Prioritize religious freedom in foreign policy
Petitioners ask Canada to press Egypt over kidnappings of Coptic Christians and to prioritize religious freedom and minority protection in its foreign policy. The government responds that Canada engages with Egypt and advocates for religious freedom.
Why we would sign this petition
- It would give Canadian diplomacy concrete weight behind stopping kidnappings and signal international concern for Coptic victims.
- It aligns Canada’s foreign policy with stated commitments to human rights and religious freedom, reinforcing values‑based diplomacy.
- Raising the issue publicly could prompt Egyptian authorities and international partners to increase protections for vulnerable minorities.
Why we wouldn’t sign this petition
- Bilateral pressure could strain Canada–Egypt relations and reduce cooperation on other issues requiring joint work.
- Canada’s unilateral advocacy may have limited effect if Egyptian local authorities do not change practices, risking symbolic rather than practical gains.
- A multilateral or targeted approach (working with allies or international bodies) might be more effective than pressing Egypt alone.
The summary and both sets of reasons are AI-generated from the petition and given equal weight. Claims are the petitioners’ own; consult the official record for the full text.
Official petition
PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas Coptic Christians in Egypt are one of the oldest Christian communities in the world, and freedom of belief is affirmed in the Egyptian Constitution; and, Whereas reports indicate numerous kidnappings of Coptic Christian women, including at least 8 in April 2018 alone, and these women are suspected of being subject to forced conversions and marriages, or else of being sold into domestic and sexual slavery; and, Whereas the government and President of Egypt have expressed solidarity with the Coptic communities; and, Whereas local authorities often do not reflect the stated solidarity of the President and government of Egypt with the Coptic people, and do not respond to the concerns of Coptic Christians, including the recent string of kidnappings; Therefore we, the undersigned, urge the government of Canada to prioritize the principles of universal human rights and religious freedoms in their foreign policy by forcefully raising the issue of the kidnapping of Copts and the protection of minorities with the government of Egypt.
Government response
Response by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Signed by Rob Oliphant Canada stands in solidarity with all faith and belief communities against hatred and intolerance and shares the desire to build a more just and inclusive world. Internationally, Canada seeks to advocate on behalf of persecuted faith and belief communities, oppose all religious hatred, discrimination, and xenophobia, and foster greater mutual respect and understanding through interfaith and intercultural dialogues. Canada values its partnership with Egypt and continues to engage constructively on issues of human rights and religious freedom, in support of Egypt’s constitutional commitments to protect freedom of belief and ensure the safety and security of all citizens. Canada maintains regular institutional engagement with the Coptic Church and prominent members of the Coptic community. Canada will continue to monitor and advocate for the protection of vulnerable communities in Egypt. Ten years ago, Canada launched the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, bringing together a diverse, cross-regional group of over twenty countries and international organizations to promote and protect freedom of religion or belief around the world. By mobilizing a diverse group committed to freedom of religion or belief and allowing for frank discussion and the pursuit of areas for action, the International Contact Group provides Canada and international partners with a useful platform to help address the growing repression of the individual right to believe and worship freely. We are committed to working with other governments, including the Egyptian government, as well as multilateral and non-governmental organizations to achieve these goals. As a multicultural and multifaith country, Canada aims to champion inclusive and accountable governance, pluralism, and respect for diversity in all spheres of society. Diversity and protected freedom of religion or belief contribute to a more resilient, prosperous, and peaceful society, to the benefit of all.