International Relations Commons^™

We Lost The Security Council Vote In 21 Seconds. Now What?, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The articles reflects on Canada's recent bid for a seat on the UN Security Council, highlighting Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's approach and the international community's response. It critiques Trudeau's diplomatic pause regarding U.S. President Donald Trump and argues that Canada's loss of the seat was due to perceived hesitation and lack of assertiveness on global issues like COVID-19, inclusion, and nuclear proliferation. The piece advocates for Canada to increase its international development aid, bolster peacekeeping efforts, and take a stronger stance on disarmament to enhance its global influence and reputation.

Kurds’ Plight A Result Of Failures All Around: An Elderly Mother’S Anguish Brings Home The Points About The Wisdom Of Canada’S Defence Spending, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article highlights the plight of the Kurds in Syria, exacerbated by Turkey's military offensive and the broader geopolitical failures surrounding the conflict. It criticizes the U.S. withdrawal from Syria, which enabled Turkey's attack on the Kurdish forces, formerly allies against ISIS. The article argues that NATO's inability to respond effectively due to its consensus rules has allowed potential genocide and ethnic cleansing by Turkey. It also critiques Canada's response, emphasizing the need for better investment in defense capabilities and peace support missions. The piece underscores the broader implications of these failures on international law and human rights, calling for …

A Deal With No Peace: Us-Taliban Deal Will Not By Itself Bring About Civilians’ Hope For An End To Afghanistan’S Long-Running War, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article examines the recent U.S.-Taliban agreement reached in Doha, which aims to initiate a phased withdrawal of American and NATO troops from Afghanistan and pave the way for peace negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghan government. Despite the historic nature of the agreement, there are significant concerns about its effectiveness in ending the long-running conflict. The Taliban have stated they will continue their fight against the Afghan government, raising doubts about lasting peace. The article highlights the geopolitical motivations behind the agreement, including the upcoming U.S. elections and Afghan general elections. It also discusses the historical context of …

Children Caught In A ‘Net: As Online Threats To Children Multiply, Challenges For Parents Increase, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article emphasizes that simple software and blocking methods can give parents a false sense of security online, as children can easily bypass these measures. Instead, it advocates for open communication and active digital supervision by caregivers.

It calls for increased efforts from law enforcement and anti-abuse groups to monitor dark web activities and combat pedophilia. Despite legitimate uses, the majority of traffic on hidden internet services involves child abuse materials.

The need for more research is highlighted to understand offender trends and the dynamics of child victimization. This includes studying relationships between victims and their abusers.

To The Moral High Ground: Canada Has Little Hope Of A Seat On The Un Security Council Unless Its Record On Arms Sales, Peacekeeping And International Development Improves, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article discusses Canada's candidacy for a UN Security Council seat amid challenges and criticisms regarding its international contributions. It highlights Canada's efforts in peacekeeping and development aid, contrasting them with countries like Ireland and Norway. Issues such as arms exports to Saudi Arabia and Canada's stance on nuclear disarmament treaties are also scrutinized. The article suggests that Canada's election outcomes and foreign policy decisions will significantly impact its chances at the UN.

A New York State Of Infrastructure: Stuck In Traffic During Last Saturday’S Blackout, Erika Simpson Ponders Vulnerable Infrastructure, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article recounts a chaotic evening in New York City during a widespread blackout affecting lower west Manhattan. As thousands were stranded in darkness due to an electrical failure, initially thought to be caused by a fire in a manhole, concerns about infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness were heightened. The incident underscored the vulnerability of urban electrical grids, prompting reflections on the city's readiness for emergencies like terrorist attacks and climate-related disruptions. Despite disruptions to Broadway and other events, the city showed resilience, highlighting the importance of robust infrastructure and emergency planning in urban centers.

A Treaty Under A Cloud: Diplomats And National Leaders Are Failing The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article discusses contemporary challenges and debates surrounding nuclear weapons, focusing on the actions and doctrines of the P5 countries (China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, United States). It critiques the P5's role in nuclear proliferation through modernization efforts and their impact on international disarmament efforts, particularly in the context of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). The article highlights tensions and geopolitical maneuvers involving nuclear arsenals, such as NATO's responses to Russian assertiveness and U.S. policy shifts under President Trump. It calls for renewed efforts in arms control and disarmament, urging reflection on the effectiveness and ethical implications of nuclear deterrence …

