Until very recently, many people felt that disagreements and conflicts between nations and communities could only be resolved through war or the threat of force. Although everyone wishes to live in peace, we are often confused about how it can be achieved. Violence inevitably leads to more violence. It is not the solution – certainly not in the long term. Today, more and more people realise that the proper way of resolving differences is through dialogue, compromise and discussions, through human understanding and humility. There is a growing appreciation that genuine peace comes about through mutual understanding, respect and trust.
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Two of Canada’s most prominent figures in the field of human security, peacebuilding and disarmament have called for the creation of a Canadian Department of Peace and for all national political leaders to respond to this proposal.

The Hon. Lloyd Axworthy, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Sen. Douglas Roche(ret.), former Canadian Ambassador for Disarmament, state in their letter that, “although many federal departments have peace-related mandates, a Department of Peace would have the authority and resources to coordinate effective policy direction,” and that, this initiative will strengthen Canada’s ability to provide “the global leadership needed to successfully navigate the 21st century.” The new department would function in close collaboration with Foreign Affairs, DND, CIDA and civil society groups. (more…)