The 2003 Iraq War: A Challenge to the United States-Canadian Relation
In this research paper, I will look at the Canadian perspective on the war in Iraq. I want to show that Canada’s refusal to participate in the war on Iraq along with the United States (U.S.) did not have important diplomatic or economical impact on the partnership between both countries. Although it was a very surprising decision, the U.S. and Canada are still close since they still have good relations and their economies are interdependent. To show that there were no consequences in the long-run on the relation between both countries, the U.S.’ rationales and the Canadian arguments will be examined. Then, the diplomatic and economical consequences of the decision will be analysed. The decision made by the President of the U.S., George W. Bush, to send more troops in Iraq has even made the war on Iraq more controversial; on January 27 2007, a few days after it was announced in the State of the Union, there were demonstrations in Washington. The Canadian perspective on the war in Iraq has not really been looked at because most researchers have chosen to focus on the war itself.
THESIS STATEMENT: By analysing Canada’s decision not to participate in a U.S.-led war against Iraq, I will demonstrate that this decision had no diplomatic or economical impact in the long-run on the partnership between both countries through the examination of official statements issued by the Canadian government of the time and of scholarly articles.
I. Canada’s refusal to participate in a United States-led war against Iraq
A. U.S.’ rationales to justify the war in Iraq and their need for help
1. Weapons of mass destruction
2. Safe-haven for terrorists
3. The promotion of democracy and liberty
B. Canada’s arguments to justify its decision
1. No clear proof for American justifications
2. Approval of the United Nations
II. Impacts of Canada’s decision not to participate in a United States-led war against Iraq
A. Diplomatic consequences
1. Exclusion of Canada on United States’ list of helpers after 9/11
2. Cancellation of Bush’s visit to Canada in May 2003
B. Economical consequences
1. Canadian jobs at risk
2. Contracts for Iraq reconstruction
3. Canadian business community affected
C. Discussion of diplomatic and economical consequences
