Hon. Kristopher Wells: Senator Moreau, on the occasion of the Ottawa Civic Space Summit being held here this week, which brings together global leaders towards advanced democracy, civic space and human rights, the Canadian Pride Caucus was pleased to welcome Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike of South Africa and Jessica Stern of the Alliance for Diplomacy and Justice, both of whom are internationally recognized advocates for the human rights of LGBTQ2+ people.

As communities are often on the front line of attacks from authoritarian governments, can the Canadian government assure us that Canada will continue to advance support for democracy, civil space and the human rights of LGBTQ2+ people in our foreign policy and international assistance?

Hon. Pierre Moreau (Government Representative in the Senate): I would say, Senator Wells, that the answer lies within the question itself. Certainly, the government stands behind any initiative that would protect all Canadians and promote an understanding of all Canadians and all groups, including, specifically, LGBTQ2+ groups.

Senator K. Wells: Thank you for that response. Can you outline what concrete actions Canada is taking through diplomacy, funding and multilateral engagement to support and protect LGBTQ2+ human rights defenders and civil society organizations operating in increasingly hostile environments abroad?

Senator Moreau: We’re well aware that there is a hostile environment surrounding those groups, but I will provide you a written answer to that question because it’s quite specific, and you will want to know all that the government is doing internationally to protect and promote them. I will get back to you with a written answer.