23 Times Canada Took the High Road—And Still Came Out Ahead

Canada is marked by its diplomatic governance and commitment to global peace. Many times, it has taken the high road, advocating for fair and just measures, both locally and at the international stage. Whether mediating tense situations or supporting its domestic population with government initiatives, it has often led with integrity and come out ahead. Here are 26 times Canada took the high road and still came ahead.

Refusing to Join the Iraq War

In 2003, Canada refused to join the Iraq War, declining to participate in the U.S.-led invasion. Despite pressure from all its allies, Canada took no military action without UN endorsement, reflecting its commitment to multilateralism and international law.

Welcoming Draft Dodgers During the Vietnam War

During the Vietnam War, Canada welcomed up to 40,000 American draft dodgers escaping conscription during the Vietnam War. Instead of recognizing them as immigrants, the Canadian government recognized them as refugees, integrating them into society. Many of them would go on to enhance the society and make significant contributions.

Apologizing for the Residential School System (2008)

An apology sometimes works wonders, and Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s formal apology in 2008 did so. On behalf of the Canadian government for the Indian Residential School system, he acknowledged the suffering inflicted on the indigenous community. This apology paved the way for reconciliation and allowed Canada to confront its colonial past.

Peacekeeping in Cyprus

Since 1964, Canada has been crucial in the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP). Preventive military action and troop deployment have been instrumental in maintaining stability between Greek and Turkish Cypriots.

Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage

In 2005, Canada legalized same-sex marriage by enhancing the Civil Marriage Act. With this, it became one of the few countries that uphold equal rights for all, including the LGBTQ+ community. The move positioned Canada as a progressive leader on the international stage.

Opposing Apartheid in South Africa

In the 1980s, Canada took the high road and put its foot down against Apartheid in South Africa. It implemented economic sanctions and advocated for international pressure to dismantle the racist regime. These actions demonstrated their commitment to equality and fundamental human rights.

Leading the Charge on Landmine Bans

In 1997, Canada took the high road by hosting the Ottawa Treaty, also known as the Mine Ban Treaty. This treaty aimed to eliminate the use of anti-personnel landmines worldwide, showcasing its dedication to disarmament. A great example of Canada’s humanitarian cause, it brought together 122 countries to sign the treaty.

Peacekeeping Legacy

Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson proved the world’s largest peacekeeping force during the Suez Crisis of 1956. He earned a Nobel Peace Prize for this and showed how Canada’s high-road diplomacy was effective. Canada did not pick sides in a tense standoff to accelerate the matter but handled it with mediation.

Universal Healthcare

Since the 1960s, Canada’s universal healthcare system has ensured all citizens have access to medical services. Regardless of their financial condition, Canada aims to help all its citizens and promote better health outcomes. This healthcare system has become a model for effective healthcare policy for other countries.

Protecting the Great Bear Rainforest

The Great Bear Rainforest is the largest rainforest on British Columbia’s coast, covering approximately 6.4 million hectares. In 2016, Canada finalized an agreement to protect 85% of this pristine ecosystem from industrial logging. This involved collaborations between the provincial government, indigenous communities, and other environmentalist groups.

Banking Regulations

The Bank of Canada has always been strong and resilient, largely due to stringent regulations. During the 2008 global financial crisis, the banks were well-capitalized and avoided exposure to high-risk mortgage-backed securities. With strict lending policies and calculated risks, they survived the crisis with ease.

Negotiating the USMCA

In 2018, Canada successfully negotiated the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), replacing NAFTA. Canada took the high road and maintained a strong position to protect industries like dairy and the automotive industry. This led to the agreement preserving critical elements of these industries, eventually boosting the Canadian economy.

Iran Hostage Crisis

During the Iranian Hostage Crisis of 1979, Canada played a risky yet key role in rescuing six American diplomats. Canadian Ambassador Ken Taylor executed the rescue, facilitating their escape using Canadian passports. This strengthened Canada-US relations and gained international acclaim.

Marathon of Hope

Terry Fox, a Canadian, touched the hearts of everyone in 1980 with his Marathon of Hope. On his mission to raise funds for cancer research, he covered 5,373 kilometers over 143 days, eventually losing his leg to osteosarcoma. This Canadian’s selflessness and determination inspired the whole nation, raising over $800 million for cancer research.

Legalizing Cannabis

In 2018, Canada legalized Cannabis and became the first nation among the G7 to do so. The Cannabis Act aimed to regulate and control the production, distribution, and consumption of cannabis. This would eventually reduce illegal market activity and ensure public health and safety.

Hosting the 1976 Montreal Olympics

The 1976 Montreal Olympics were infamous for many financial risks. However, Canada took the high road and upheld the sportsman spirit, hosting the Olympic Games for the first time. Despite challenges, Canada still came out ahead.

Championing Women’s Rights

Canada has been vocal about women’s rights and gender equality, gaining international recognition. The Feminist International Assistance Policy, introduced in 2017, empowers women. By integrating gender equality into its diplomatic and development efforts, Canada has taken the high road and come out ahead.

Standing Against Anti-LGBTQ+

Canada supports equality for all and supports the LGBTQ+ community, advocating for gender equality. It stands against anti-LGBTQ+ laws like those passed in Uganda in 2014. To this day, Canada strongly condemns Uganda’s legislation about criminalizing homosexuality with harsh penalties.

Mediating in the India-Pakistan Conflict

Canada has played a neutral and diplomatic role in mitigating tensions between India and Pakistan. The India-Pakistan issue since the Partition in 1947 has been brutal, with states like Kashmir becoming a primary reason for conflict. Canada has participated in peacekeeping efforts, facilitated dialogues, and provided humanitarian aid.

Protecting Saudi Women’s Rights Activists

With its commitment to protect women’s rights globally, Canada has been protecting Saudi women’s rights activists. Women like Rahaf Mohammed, who fled Saudi due to oppression, are granted asylum by the Canadian government. While this decision strained ties, Canada prioritized humanitarian principles over political expediency.

Banning Single-Use Plastics

Canada is crucial in fighting plastic pollution, aligning with global sustainability goals. Starting in 2021, it announced a nationwide ban on single-use plastics, including plastic bags, straws, and cutlery. The ban aims to reduce plastic waste in oceans and landfills and encourage people to use safer alternatives like paper.

Supporting Ukraine

Canada has always been a key ally of Ukraine, whether it was during the 2014 aggression by Russia or the 2022 one. It has provided military aid, imposed sanctions on Russia, and welcomed Ukrainian refugees. Canada’s leadership in the G7 and NATO has strengthened international resistance against Russian aggression.

MAID (Medical Assistance in Dying) Law

Canada legalized Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) Law in 2016, which allows terminally ill patients to seek physician-assisted death. This law was introduced with strict guidelines to prevent any mishaps or exploitations.  This law marked a progressive shift in end-of-life care, reducing the suffering of individuals.

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