QUESTION PERIOD — Global Affairs
Human Rights in Myanmar
November 20, 2025
Government leader, for years Canada was regarded as a principled and reliable voice for the Rohingya, a persecuted people who continue to endure violence, forced displacement and profound insecurity. Yet as their circumstances grow ever more dire, Canada has been missing in action. Since a multi-year support strategy expired in 2024, the government has not followed through with a comparable framework.
Canada has not meaningfully expanded resettlement opportunities, has taken limited action to advance legal accountability and has yet to appoint a new special envoy to Myanmar.
Leader, how does the government reconcile its stated commitment to protecting the Rohingya with what looks increasingly like declining strategic engagement?
I don’t have any specific information on that matter, but you raise a very important question. I look forward to working with you to raise this issue with the government representative and to providing you with a proper answer. At this time, it’s impossible for me to give you a forecast of what will happen with that. I certainly accept your invitation to follow through and ask questions on those very important issues.
Senator Moreau, today is World Children’s Day, yet over half a million Rohingya children remained deprived of basic rights, facing malnutrition, forced displacement and sexual and gender-based violence. I was told that sexual predators have moved in and human trafficking is taking place in the camps.
Canada once had a meaningful human rights reputation. Now this reputation has been reduced to lip service. Will your government honour Canada’s humanitarian commitments, or has Canada abandoned its role on the world stage?
At this time, I cannot comment or make any announcement on behalf of the government, but I must tell you that I was very moved by your declaration and the issue that your question raises. Even those who don’t have children would wish the best for them in life and not what you described in your declaration and your question.
