Australia appoints its first human rights envoy

Sydney, Australia, Dec 20 (EFE).- Australia appointed its first human rights envoy on Tuesday “to restore Australia’s leadership on human rights around the world.”

A foreign ministry statement said Bronte Moules, a career diplomat, would be Australia’s inaugural ambassador for human rights.

“The creation of this role is part of Australia’s commitment to employ every strategy at our disposal towards upholding human rights, consistent with our values and with our interests,” the statement said.

“It will help bolster Australia’s support for the UN human rights architecture and international law.”

The envoy will work to advance rights and protections for people living with a disability, ethnic and religious minorities, and LGBTIQ+ individuals.

Moules has most recently been Ambassador to Zimbabwe

She has served as deputy high commissioner to Papua New Guinea, ambassador to Myanmar, and deputy head of mission at the Australian embassy in Bangkok.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had promised in his election campaign to appoint the rights envoy, who would consult with Australian stakeholders, including human rights civil society organizations and diaspora groups in Australia, as well as bilateral and regional partners, and multilateral organizations.

Australia has followed in the footsteps of countries like Germany, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Sweden, which have ambassadors to defend the human rights of vulnerable people around the world.

The government also appointed Stephanie Copus-Campbell as the gender equality ambassador.

“Promoting gender equality is a priority for Australia and central to Australia’s diplomatic, economic, development, and regional security efforts,” a separate foreign ministry said.

“Copus-Campbell will deepen Australia’s international engagement on gender equality with her expertise in community development, gender equality, and health,” the statement said.

“She will advocate the importance of women’s human rights, ending gender-based violence, women’s economic empowerment, and the leadership of women and girls.”

Copus-Campbell replaces outgoing Ambassador for Women and Girls, Christine Clarke, who was appointed in January this year. EFE

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