It works with civil society and governments in Canada and abroad to promote human rights and democratic development through dialogue, advocacy, capacity building and public education. The award ceremony is always held in Montreal on December 10th, International Human Rights Day. It is open to the public by appointment.
All staff are bilingual.
Its president is Warren Allmand, former liberal cabinet minister, who has long been involved in human rights work, including fighting against the death penalty and recognition of the rights of aboriginal peoples. The organization works with partners in the developing world on projects to strengthen democratic institutions. The organization is active in international development can speak about government policies on human rights.