Human Rights Committee
September 12, 1996
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Chrétien today welcomed the election of
Max Yalden to the United Nations Human Rights Committee.
"I am very pleased by Mr. Yalden's election to the Committee.
His extensive experience and expertise in Canada and internationally
will make him a valuable member of this key United Nations human
rights body," said the Prime Minister.
The Human Rights Committee is composed of 18 independent experts
who monitor the implementation of the International Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights. One hundred and thirty three states,
including Canada, have ratified the Covenant. Under the provisions
of the Covenant's First Optional Protocol, the Committee also
considers petitions from individuals alleging violations by States
Parties.
Mr. Yalden has been Canada's Chief Human Rights Commissioner since
1987 and has also served as Canada's Official Languages Commissioner.
Until recently, Mr. Yalden served as founding Chair of the Coordinating
Committee of National Institutions, created following the 1993
World Conference on Human Rights. Mr. Yalden has also had a distinguished
diplomatic career and was Canada's ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg
from 1984 to 1987.
Mr. Yalden's term begins January 1, 1997, and is for a period
of four years.
PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555
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