Advocates for minority rights highlight the struggle of a former diplomat who had to turn to the Federal Court to push her employer to address her discrimination grievances, emphasizing the urgent need for reform in whistleblower protection within the public service at Global Affairs Canada.
After nearly four years since her posting to Kuwait, Madina Iltireh’s account of events at the embassy has finally received attention.
Per Global Affairs Canada’s investigation report, obtained by Radio-Canada, four out of eight of her complaints against Canada’s former ambassador to Kuwait were found to be valid.
However, the report did not offer any specific recommendations.
“But still I don’t see any apology,” Iltireh expressed. “I need the department to demonstrate change, improvements in these issues, and assurance that such incidents will not recur.”
She is now seeking compensation for her ordeal.
I went through hell.– Madina Iltireh, former Canadian diplomat
In response, GAC stated to Radio-Canada that it cannot discuss individual cases “or those currently in progress.”
The department further conveyed in French that it “maintains a zero-tolerance stance towards any kind of misconduct or malpractice.”
The former ambassador to Kuwait, in French correspondence, mentioned that “it is advisable not to comment during an ongoing process.”
Challenging Experience
Upon her arrival in Kuwait in the summer of 2018, Iltireh, who is Black and wears a hijab, assumed the role of an assistant to the ambassador. She asserted that the discriminatory treatment started shortly after her arrival.
In a formal complaint to GAC, the ex-diplomat described being subjected to continuous incidents of racial harassment, discrimination, and intimidation during her three-year tenure in the country.
The department’s inquiry discovered that Iltireh faced challenges adapting to her role and failed to meet performance objectives, primarily due to her lack of diplomatic background.
However, evidence presented during the investigation revealed that Iltireh sought assistance on multiple occasions.
Several witnesses interviewed by GAC described the situation as “a labor dispute” that evolved “for various reasons.”
They noted that “Madina Iltireh’s demeanor was deemed inappropriate, she heavily relied on their aid for her tasks, faced language barriers, and appeared unfriendly,” according to GAC’s findings.
As a result, some individuals spoke negatively about her, leading to strained relationships and Iltireh feeling excluded and marginalized.
The investigation concluded that by neglecting to address the situation, the ambassador essentially “encouraged and tolerated” workplace bullying and discrimination.
The report determined that the ambassador, now working in a different country, failed in his duty to ensure a healthy work environment for Madina Iltireh.
Iltireh revealed that the experience profoundly impacted her mental well-being and self-esteem, causing anxiety and memory lapses resulting in errors.
“I went through hell,” she revealed. “I am striving to recover what I lost, but the journey continues.”
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