Ministers of Veterans Affairs, National Defence, Foreign Affairs and Public Safety mark National Peacekeepers’ Day

Ottawa, ON – On National Peacekeepers’ Day, we reflect on the countless sacrifices that members of our military, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and over 30 Canadian partner police agencies have made while contributing to international peace and security. 

More than 125,000 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel, police officers,  and civilians including diplomats have served in support of peacekeeping efforts around the world since the establishment of the first United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission was established 75 years ago, in 1948.

Not long after that mission began, Canadian military observers took part in early peacekeeping efforts throughout South Asia and the Middle East. Later, Canadian troops were involved in the trailblazing peacekeeping mission that helped establish the UN Emergency Force in Egypt which prevented the Suez Canal Crisis from escalating into a global confrontation in 1956. Then Canadian Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and future Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Lester B. Pearson, would receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in devising the creative and effective form of conflict resolution.

Since then, Canadian peacekeepers have served in countries around the world including Cyprus, Egypt, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Golan Heights, the Balkans, Cambodia, Haiti, Rwanda, Central African Republic, Timor Leste, Kosovo, Sudan and Mali. Frequently intervening in situations of violence, they have been brokers of peace in times of crisis.

Approximately 130 CAF members and two RCMP officers have died during peace operations and many more have suffered physical and psychological wounds that can last a lifetime.

Canada’s long tradition of peacekeeping remains an important part of our country’s national identity.

On National Peacekeepers’ Day, we reflect on the countless sacrifices that members of our military, the RCMP and over 30 Canadian partner police agencies have made while contributing to international security operations.  

Quotes

“This year marks 75 years since the first UN peacekeeping mission began, and 35 years since UN peacekeeping forces received the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of their collective efforts in the cause of peace. Today, we say “thank you” to all those who put themselves in harm’s way while serving on missions around the world, bringing and maintaining peace and security to people in unstable parts of the world.”

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence

“I join Canadians in honouring the service and sacrifice of all Canadian Armed Forces members who have participated in UN peacekeeping operations. They have made important contributions to global security, and we are grateful for their outstanding efforts. Canada will continue to strengthen UN peacekeeping efforts, and to advance peace, stability, and security around the globe.”

The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence

“Canadian peacekeepers have a longstanding history of meaningful contributions to UN peacekeeping across the globe. Through various roles, they uphold the rule of law, protect civilians, defend human rights, and are building a more secure and stable world. Today, Canada honours their outstanding contributions and thanks them for their courage.”

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs

“Canadian police officers – whether from the RCMP or provincial, regional, municipal and Indigenous police services – are deployed to some of the world's most challenging areas to help maintain peace and security, and provide training and mentorship to police forces in the host nations. On National Peacekeepers’ Day, we pay tribute to these brave Canadians for their leadership and courage in the noble pursuit of a safer world.”

The Honourable Dominic Leblanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs

Associated Links:

Canada and International Peacekeeping
Peace support operations (1954-present)
RCMP Peace Operations
RCMP Our Stories
RCMP Current Operations
RCMP Partners