Recap — A Discussion on Conflict, Humanitarianism, and the Call for a Canadian Peace Museum, with Chris Houston

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Published on October 22, 2024

On October 2, 2024, Dahdaleh community fellow Chris Houston delved into the complexities surrounding war, humanitarianism, and peace. He began by highlighting the International Day of Peace, emphasizing the importance of peace as a fundamental human desire and the normal state of existence, despite the prevalence of conflict throughout history. Chris contrasts this with the realities of war and the rising number of conflicts globally [Source: Uppsala Conflict Data Program], citing data that shows an increase in both state-based and non-state conflicts.

He emphasized that war is both a driver of humanitarian crises and a barrier to effective humanitarian aid particularly in areas affected by ongoing violence such as Sudan and Palestine. The presentation underscored the disproportionate war and military spending compared to the minimal resources allocated to peace and humanitarian efforts. Chris provided a distinct comparison showing how global military expenditures far exceed investments in peace-building and aid.

Throughout the seminar, he draws on personal experiences from his time in Yemen, touching on the emotional and psychological toll of working in conflict zones, including his own struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He notes the devastating impact of war on civilians and humanitarian workers alike, emphasizing that local populations are most affected.

Chris also explored Canada's role in international peace efforts, referring to significant contributions such as the Ottawa Treaty on landmines and the Montreal Protocol on environmental protection. However, he acknowledges the country's complicated history, including its involvement in conflicts and colonial violence, while also advocating for a deeper focus on truth and reconciliation.

He concluded by discussing the concept of positive peace, which goes beyond the mere absence of war and involves building societies that promote justice, equity, and long-term stability. The presentation ultimately calls for a collective effort to foster peace through education, nuanced discussions, and the creation of institutions like peace museums, which can serve as platforms for advancing such goals.

Watch the seminar presentation below: https://youtu.be/nhnq6TcVdNg

Connect with Chris Houston, and learn more about the Canadian Peace Museum.

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