Keeping the peace: Canada should jump-start a UN Emergency Peace Service and Canadian peacekeeping training centre

Authors

Erika Simpson, University of Western Ontario (Western University)Follow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-25-2016

Journal

London Free Press

Abstract

Canada should spearhead the establishment of a UN Emergency Peace Service (UNEPS) and re-open a Canadian peacekeeping training centre in Kingston. The Global Peace Index reveals that global violence costs 13.4% of GDP, with only 10 conflict-free countries and increasing arms sales. While Canada ranks as the world's second-largest arms exporter, civil society organizations advocating for peace are struggling due to cutbacks. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's commitment to peace is overshadowed by Canada's participation in arms trades and NATO military contributions. A UNEPS could offer rapid, reliable responses to conflict and humanitarian crises. Re-establishing the Lester B. Pearson Multinational Peacekeeping Training Centre would enhance Canada’s capacity to train peacekeepers and address global security challenges effectively.

Notes

First published in the London Free Press.