History of Peacekeeping
Since the beginning of the twentieth century, approximately 1.5 million Canadians have been asked to defend peace and freedom throughout the world. This happened during the First World War, the Second World War and the Korean War. After the Second World War, Canada became active in many missions around the world in the late 1940's. From 1950 to 1953, Canada joined with other United Nations to resist hostility during the Korean War. In 1956 the word 'peacekeeping' became popular thanks to Canada's 14th Prime Minister.
Lester B. Pearson, the Canadian Secretary of State for External Affairs and then later the Canadian Prime Minister, proposed the development of an international peace force under the United Nations. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for his visionary idea. Since this time, there have been over fifty United Nations peacekeeping missions of which Canada have been involved.
Lester B. Pearson (middle) at North Atlantic council meeting in 1953.
The government of Canada clearly stated that Peacekeeping is a very important component of Canada's contribution to the multilateral system. It is not just a question of continuing a tradition for which Canadians have a deserved international reputation; it is a question of making a solid contribution to international peace and security.
The above information was taken from: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/peacekeeping/menu-en.asp
In 1988, the Nobel Peace Prize was given to UN peacekeepers in appreciation for their historic efforts to limit violence and encourage peace. Canada has always been one of the world's most committed peacekeeping nations.
Canadian Peacekeepers located on the Kuwaiti Gulf in 1991.
"Canada is constantly becoming involved in International peacekeeping operations, however, Canadians have no need to become concerned about jeopardizing it's own internal security by protecting other countries. One thing Canada has benefited from, in terms of their international credibility, is the emphasis on peacekeeping. Keep in mind that it was Canadian initiative, originally. So, I think that most countries in the world see Canada as a peaceful nation, and I don't think that is ever going to affect our national security in a negative way."
Text
by Melissa Sands
Earth photo
used with permission from NASA
Graphics provided
with permission by http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/department/history/Pearson-en.asp
Athens District
High School