Thank you, Mr. Chair.
It's an honour to be able to honour these three human rights champions and to witness the presentation of our award to these individuals.
In a world full of conflict and exploitation, it's truly exceptional when people dedicate their lives to fighting for the rights and freedoms of others and seek to leave this world a better place than when they came into it.
Today, Canada's Subcommittee on International Human Rights recognizes these three very special people. Our committee is unique in that we aim to leave our political affiliations at the door and work together to uphold international human rights.
On behalf of the Conservative Party and His Majesty's loyal opposition, I want to express our sincere gratitude for your bravery, courage and tireless work. Daily, you risk you reputations, your freedoms, your livelihoods and your safety, and you continue to do this work in an increasingly hostile world.
Mariam, your lifelong commitment to the women of Burkina Faso is exceptional. You've spent your life as a pioneer in the fight against female genital mutilation, Mariam, and we are happy to celebrate you and your tireless work. I would also like to highlight the work the UN has done in naming an award after you. This award goes to journalists and communicators who are most active in promoting the elimination of FGM.
Keep up the good work, Mariam.
I would also like to thank Ayesha. She has been working for religious rights in India. Over the past few months I have received petitions signed by thousands of Canadians highlighting the growing threats that Muslim and Christian minorities are facing and how they are subject to planned and targeted threats, assaults, sexual violence and killings.
I want to thank you for your work in advocating on behalf of those others and their religious freedoms. It's an ever-growing concern and I will continue to raise the rights of minorities in India in our Parliament.
As the invasion of Ukraine continues, it's important to remember the toll it takes on civilians. Oleksandra, I would like to thank you for the work you are doing in securing the well-being of Ukrainians during these unprecedented times. I'd like to thank you and highlight your commitment to the safety of women and children in the world today.
These are some of the most vulnerable groups and we know that, during war and conflict, women and youth are often at an increased risk of exploitation. Now that millions of women and youth have fled Ukraine, we know that human traffickers have been targeting them. I've raised this issue in our Parliament. I want to thank you for your work to protect and uphold the rights and dignity of these vulnerable people in your country.
To all of you, on behalf of the official opposition, I want to congratulate you on receiving this distinguished recognition—the Women Human Rights Defender Award. Your tireless commitment to uphold the God-given human rights and dignity around the world is admirable and extraordinary. It's an inspiration to us.
Thank you. May God continue to bless you in your work.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.