Amid recent global changes, should Canada continue to endorse a balanced ‘three pillar’ approach to its foreign policy objectives, or should the current balance be adjusted?
Peaceworks prefers that the three pillars of foreign policy be:
Human Rights
Sustainable Development/environmental preservation
Demilitarization
The human rights of individuals are routinely placed in jeopardy by military activity. Active warfare destroys the civic structures which protect the basic rights of people. Increased militarism drains resources and funding which would be better spent for social and economic development. Sustainable development in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa should be a priority for our foreign aid dollars. A strong health-care delivery system and adequate education would go a long way towards combatting the spread of HIV/AIDS, malaria and other viruses.