Statement by the Minister of State (Status of Women)

March 12, 2009

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OTTAWA -The Honourable Helena Guergis, Minister of State (Status of Women) expresses concern over sentence of widow in Saudi Arabia.

"Canada is deeply concerned with the sentence handed down to Khamisa Sawadi. It is disturbing that Miss Sawadi should be subject to such a sentence."

Khamisa Sawadi, a 75-year old widow living in Saudi Arabia, stands accused of meeting with two men who were not close relatives. Earlier in the week, she was sentenced to 40 lashes and four months in prison for this act.

"The Canadian government remains deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia, both in general and with respect to women's rights. We sincerely hope that the decision against Miss Sawadi will be reversed."

Canada continues to call on Saudi Arabia to live up to its international obligations, including under the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

"Canada will express our concern regarding this event to the appropriate Saudi authorities, as the promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy. We will continue to stand up for human rights and take principled positions on important issues to ensure that freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, values that define this country, are enjoyed around the world."

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Nancy Bishay
Directrice des communications
Cabinet de la ministre d'État (Condition féminine)

819‑956‑4000
Nancy.bishay@pch.gc.ca