Maxed-out Afghanistan mission undermines military flexibility, say Greens

HALIFAX – The Green Party is expressing deep dismay at news that Canada has declined a United Nations invitation to assume overall command of a reconstituted peacekeeping force in the Congo. The government has said that it will instead continue to devote its resources to the military mission in Afghanistan.

“The UN request for Canadian leadership in commanding its biggest mission reflects the high regard for our former experience and abilities in peacekeeping,” said Green Party leader Elizabeth May. “But after extending the combat mission in southern Afghanistan beyond the previous February 2009 exit date, the Conservatives apparently cannot even spare one single two-star general and a few support staff as requested by the UN. The Harper government’s abandonment of Canada’s traditional role as a peacekeeping nation has never been more obvious.”

Ms. May noted that in the most recent UN report on contributions by country of military personnel to UN peacekeeping operations, Canada is ranked a dismal 53rd out of 117 countries participating. In this respect, Canada falls far behind many countries with only a fraction of the resources and population possessed by Canada.

The UN operation in the Congo (MONUC) has been plagued with problems in establishing stability and peace after the official end to a five-year civil war that claimed over five million lives. Northeastern Congo is still afflicted with armed conflict between militia groups competing for access to the rich mineral wealth of the region. The situation for woman and children in the area is especially desperate and tragic.

Green Party International Affairs critic Eric Walton also expressed his deep frustration at the human costs of the Harper government’s foreign policy mismanagement.

“What is happening today in the heart of Africa is a continuing crime against humanity. It is Rwanda, parts two and three,” said Mr. Walton. “But the Conservative Government has so reduced Canada’s military flexibility that it cannot answer the call for help even when it comes loud and clear. It is a shameful day for Canada when our country turns its back on the UN and refuses to assist those in such dire need of aid in the Congo.”