Canadians back peacekeeping effort

Re: It will take more than a few Canadian choppers to save Mali, March 19.

There are fearsome challenges in Mali from corruption and criminality, fuelling ongoing insecurity and conflict as Canada deploys an Aviation Task Force to the UN’s Multi-dimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).

If there were no corruption, then resilient infrastructure and support for the Truth and Reconciliation Mechanism, UN Peacekeeping and a broad development investment from the international community would not be needed.

Mali has a population of innocent civilians confronting a youth explosion (in 2017, fully 67 per cent of the population was under 25) and the erosion of the state’s ability to deliver security, basic health care and education. All heighten risks of more radicalization.

Canadians understand the value and urgency of confronting instability and conflict around the world. UNA-Canada recently commissioned a poll in which 88 per cent of respondents across gender, age and political party affiliation either support, strongly support or do not oppose deploying soldiers and police to UN peacekeeping.

In spite of risks, Canadians remain committed to actively working toward a better world.

Kathryn White, President & CEO, United Nations Association of Canada

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