If there is one issue that really strikes a chord with me in this election, it is that of Canada’s place in the world.
For as many years as I can remember, Canada was always a world leader in world affairs. The global humanitarian. An outspoken proponent of human rights.
It was a proud moment in Canada when future-Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson won the Nobel Peace Prize for his leadership role in defusing the Suez crisis. Canada’s role in future peacekeeping and the very concept itself were due in large part to Pearson’s vision.
Canada has been at the forefront of the human rights moment for decades, as a world leader at the United Nations, development of human rights declaration and through development of our own domestic human rights policy.
Unfortunately, under the Harper government, Canada has lost this reputation. Last week, Amnesty International said “Canada’s standing as an international human rights champion has dropped.”
Harper’s foreign policy, lackluster leadership in the middle east and deplorable conditions in First Nations communities have all contributed to our sinking reputation.
Canada’s role in the world must be restored. Under a Liberal government, Canada can once again be a leader in the area of human rights, indigenous rights, and global security. I have no doubt in my mind, that Canada’s reputation from the time of Lester B. Pearson will once again redeem the shining glory.
(A guest blog by Bob Goulais)
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