TIBOR KOLLEY/THE GLOBE AND MAIL
The Broadbent Institute is saddened to learn of the passing of the Right Honourable former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.
Together, Brian Mulroney and Ed Broadbent established the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development in 1988 to "encourage and support the universal values of human rights and the promotion of democratic institutions and practices around the world." Mulroney appointed Broadbent as Rights and Democracy’s first president, which enabled Ed to build solidarity and social democracy globally.
Ed felt a strong respect for Prime Minister Mulroney as someone who could also see the value of human rights, breaking with Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan on the issue of South African Apartheid, and recognition of Canada’s wrongful internment of Japanese-Canadians during the Second World War. After they left active electoral politics, they remained in occasional contact, sharing mutual respect despite their political differences. Following the passing of Ed Broadbent on January 11, 2024, Mulroney reflected on his legacy and said that Canadians should remember Ed Broadbent “with respect, affection and admiration.” Though formidable political opponents in Parliament, Broadbent and Mulroney found common ground to work together on issues of human rights and democracy.
The Broadbent Institute recognizes the common values and legacy shared with a legendary Canadian political figure, and sends its condolences to the Mulroney family.
