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Declaration of the United Nations
Canada is one of the 26 original Allied nations to sign the Declaration of the United Nations. This showed Canada’s participation in the unification of nations to fight against the Third Reich in WWII. The Third Reich was known for its cruel acts (i.e. concentration camps; execution) based off of discrimination. Canada fought against this. -
United Nations Charter
Canada signs the United Nations Charter in San Francisco. This charter outlines all members of the United Nations’ goal to save future generations from war (keep the peace), give equal rights to everyone, and to promote social progress and living standards. -
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Canada signs the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This shows Canada’s belief and promise to promoting the rights listed on the declaration to all people. -
North Atlantic Treaty Organization
Canada, along with 11 other countries, signs the North Atlantic Treaty in Washington, DC. Thusly, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is born (NATO). The organization calls for cooperation amongst its members (socially and economically). -
Korean War
Canada joins the Korean War in support of the United Nations. 25000 Canadians participate; over 300 die. -
Canadian International Development Agency
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Canada creates Canadian International Development Agency. The agency’s mandate is to “support sustainable development in developing countries… to reduce poverty and contribute to a more prosperous world”. The agency reports to Parliament, and is usually overseen by the Minister of International Cooperation. -
South Africa’s racist policies
Under the leadership of John Diefenbaker, when South Africa tries to renew its membership to the Commonwealth, Canada argues against. This is due to South Africa’s racist policies against its black majority. This shows Canada’s dedication to racial equality. -
Canada-United States Automotive Products Agreement
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson, Canada signs the Canada-United States Automotive Products Agreement (APTA). This agreement started free trade between Canada and the United States by removing tariffs on automobiles and automotive parts between the two countries. -
North American Free Trade Agreement
Under the leadership of Kim Campbell and Jean Chrétien, Canada signs the North American Free Trade Agreement. The agreement was also signed by Mexico and the United States. The agreement removed tariffs on certain goods and services between Canada, the United States, and Mexico. -
The Kyoto Protocol
Canada signs the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The agreement was made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, so as to control climate change, and create an ecologically sustainable future. In 2011, Canada withdrew from the Protocol. -
War on Terror
As a result of the terrorist attack on the twin towers, the United States and the United Kingdom created and lead the War on Terror. Canada participates in the mission, as do many other NATO and non-NATO countries. The campaign’s goal is to eliminate terrorist organizations such as Al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
