A Brief to Defend the Rights of Persons with Mental Health Issues
On this occasion, we will present the main points of our brief entitled “Acting Before the Crisis: For a Human Rights-Based and Community-Centred Approach”. This document expresses our concerns regarding the expansion of coercive measures in mental health and we advocate for the strengthening of community-based, primary and outreach services.
Opposition to Bill 23
Doctors of the World Canada, along with its partners, is asking the government not to adopt this bill, which goes against evidence-based data, expert recommendations, and global standards in this area.
If the bill were to be adopted, Doctors of the World Canada is calling for significant amendments to limit its most harmful effects on vulnerable persons.
Key Recommendations:
- Maintaining a high threshold of dangerousness for any use of coercive measures
- Implementing safeguards and equity mechanisms to prevent profiling and discrimination
- Strengthening community and primary care services as an alternative to coercion
- Respecting the fundamental rights of persons living with mental health issues