STATEMENT FROM THE PRESIDENT
Recently, a member of the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping
(CAVUNP), dressed in our blazer and crest, has been making political statements. As a Canadian citizen, and
especially one who has personally defended its values at home and overseas, he has a right to do so – it’s
enshrined in Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
However, he does not, and cannot, speak for CAVUNP or its members. Article 7 of our Articles of
Continuation (as a not-for-profit organization) clearly states: “This Association shall be non-political and nonsectarian.”
While we work with partners, including the Government of the day, to address shortcomings in
assistance to Veterans in need at every opportunity, we do so without reference to political considerations or
positions.
Further, our experience in failed and failing states has given our membership a special understanding of
and appreciation for democracy and the duty to vote. We do not restrict our members, as individuals apart from
CAVUNP, from talking to candidates and questioning them on policies of interest to them, and encourage them to
vote as they see fit on election day. As individuals, there are no restrictions in this regard; however, as CAVUNP
members, we do not engage in political activities or comments.
As an Association of retired and serving Canadian military (Regular and Reserve), RCMP and civilian
personnel who have served on United Nations Peacekeeping Missions, the Association also welcomes those who
have served on other peacekeeping missions in which participation was sanctioned by the Government of Canada.
Its purpose is to bring together as members, serving and retired peacekeepers and other veterans of Peace Support
Operations who embrace the goals of peacekeeping and the objectives of this Association. Its accomplishments
have been many, across the spectrum from local to international, and it does so quietly, generally without fanfare.
That the statements of one member have been misunderstood as a CAVUNP position is unfortunate. The
individual is expressing an ardently held personal view, and it does represent the Association, its purpose, its
objectives or its leadership and membership. Please respect both the rights of the individual and the non-political
status of CAVUNP.
Thank you,
Yours in the service of peace,
Wayne Mac Culloch, CD
National President