International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace

International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace

International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace seeks to emphasize the importance of international collaboration for maintaining global peace. It serves as a platform to acknowledge the use of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and, consequently, cultivating conditions for lasting peace. The day also imparts the message of working together beyond borders, promoting international rules and laws while consolidating political multilateralism. This goal involves making the globe secure and inclusive, fostering global solidarity, and ensuring human rights.

From a Canadian perspective, International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace holds significant relevance. Established by the United Nations General Assembly's resolution in December 2018, the day affirms Canada's long-standing commitment to working collaboratively on critical global issues such as climate change, human rights, inequality, and international security. It resonates with Canada's well-established tradition of international diplomacy, peacekeeping efforts, and active participation in numerous international forums like the UN, NATO, and G20.

In Canada, International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is acknowledged primarily through various forms of public engagement and educational programs which emphasis on the importance and relevance of international cooperation, diplomacy, and peace-building mechanisms. Across the nation, diplomatic institutions, academic bodies, and non-governmental organizations hold talks, seminars, and webinars to promote the message of peace and collective action. International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is held on April 24 each year, highlighting Canada's international efforts and commitment to uphold multilateral diplomacy ensuring a peaceful and secure world.

Facts about this day

• The use of multilateral treaties allows three or more sovereign states to agree to certain policies or guidelines. Some of these treaties include the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and the Geneva Conventions.
• Various events, discussions, and activities are organized by member states, UN agencies, and civil society organizations on this day, driving global attention towards the importance of multilateralism and diplomacy in promoting peace and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Canada has been an active participant in various diplomatic forums like the G7, G20, NATO and the Commonwealth which require multilateral cooperation and decision-making.
• Since 1947, Canada has contributed to over 35 UN peacekeeping missions. It was during the Suez Canal Crisis in 1956 when Lester B. Pearson, the then Foreign Minister of Canada, proposed the idea of peacekeeping; a role for which he was later awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• Check and see whether your home country has accepted the jurisdiction of the UN's International Court of Justice.
• Learn more about the UN's Mediation Support Unit and how they work to achieve sustainable peace.
• Visit the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): This world-renowned museum in Toronto promotes understanding, appreciation, and respect for the world's cultural and natural heritage.
• Read a book to learn more about Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace in Canada:
  1) Multilateral Diplomacy and International Law - by Armand De Mestral
  2) The Oxford Handbook of Modern Diplomacy - by Andrew F. Cooper, Jorge Heine, Ramesh Thakur