This article explores the concept of establishing a Canadian peacekeeping force to manage the Canada-U.S. border, proposing a more innovative and sustainable solution than traditional border security measures.
Erika Simpson is an associate professor of international politics at Western University and president of the Canadian Peace Research Association. The Canada -U.S. border is the world’s longest undefended boundary. But it faces growing challenges, with president-elect Donald Trump making it a political sticking point as migrants and drugs flow through it.
Canada’s 2024 Fall Economic Statement outlined significant investments in border management, including advanced technologies such as drones and a $1.3-billion border security package allocated to Public Safety Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency, the Communications Security Establishment, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. However, this approach may prove neither sustainable nor ideal. Instead, a more innovative and forward-looking solution could involve the establishment of a made-in-Canada peacekeeping force to oversee and safeguard the border. A neutral peacekeeping presence could not only reduce costs but also foster global co-operation and innovation. Drawing inspiration from the United Nations’ ability to deploy professional soldiers from the Global South, a border peacekeeping initiative would channel resources into peacekeeping operations while providing economic opportunities for the local communities from which personnel are recruited. These soldiers, trained in neutrality and conflict resolution, would symbolize a commitment to international stewardship and co-operation. They would not don the UN’s iconic blue helmets, because of a likely veto from the UN Security Council, of which the U.S. is a member. But a peacekeeping force could also offer a valuable opportunity to engage young people in the service of Canada and, perhaps in the future, the United States. Many young individuals might be drawn to the opportunity to experience life in a country known for its universal health care and progressive values. A one-year visa program could attract participants, including those with Ivy League credentials and the financial support of their families, fostering cultural exchange and mutual learning. A new program, similar to Canada’s Katimavik initiative, could prepare youth to serve as peacekeepers, border guards, and interpreters while equipping them with essential life skills. Participants could rotate through postings along various stretches of the border, gaining diverse experiences in regions like Quebec, the Prairies and British Columbia’s old-growth forests. Additionally, they might study languages such as Spanish, promoting cross-cultural understanding and enhancing North America’s ability to address complex challenges collaboratively.Integrating technology with peacekeeping could significantly enhance the effectiveness of border management. For instance, drones could efficiently monitor vast stretches of the border, offering unmatched surveillance capabilities and cost savings. Rather than deploy expensive RCMP and defence personnel to respond to every incident, peacekeepers trained in de-escalation and diplomacy could address potential conflicts. This approach would retain a critical human element, fostering goodwill while capitalizing upon technological innovation. In rare instances involving serious issues such as fentanyl smuggling, peacekeepers could work alongside highly trained police officers. As the world faces an increasingly uncertain future, with border conflicts leading to the deaths of millions of people in China, the Gaza Strip, Israel, Syria, Russia, Ukraine and possibly Taiwan, it is essential to innovate and collaborate. This combination of peacekeeping forces and advanced technology would convey a strong message about Canada and the United States’ shared commitment to diplomacy and mutual respect. It would also showcase Canada’s ability to adapt traditional peacekeeping principles to effectively address contemporary challenges. By implementing a thoughtfully designed peacekeeping initiative, based on the principles taught at what was known as the Lester B. Pearson Peacekeeping Training Centre before it was sadly closed by the Harper government, Canada and the United States could transform their shared boundary into a model of diplomacy, innovation and mutual respect. The Canada-U.S. border – already a global model of peaceful co-existence – has the potential to set a powerful precedent once again. Rather than spending decades and billions of dollars on unsustainable border management practices, investing in a peacekeeping force offers a more cost-effective, collaborative and forward-looking solution. In response to Russia’s invasion, we have the opportunity to forge new paths toward peace. Instead of waiting for hypothetical situations, such as a misguided attempt by president Donald Trump to annex the country, we can take pro-active step
Security Canada PEACEKEEPING TECHNOLOGY BORDER CANADA COOPERATION
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