(Mississauga, Ont., September 23, 2004) - World Vision Canada applauds Prime Minister Martin's leadership in calling for a stronger role by the United Nations in the protection of civilians threatened by armed conflict, and specifically for more robust action on Sudan. This stronger strategy on Sudan responds to many of the proposals made by World Vision and the NGO community.

World Vision Canada encourages the Prime Minister to persist in showing international leadership by calling for increased action to resolve the conflict on the two other fronts of the Sudan war. There needs to be completion of the peace process in southern Sudan and an end to the spillover war in northern Uganda where children, especially, have lacked protection of their most basic rights for many years.  

Canada's leadership in the translation of human rights principles into practice could be a major contribution to global security and Canada's reputation among the people with whom World Vision works.

"Far too often World Vision and other NGOs have to address the results of humanitarian crises caused by armed conflicts," states Dave Toycen, president and CEO World Vision Canada. "Human rights abuses are often a contributing cause, as well as a consequence of violent conflicts. These crises also undo years of development and fuel disease and food shortages. We welcome a greater focus on compliance with international human rights and humanitarian laws."
 
World Vision is an international Christian relief and development organization active in more than 90 countries around the world, providing help to more than 85 million people each year.