News release
November 8, 2002

Ottawa – The compromise resolution taking shape in the United Nations Security Council intends to provide Iraq a “final opportunity to comply with its disarmament obligations.” It may also provide the pretext for a wider war.

The outcome depends not only on whether the government of Iraq complies with the strict terms of the resolution, but also on whether Security Council members and others honour their undertaking to allow UN weapons inspectors a chance to finish their work.

Canada has stated that its decisions on Iraq depend on a UN mandate. Now that a Security Council consensus has crystallized, Canada should state clearly that: (1) Canada fully supports the renewed weapons inspection process, and (2) Canada opposes a wider war in Iraq.

(1) Yes to weapons inspections. There is broad agreement in the international community of the necessity to re-constitute an unrestricted UN weapons inspections and disarmament program. The current resolution provides for “an enhanced inspection regime.” At the insistence of France, Russia and China, the U.S. and UK have allowed for a process, which, in the event of Iraqi non-compliance, would require a further discussion at the Security Council before enforcement measures are taken. The determination as to whether Iraq is in compliance is in the hands UN inspectors, not unspecified member states. This should provide Iraq the minimal assurance that compliance with the resolution could prevent wider hostilities.

(2) No to war. The Security Council has not disclosed a bona fide threat to international peace and security emanating from Iraq which would warrant military intervention under the UN Charter’s Chapter Seven enforcement provisions.

The current resolution still contains numerous “hidden triggers” that could become a pretext for military intervention. And it threatens unspecified “serious consequences” if Iraq fails to comply.

Canada does not simply answer “Ready-aye-ready” when either the United States or the United Nations comes calling. Canada can be expected to assess the content and legality of this important resolution. Canada’s interest in a reliable framework of international law and multilateral institutions should outweigh other considerations. Canada should support weapons inspections and stay out of war in Iraq.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Fergus Watt,
Executive Director,
World Federalists of Canada
(613) 232-0647