Report provides human rights information to those providing support in an emergency evacuation
The Alberta Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has released an information package intended to support both evacuees and those providing support to evacuees. The report covers the human rights and responsibilities of evacuees, along with specific information on issues such as human rights in tenancy and the hospitality industry.
The information in the package is timely, as municipalities are increasingly being called upon to provide services during wildfire evacuations. The package is structured in a way to inform municipalities of human rights considerations before an evacuation is underway. Therefore, it is important for municipalities to review the material, and where appropriate include in their emergency planning.
Of note for those who provide services to evacuees are the rights of evacuated individuals:
- Right to safety and security – Every individual has the right to personal safety and security during their stay in temporary housing facilities.
- Right to basic needs – Evacuated individuals have the right to access necessities, including food, water, shelter, and medical care.
- Right to privacy – Individuals have the right to privacy and personal space to the extent possible in temporary housing conditions.
- Right to information – Individuals have the right to information about the crisis, available services, and the duration of their stay.
- Right to dignity and respect – Every person has the right to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background, beliefs, or circumstances.
Warren Noga
Policy Advisor
825.319.2285
warren@RMAlberta.com
Wyatt Skovron
General Manager of Policy & Advocacy
780.955.4096
wyatt@RMAlberta.com