2012 John Diefenbaker Awards recognize Shahbaz Bhatti and Argentinian activist Susana Trimarco.
OTTAWA – Former Pakistani Minister was presented this year’s John Diefenbaker Defender of Human Rights and Freedom Award
Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird presented the award to the late Shahbaz Bhatti, Pakistan’s former Federal Minister for Minorities, and Susana Trimarco, Argentinian activist and founder of the Fundación María de los Ángeles.
“With this award, Canada honours the memory of Shahbaz Bhatti, whose determined efforts in the struggle for equality, justice and freedom cost him his life,” said Baird. “Braving multiple threats to his safety, Mr. Bhatti worked tirelessly to advance the rights of Pakistan’s religious minorities.” Mr. Peter Bhatti accepted the award on behalf of his late brother.
“Canada also hails the courage of Susana Trimarco, who helped to shed light on the world of human trafficking and forced prostitution while searching for her missing daughter,” Baird said. “The foundation she created, Fundación María de los Ángeles, has helped raise awareness of this issue. Through Ms. Trimarco’s unyielding determination, she has helped hundreds of victims escape inhumane conditions.” Canada is among those nations leading the world in combatting human trafficking.
Bhatti was elected to the National Assembly of Pakistan in 2008 and named Federal Minister for Minorities—a portfolio he accepted because of the opportunity it offered to defend the oppressed and marginalized of Pakistan.
As Minister, Bhatti took steps to advance the rights of religious minorities. These included launching a national campaign to promote interfaith harmony. Bhatti also fought valiantly against abuses of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws during his time in government.
Bhatti helped to found the All Pakistan Minorities Alliance in 1985 and subsequently chaired that organization. He also served as head of Pakistan’s Christian Liberation Front, which he formed in 1985. In 2002, he joined the Pakistan Peoples Party.
Minister Bhatti visited Canada in February 2011 where he met with Prime Minister Stephen Harper, among other government ministers.
Shortly after his visit to Canada, Minister Bhatti was assassinated while on his way to work.
