Why This Workshop, and Why Now?

Responding in Iraq: Mobilizing Our Community for Humanitarian Action University of Victoria, April 16, 2003

Brief opening remarks of Catherine Morris, Workshop Coordinator

Just about 27 days ago, bombs started to be dropped on Baghdad. A day or so before that, the idea for this workshop was conceived. Work began in earnest the day after the war started.

Why this information workshop? Public discourse in Canada has intensely been polarized pro or con the war. Much energy has been spent on a crucially important public discussion about the legitimacy of armed conflict. This discussion has been unprecedented in its global intensity. These debates are important, and must continue. However, this particular workshop was spawned by a concern that the polarized debate about the legitimacy of the war was immobilizing coordinated public action and advocacy on utterly urgent humanitarian action for the children and families of Iraq, who after all, are the ones most affected by the decisions and actions that have been taken.

I am hoping that by the end of today, all of us will be better informed and equipped to act more effectively in three areas:

  • First, urgent humanitarian action. What can we do as citizens, or academics or community leaders? And how should we do it in this context of armed conflict and in the context of the post-September 11 environment in Canada? Urgent planning and action is overdue. It is needed now.
  • Second, a better understanding about the responsibilities of governments in case of war. There is little public awareness of the principles of international humanitarian law (IHL) – of which the Geneva Conventions are the most famous. A basic understanding of IHL is important even to read the news with some discernment. Some of today’s presentations will help us know how to read, think and act more knowledgeably and effectively.
  • Third, I hope that the process of planning and conducting this workshop and built and will further build relationships and create networks among people and groups for constructive public dialogue and effective citizen advocacy in areas of humanitarian action, international humanitarian law, refugee issues, and -- very importantly -- constructive interfaith and intercultural dialogue in our own communities.
  • Finally, we will be conducting a needs assessment today to understand what kinds of follow-up might be useful. We hope you will take the time to complete the sheet that you should all receive. We hope you will benefit from this day.

    • All those co-sponsoring or participating in this workshop have contributed their time and in-kind resources on a voluntary basis.

    About Catherine Morris http://www.peacemakers.ca/leadership/Morris.html

    Back to the workshop webpage with some presentations online (watch the website for additions): http://www.peacemakers.ca/education/RespondingIraq.html