A corporate oversight body, the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE), was dissolved by Prime Minister Mark Carney, who claimed the decision was made “months ago.” However, the office was still accepting complaints until shortly before the announcement, leading to criticism from advocacy groups. Established in 2019 under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the CORE was intended to investigate human rights violations by Canadian companies abroad. Carney described the office as ineffective, but the timing and manner of its closure surprised many, including those with ongoing complaints. The complaints previously handled by CORE will now be redirected to the National Contact Point (NCP), which has been criticized for its lack of investigative authority.
Why It Matters
The closure of CORE highlights significant concerns regarding corporate accountability and human rights in Canada, particularly in the context of Canadian companies operating internationally. Established to address these issues, CORE’s disappearance raises questions about the government’s commitment to corporate responsibility and transparency. The NCP, which will now handle complaints, has been criticized for its limited effectiveness and mediation-focused approach, potentially leaving vulnerable communities without adequate recourse. The decision follows a prolonged vacancy in CORE’s leadership, prompting calls from human rights advocates and the United Nations for urgent action to protect human rights in the corporate sector.
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