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The Impact of Foreign Interference on Genocide Survivors

AGVC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


[Ottawa, October 2nd] The Alliance of Genocide Victim Communities (AGVC) has been actively engaged with the Foreign Interference Commission throughout its work, recognizing the critical importance of combating attempts to undermine the democratic processes that form the foundation of our society in Canada. 


On October 2nd, 2024, several representatives from our allied communities will speak publicly to the commission: Sherap Therchin from the Canadian Tibet Committee, Kayum Masimov from the Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project, and Sieru Kebede from Security and Justice for Tigrayans Canada will testify about their communities’ experiences. 

 

“Foreign interference has a devastating impact on genocide victim communities in Canada, from misinformation campaigns to cyberattacks, undermining our healing efforts and obstructing progress towards justice and peace," expressed Uyghur representative and AGVC member Kayum Masimov. 


Genocide survivor communities in Canada face various types of foreign interference, including:


  • Surveillance and Intimidation: Foreign governments or affiliated groups monitor and intimidate survivors or their advocates through digital surveillance, harassment, or threatening messages aimed at silencing them or discouraging activism.

  • Disinformation Campaigns: Some foreign actors spread false information or discredit survivor narratives, often through media or social platforms, to undermine their credibility and shift blame away from perpetrators of the genocide.

  • Targeted Cyberattacks: Hackers target activists and organizations representing survivors seeking to breach sensitive information or disrupt their operations.

  • Pressure on Families Abroad: Survivors face threats directed toward family members still residing in their country of origin, where oppressive regimes target or harass them as a way to pressure survivors to cease their activism in Canada.


"These insidious tactics jeopardize the safety and well-being of our communities,” said Tibetan representative and AGVC member Sherap Therchin, “creating an atmosphere of distrust and uncertainty, they are clearly aimed at silencing survivors and weakening the influence of diaspora communities advocating for justice and recognition.”


The Alliance of Genocide Victim Communities is founded on principles of mutual support and collaboration, and we believe that by standing together and advocating for transparency, integrity, and fairness in our democratic processes, we create a country where every voice can be heard and we are each empowered to shape a brighter future. We hope the Foreign Interference Commission will generate insightful reports that suggest meaningful remedies for the detrimental effects of foreign interference, bolstering the foundation of trust and cohesion within our diverse country and cultivating an atmosphere of transparency, fairness, and mutual respect, which are all essential for fostering harmonious and integrated communities that flourish.


"Genocide survivors have endured hell on earth, escaping nightmare realities to seek refuge in Canada. Coming to this strong democratic nation, where principles of freedom and respect are enshrined into law, we are relieved to have the opportunity to start anew after journeys that have sometimes taken us halfway around the globe.” said AGVC facilitator Joanne Hodges, “Despite being physically surrounded by vast oceans on three fronts and the welcoming support of our well-intentioned government, survivors find that the shadow of perpetrators can still loom over us. Genocides are always orchestrated by powerful collectives, often by nation-states with significant resources. In our interconnected, globalized physical and digital world, many individuals here have not yet entirely escaped their grasp. As communities, we navigate the complexities of these experiences, but our representatives remain firmly committed to advocating for one another’s rights, preserving and celebrating each other's heritage, and ensuring that all voices are heard despite any dangers faced.”


For media inquiries in english, please contact AGVC facilitator Joanne Hodges at 416-827-7823, joanne.m.hodges@gmail.com.


For media inquiries in french, please contact AGVC member Kayum Masimov at 438-826-1346, masimovkayum@gmail.com.







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AGVC stand in solidarity with all genocide victim communities, and pledge to never forget the atrocities that have been committed. Together, we will continue to fight for justice, raise awareness, and honor the memories of those who have been lost. #NeverAgain

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