Justice and human rights: Inspiring Canadian foreign policy
The New Democratic Party (NDP) has called for fundamental changes in national foreign policy priorities to reflect an unwavering commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes; a recognition in a world of global economic injustice of the imperative of redistribution of wealth and power; respect for the rights of women, indigenous peoples, and all minorities; and dedication to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment. The article presents a number of prescriptions. For example, since the United Nations is playing a more important role than ever, and given its financial difficulties, it should be given the ability to borrow funds internationally. In the post‐Cold War period, the article points out that Canada should take the lead in pushing for tighter controls on international arms sales, the creation of an international arms registry and, domestically, that it should create a Defence Conversion office. The NDP advocates a Canadian defence policy based on peacekeeping, the maintenance of sovereignty...