International Day of Neutrality

International Day of Neutrality History

The International Day of Neutrality is a United Nations sanctioned observance, a global initiative devoted to promoting neutrality as a valuable means of decreasing conflicts and fostering peaceful coexistence among nations. This day underscores the significance of neutrality in the pursuit of peace and security in the international community. The principle itself prevents countries from being involved in armed conflicts, creating a platform for fair diplomatic communication, and protecting human rights. As part of this global community, Canadians play a significant role in promoting and observing this day.

The observance has its roots in 2017 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution introduced by Turkmenistan, recognizing neutrality's crucial role in maintaining and promoting peace, security, and development. For Canadians, the International Day of Neutrality holds significance as it aligns with Canada's long-standing global principle of peaceful diplomacy. Given the country's consistent commitment to peacekeeping operations, humanitarian aid, and rights protection globally, the day serves as an appropriate platform to reflect on Canada's impartial role in world affairs and reinforces its peacekeeping heritage.

In Canada, the International Day of Neutrality is observed through various educational events and seminars to raise public awareness about the importance and value of neutrality in preserving international peace and security. Canadians use this day to engage in thoughtful discussions that reinforce the nation's commitment to global peace and the principles of neutrality. As for when this observance takes place, the International Day of Neutrality is annually commemorated on December 12, a date set by the United Nations.

Facts about International Day of Neutrality

• The U.N’s policy of neutrality is based on their tools of preventive diplomacy. According to the U.N, preventive diplomacy includes: early warning and prevention of conflict, mediation, good offices, fact-finding missions, negotiation, the use of special envoys, informal consultations, peacebuilding and targeted development activities.
• Neutrality is defined by the U.N as, the legal status arising from the abstention of a state from all participation in a war between other states, the maintenance of an attitude of impartiality toward the belligerents, and the recognition by the belligerents of this abstention and impartiality.
• History has its share of violating the international neutrality pact. For example, during World War II, Belgium's neutrality was violated when it was invaded by Germany.
• Canada often practices multilateral diplomacy and participates in international organizations, such as the World Trade Organization, the World Health Organization, and the World Bank. Canada is also a significant aid donor, using its neutral status to provide assistance to developing countries and conflict-affected nations.
• Canada was one of the founding members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1949. Despite its commitment to neutrality, Canada's involvement in NATO demonstrates its recognition of the importance of collective security and cooperation with its allies.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day of Neutrality

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• As of 2020, the U.N has 13 ongoing peacekeeping operations in countries like Mali and India. Learn more about the U.N’s peacekeeping strategies and how you can help maintain neutrality at What Is Peacekeeping?
• Explore a historical timeline to learn more about the U.N's record of peacekeeping. Learn more at Timeline of UN Peacekeeping.
• Collaborate with local peace organizations or NGOs to organize joint events or initiatives that promote neutrality, peace, and conflict resolution.
• Start a social media campaign using hashtags like #NeutralityDay or #PeacefulCanada, sharing facts, quotes, and stories related to neutrality, and encouraging people to promote peaceful resolutions to conflicts.