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Table of Contents
Chief Commissioner’s Message
The Commission’s Mandate
Informing and Influencing Public Debate
Repeal of Section 67: Full Equality of First Nations People Before the Law
Freedom of Expression and Hate on the Internet
National Security and the Protection of Human Rights
Engaging the Public
Advancing the Human Rights System
Strengthening the Role of National Human Rights Institutions
The Universal Periodic Review
The Human Rights Report Card
Fostering a Collaborative and Interdependent Approach
Promoting Employment Equity
Facilitating Cooperation
Empowering Employers
Resolving Disputes
Litigation
Chief Commissioner’s Message
 | Sixty years ago, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights united the world in recognizing values that transcend cultures and traditions. By embracing the Universal Declaration’s principles and the civil, political, social and economic rights they are designed to protect, Canada has endeavoured to create a society known for its fairness, compassion and respect for all. |
Celebrating this important anniversary with other members of Canada’s human rights community reminded us that human rights are a responsibility that belongs to everyone. Building on the Declaration’s legacy, our collective perseverance and innovation ensure that human rights continue to evolve to reflect our changing society.
The Commission continues to refine its approach to promoting and protecting the rights of every Canadian. Drawing inspiration and insight from our past accomplishments, we continue to serve as a dynamic human rights leader, anticipating emerging issues and developing innovative and practical responses.
The repeal of section 67 of the Canadian Human Rights Act gave more than 700,000 First Nations people full access to protection under the Act. As a major advocate of repeal for the past thirty years, the Commission has been proactive in providing research, consultations and guidance to First Nations organizations, as all stakeholders prepare to implement this monumental inclusion.
Journalists, legislators and the Canadian public participated in a passionate debate on the balance between freedom of expression and protecting Canadians from hatred. The Commission welcomed this discussion and launched a comprehensive review of section 13 of the Canadian Human Rights Act to assess whether the current model is the best approach to addressing electronic expressions of hate in Canada.
Within Canada’s workplaces, the Commission continued to collaborate with employers to develop innovative discrimination prevention tools and initiatives that foster and sustain a human rights culture. Enhanced pre-audit support encouraged employers to fulfill their responsibilities set by the Employment Equity Act before they engaged in the audit process.
In fulfilling our mandate to deal with human rights complaints, the Commission continued to encourage people to find solutions using early dispute resolution processes – reducing emotional distress, strengthening morale, increasing productivity and saving time and money.
Internationally, we are ably fulfilling our role as Chair of the International Coordinating Committee of National Human Rights Institutions, leading that organization through an overhaul of its governance and fostering dynamic dialogues on thematic issues of major international importance.
The Commission noted with sadness the passing of its first Chief Commissioner, Mr. Gordon Fairweather. Mr. Fairweather was a human rights pioneer and visionary, whose unwavering drive to redefine human rights in Canada remains a source of inspiration in our work.
Within the Commission, we continue to nurture an internal culture of respect, dignity, and understanding. It is a privilege to lead people committed to fairness, compassion and respect. Their integrity, expertise and professionalism are the foundation of all that we achieve.
We believe in the difference that we make and are proud to lead the way in human rights promotion and practice.
Jennifer Lynch, Q.C.
Chief Commissioner
Canadian Human Rights Commission
