Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
Human rights defenders are asking you today to ensure that Canada applies the great principles of the rule of law. We have to tell you that our appearance before you is giving hope to the relatives of the victims, the witnesses and the victims who have survived the abuses of the Philippine regime, hope that assistance and, most importantly, justice can come from our international community being mobilized.
Please include in your report the importance of human rights defenders. They are often the first to denounce abuses, but also the first to be killed in action and be vilified. They are too easily targeted. It is important to provide money and support for them and to integrate the set of guidelines into a real Canadian support program. The guidelines are good and important, but they are not enough. We need to take the steps that will get us there.