Never Again is Again: Stand Up Against Genocide in Africa

Canada is not a military giant. In fact, with most of its force otherwise disposed in Afghanistan, Canada is unable to participate militarily, in the foreseeable future, in terms of sending troops (Dr. Jane Boulden, Royal Military College). It is therefore likely that Canada’s role—should it choose to play a role—will be to act as a catalyst, and to provide leadership. Canada should be commended for the role that it has played in the development of R2P, but for all of our talk and leadership, few risky steps have been taken towards addressing the conflict in Darfur.

If Canada can’t intervene, what is to be done? One option that has been discussed among the international community is a no-fly zone over Darfur. Many attacks on Darfuri civilians come from helicopters, and this would significantly hinder the ability of the militias and government to target innocent civilians. Leaders in the UK especially have discussed this as an option for action.

There are some non-military options as well. Canada is able to encourage and then legislate divestment from companies involved in the Darfur region, or in Sudan more generally. For one country to divest may not be significant; indeed, there are other countries able to pick up what Canada has divested. If Canada were to take leadership in encouraging other middle powers to divest, however, the results could be much more significant. Remember, divestment from South African played a prominent role in the fall of apartheid. Sudan HAS responded to pressure in the past. Recall when the government forced Osama bin Laden out of the country under pressure from the United States and Saudi Arabia.

The Canadian government CAN play a role, be it a multilateral or leadership role. To do so, however, Canada has to have a position, and must explicitly declare that the situation in Darfur is unacceptable. Canadian citizens can get involved by writing to MPs (more info on this coming soon), and in exploring divestment options as individuals and as members of universities or corporations. Queen’s University recently divested its investments in Chinese oil companies operating in Sudan over Darfur. See articles here and here. Just one example of what can happen when people gather together in support of humanity.

- sara