Introductory discussion: What is peacekeeping?

Preparation

Review and adjust the amount of historical information to suit the needs and age of your students.

Become familiar with the subject matter using these resources:

• Web feature: CAF operations in Rwanda
• Historical sheet: The Canadian Armed Forces in Rwanda (PDF)
• Video: Canadian Armed Forces in Rwanda* (Veteran memories)

Warning

The video contains graphic content that may offend some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised. We do not recommend sharing this video with young student audiences.

What is peacekeeping?

Lead a brief discussion about peacekeeping by asking questions like:

• What does peacekeeping mean? 
• What do you think the differences are between a peacekeeping mission and a war?
• Can anyone think of places Canadians have served in peacekeeping missions?
• Do you know any members of the Canadian Armed Forces who served in peacekeeping missions?

Explain to students:

• Peacekeeping was “invented” after the First and Second World Wars. Tens of millions of people died during these conflicts. Afterwards, members of the international community increasingly looked for ways to prevent future conflicts.
• Canada played a key role in creating the concept of United Nations (UN) peacekeeping. Since the late-1940s, many Canadian Armed Forces members have deployed on peacekeeping missions. They have participated in UN, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and other multinational peace operations.
• Peacekeepers are neutral international troops. Their homeland sends them to countries in turmoil to help reduce tensions and restore peace. They play vital roles including:
• monitoring ceasefires
• patrolling buffer zones
• clearing landmines
• investigating war crimes
• helping refugees, and
• providing humanitarian aid.
• More than 125,000 CAF members have served in international peacekeeping efforts in dozens of countries. Approximately 130 of them have lost their lives. Many more of them have returned home with physical and psychological wounds.
• Other Canadians have taken part in these missions. They include diplomats, civilians, and thousands of Royal Canadian Mounted Police and other police force members.

You could also show one of these videos about peacekeeping:

• Record of service: Peacekeeping operations (Historica Canada)
• Remembrance moments: Canada’s role in peacekeeping (Veterans Affairs Canada)

Making a connection to Rwanda

Show the class this map of Canadian peacekeeping missions around the world. Find Rwanda and show how far it is from your community. Ask your class if they know someone who is from Rwanda or from that area of Africa.

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