Write a modified Briefing Note. (3 pages maximum) Evaluation of one of Canada’s terms on the UNSC (1948 – 1949; 1958-59; 1967-68 or 1977-1978)



MEMORANDUM NOTE DE SERVICE

Security Classification - Classification de sécurité

UNCLASSIFIED
Our file - Notre référence POLS 3521

Your File - Votre référence

Student Number

Date

Ultimately due ***


To:

A


Mr. Bob Rae

Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations


From:

De

Your Name here

Global Affairs Canada


Subject

Sujet


PURPOSE OR ISSUE

To evaluate Canada’s term on the UNSC from XXXXXX. Overall, the term was XXXXXXX (one sentence only.)

BACKGROUND

  • Who was Canada’s Ambassador and what other states (besides P5 were on the UNSC at the same time. Note, it will change ½ through Canada’s term

  • One sentence on the world order during the two years (e.g. was Cold War heating up? Had there been a recent major event like the Cuba Missile Crisis?)

CANADIAN INTERESTS and VALUES

  • Identify Canadian interests attained (if any) and by what means

  • Canadian values upheld/promoted and in what context


  • Allies supported? How and in what context?

MAJOR EVENT

  • Identify the key event during the term and Canada’s contribution to that event. (Was it to vote in particular way? Contribute troops? Do nothing? Perhaps we were a hindrance?) Outline the context and Canada’s actions in 2 - 3 paragraphs.

CONCLUSION and EVALUATION

  • What did Canada gain or lose by serving on the UNSC and what was the opinion of the Canadian public at the time?

  • What is one lesson learned which would be helpful for Mr. Rae serving at the UN today?


Essential hints

Remember, you are always NONPARTISAN



The majority of your sources should be PRIMARY sources (e.g. GAC, UNSC website). Other souces include secondary sources (International Journal, books on Canada and the UNSC) Tertiary sources (news articles – use with care).


Normally, one doesn’t cite in a briefing note but you must! Use Chicago or and cite all facts and ideas that are not yours.


Think tanks like The Security Council Report will be helpful. See https://www.securitycouncilreport.org/


3 pages MAXIMUM.