2007 Annual Report
working in solidarity
International solidarity sends a message to those struggling to realize their dreams that they are not alone. When we bear witness to the experiences of others, we can raise awareness about their situation and engage others to act. Inter Pares stands in solidarity with communities in other countries who are working for change, using our position as Canadian allies to marshal political and financial resources in support of their efforts.
One such example is our support to Burmese struggles for democracy and justice. Working with organizations based on Burma's borders, including the Burma Relief Centre and the Thailand Burma Border Consortium, we collaborate to provide food, shelter, and health services to refugees living in Thailand, to strengthen independent local media, and to provide information to national and international bodies such as human rights organizations and the UN. This work overseas guides our education, coalition-building, and advocacy efforts here in Canada.
The Karen Human Rights Group (KHRG) is a small organization with a network of researchers based inside Burma who document human rights violations in Karen State. This often dangerous work gathers and gives voice to the perspectives and experiences of villagers, and supports their strategies to defend their rights. In coalition with other Canadian NGOs and solidarity groups, Inter Pares provides information to Canadians and our government about the human rights situation in Burma through reports such as those produced by KHRG.
The "Saffron Revolution" led by monks and nuns last September brought unprecedented world attention to this beleaguered nation. In solidarity with the people of Burma, the Canadian Friends of Burma (CFOB) helped coordinate a Global Day of Action on October 6 to raise public awareness and to pressure world leaders to take concrete action. CFOB was also instrumental in the formation of the Parliamentary Friends of Burma, a group now composed of thirty-six MPs and senators from all political parties in Canada. Throughout 2007, CFOB provided this group with current information and promoted a progressive Canadian foreign policy on Burma. In November 2007, these efforts culminated in the Canadian government's announcement of comprehensive targeted sanctions against the military regime.
| Reviewed April 30, 2008 |  |
Publishing Policies |
