431-00021 (Foreign affairs)

The Government of Canada strongly condemns the excessive and lethal use of force against protesters in Iraq since October 2019, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of protesters and thousands being injured.

Canada supports the demands of the protesters who have been peacefully asking for stability, security and prosperity for Iraqis. Respect of human rights, in Iraq and across the globe, is and will remain a Canadian priority. Furthermore, Canada has consistently called on the Government of Iraq to hold perpetrators of violations against protesters accountable.

The Government of Canada also notes with concern reports of third parties participating in the killing, kidnapping and other violent actions against peaceful protesters and civic activists, and is calling for the Iraqi authorities to ensure the safety of Iraqi citizens.

Canada has been publicly vocal in its condemnation of the violence. On November 28, 2019, Global Affairs released a statement (https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2019/11/canada-condemns-escalating-violence-in-iraq.html) condemning the violence, urging all parties to exercise restraint and refrain from violence, supporting the aspirations and human and democratic rights of the Iraqi people, and encouraging a dialogue on political and economic reforms. A Tweet (https://twitter.com/CanadaFP/status/1189592517345501185) regarding Canada’s concerns was previously released on Global Affairs Canada’s official Twitter account on October 30, 2019.

The Government of Canada has also expressed its concerns directly to the Government of Iraq stressing the importance of respecting human rights, including the freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and of the press, and addressing the legitimate demands of the protesters. During the last Universal Periodic Review of Iraq by the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on November 11, 2019, Canada recommended that the Government of Iraq (a) cease and thoroughly investigate the use of excessive force by security forces and any other armed actors during the recent protests, including the killing of protestors, and ensure perpetrators are held accountable, and (b) ensure the rights of freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and freedom of peaceful assembly are fully respected and protected, both on and offline.

The Government of Canada will continue to monitor closely developments on the ground as events unfold, call for the cessation of excessive and lethal force against protesters, engage with the Government of Iraq on the situation, and collaborate with allies and partners, including the UN, to play a constructive role in responding to the situation.