Introduction to Peacekeeping in Canada
Peacekeeping is an important part of our Canadian heritage, which reflects our personality and fundamental beliefs. Peacekeeping today responds to international convictions and creates security for people affected by war.
Peacekeeping is a major part of Canada's foreign policy and our contribution to an international security system. Canada has been involved in Peacekeeping missions for over fifty years and been participating in a majority of missions given by the United Nations Security Council. Canada has built a strong reputation for being active peacekeepers throughout the world.
"The only difference between peacekeeping and war is the blue beret. There is no real difference."
Canadian peacekeepers on site in Kuwait in 1991.
Canada does not only become involved with peacekeeping missions from the United Nations, but from other international and national organizations as well. Canada peace support efforts include diverse groups such as The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and their provincial and municipal partners, Elections Canada and Corrections Services Canada, regional forums such as North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and the Organization of African Unity (OAU).
Peacekeepers traditionally take up positions between hostile forces to supervise cease-fires, and the withdrawal of opposing forces. Recently, the role of peacekeeping has evolved to include the delivery of humanitarian aid, the supervision of election, the distributions of refugees, the disarming of weapons of mass destruction, and the repairing of destroyed landscapes and habitat. Other important parts of peacekeeping are the support for government and human rights, including elections and government systems, and the training of police forces and judiciary. Current peacekeeping activities now involve many Canadian civilians, in addition to the Canadian Armed Forces.
Text
by Melissa Sands
Earth photo
used with permission from NASA
Athens District
High School