Chen Chu (right), president of the Control Yuan and chair of the National Human Rights Commission, presents a gift to Amnesty International Secretary-General Agnes Callamard June 27 in Taipei City. (Courtesy of NHRC)
 

Control Yuan President Chen Chu, who is also chair of the National Human Rights Commission, received a delegation from Amnesty International June 27 in Taipei City.

The group was led by Agnes Callamard, secretary-general of the London-based global organization, and included Deputy Regional Director of Asia Sarah M. Brooks, Senior Executive Coordinator Veronica Sabino and representatives of the local chapter.

During her welcome remarks, Chen brought the delegates up to speed on the NHRC’s progress since its establishment in August 2020, especially with regard to protecting the rights of workers in Taiwan’s fishing industry. Chen added that the commission maintains its position that the government must halt execution of the death penalty as it seeks public consensus on the issue and listens to the input of victims’ families.

Chen also took the opportunity to personally thank AI for its work rescuing political dissidents in Taiwan. In response, Callamard reiterated her organization’s commitment to prisoners of conscience around the world, adding that it is heartening to see the virtuous cycle in action: Chen, aided by AI while imprisoned under martial law, is now leading government human rights protection efforts in Taiwan.

Callamard said that her organization is paying close attention to Taiwan’s difficult situation during a time of high global tension and carefully considering how organizations around the world can contribute to human rights protection in Taiwan.

During her stay, Callamard will meet with civil society groups and lawmakers to discuss issues such as challenges faced by Indigenous people, LGBTQ+ people and the impact of climate change. (SFC-E)