Canada's War Against Terror?

Whispering in the Wind (WITW 69) March 18, 2015

The gangs in Ottawa are presently debating a number of crucial issues: the waging of war in places like Iraq, Syria, Nigeria and Ukraine; the containment of terrorism and unlawful insurrection activities within Canada; and upholding the basic principles of democratic governance in Canada, at a time of great uncertainty.  In the end and after this year’s federal election, will Canadians view themselves as a pluralistic society or something else that is quite different?  And from an international perspective, will Canada be redefined as a nation?

A War Against Terrorism, or What?

The diabolical scourge publicized by extremist jihadist fighting groups (like the ISIS groups in Iraq, Syria, Libya; the Boko Haram group in Nigeria; the Al-Shaabab group in Somalia and others equally deranged) has got the so-called “civilized” world up in arms in fear and dismay.  Led by the United States, a coalition of some 40 nations is currently in battle against the ISIS terrorist movement in Iraq.  Canada’s role in this battle against ISIS will be reviewed in Ottawa over the next month or so and all indicators suggest that Canada’s military role will be increased and expanded.  From my perspective and as a Canadian, I feel three points must be stressed because of the current, shaky, fearful circumstances: 

First, the battle against extremism, specifically religious extremism needs a more cohesive political front in Canada and that means gaining and maintaining a level of understanding and consensus between the government and the opposition forces.  Prime Minister Harper has to keep in mind, the fight against terrorism is a national effort and not an initiative to win the next election.    

Second, much of the population’s fear of terrorism and other types of insurrection activities are being focused on specific cultural, religious groups – bridges must be built and a more trusting relationships must be established between government authorities with the leaders of cultural (religious) communities where radicalization appears to be initiated, fostered and ignited – the objective for government must be to ferret out radicalization and extremism, leaving the essence of community and faith unscarred. 

Third, the anti-terrorism initiative (Bill-51) being proposed by Stephen Harper’s government, has generated an extreme negative reaction from both security experts and political elder statesmen.  Four former prime ministers of Canada have condemned the proposed legislation and have asked to speak on the matter at committee – their request to be heard has been summarily rejected by Harper operatives.  Mr. Harper’s government appears undaunted and appears unwilling to consider the changes suggested by numerous security experts and the seasoned political minds of four who have experienced the governance of Canada.  From my perspective, Bill-51 as presented does have merit in light of current circumstances but two significant changes must be made, if Canada’s democratic institutions are to remain viable.  Mr. Harper has to establish a parliamentary review system that compliments the increased powers given to affected policing and spying authorities – parliament should review the anti-terrorism legislation every five years without prejudice.  As well, an all-party committee is required and necessary to monitor the ongoing operations of the implementing authorities.