Blind Devotion To Nuclear Deterrence: Our Ancestors Left A Legacy Of Magnificent Cathedrals While We’Ll Leave Behind Nuclear Weapons, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article critiques the global obsession with nuclear deterrence, contrasting it sharply with the legacy of cultural and humanitarian achievements like the rebuilding of Notre Dame Cathedral. She highlights staggering global expenditures on nuclear weapons, emphasizing their astronomical costs and the inherent risks they pose to global security and environmental stability. Simpson argues against the rationale that nuclear weapons prevent conventional wars, suggesting instead that they endanger humanity through their potential for catastrophic misuse or accidental deployment. She questions the wisdom of placing nuclear authority solely in the hands of leaders like Trump, Putin, Xi Jinping, and Kim Jong-Un, emphasizing …

Snc’S Fate Could Affect Nuclear Security, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The fate of SNC-Lavalin, a major player in the nuclear engineering sector, hinges on its bid for a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) amidst allegations of fraud and corruption. Should SNC-Lavalin fail to secure a DPA and face conviction, it risks being barred from Canadian government contracts and jeopardizing ongoing projects with entities like Ontario Power Generation and Bruce Power. This could potentially lead to significant repercussions for the global nuclear industry, particularly in Canada, where nuclear projects such as reactor refurbishments at Bruce Power and Darlington are vital. The situation also highlights broader implications for nuclear security and waste management, …

Snc-Lavalin: Follow The (Big) Money, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In 2011, the Harper government sold Canada's CANDU nuclear reactor division to SNC-Lavalin for $15 million. This transaction and subsequent dealings have sparked controversy and scrutiny, particularly amidst recent allegations of corruption. SNC-Lavalin's lobbying efforts for a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) have raised concerns about potential impacts on major nuclear projects in Canada, including reactor refurbishments and the construction of a Deep Geologic Repository. The company's history of bribery charges, including a notable case involving Libya, and its role in various high-profile corruption scandals have intensified calls for increased transparency and accountability. The situation underscores the need for vigilance in …

Snc Lavalin Nuclear Contracts At Risk If It’S Convicted, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article explores the potential consequences facing SNC-Lavalin, a major player in Canada's nuclear industry, if it is convicted of fraud and corruption. The company's ability to bid on and fulfill billions of dollars worth of contracts with entities like Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) and various power producers hangs in the balance. Simpson highlights the intertwined relationships between SNC-Lavalin, Canadian government officials, and international nuclear projects, emphasizing the critical role of political decisions in shaping the future of nuclear development in Canada. The piece underscores broader implications for Ontario's energy sector and raises questions about the sustainability of …

Bad For U.S., Worse For Afghanistan, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The abstract summarizes recent developments in U.S. foreign policy concerning troop withdrawals from Afghanistan and Syria. It highlights the Senate and House of Representatives' bipartisan efforts to restrain President Trump's decisions, particularly on troop reductions, citing concerns over jeopardizing national security and hard-won gains. The resignation of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and subsequent leadership changes at the Pentagon underscore the chaotic aftermath of Trump's decisions. Concurrently, negotiations with the Taliban for a peace agreement in Afghanistan continue, challenging the Afghan government amid ongoing conflicts with both the Taliban and ISIS. The abstract concludes with calls for NATO allies, including Canada, …

Staking Out Higher Ground: Giving Asylum To A Saudi Woman On The Run Burnishes Trudeau’S Humanitarian And Feminist Credentials, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In the aftermath of granting asylum to Rahaf Mohammed Alqunun, a Saudi woman fleeing alleged abuse, Canada under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has positioned itself prominently on the global stage. This humanitarian gesture not only burnishes Trudeau’s credentials as a champion of women’s rights but also challenges Saudi Arabia’s policies, notably amidst international backlash over the Jamal Khashoggi case. Trudeau’s stance, leading up to the federal election and the Women Deliver conference, underscores Canada’s commitment to feminist foreign policy. However, it also raises questions about potential repercussions on bilateral relations, including economic ties such as the sale of light armoured …

New Arms Trade Treaty Will Change The Way Canada Does Business: The New International Arms Trade Treaty (Att) Requires Canada To Amend Its Export Regulations And Report All Sales Including To Unsavoury Regimes, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article discusses Canada's adherence to the new Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), emphasizing amendments to export regulations and the necessity to report all sales, including those to contentious regimes. It highlights the dilemma surrounding Canada's largest arms deal with Saudi Arabia for light armoured vehicles (LAVs), initiated under the Harper government and continued despite international scrutiny post-Khashoggi incident. Senators in Ottawa face the challenge of balancing economic interests with ethical considerations under Bill C-47, aiming to align Canadian policies with stringent ATT guidelines. The article underscores the pivotal role of oversight and transparency in shaping Canada's future arms trade policies …

Nuclear Jungle Closes In: Trump’S Intention To End The Intermediate Nuclear Forces Treaty Is Alarming, But It’S Not The Only Sign Of A Global Arms Race, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article discusses the alarming intention of U.S. President Donald Trump to withdraw from the Intermediate Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, signaling a new global arms race. This move, along with the abandonment of the nuclear agreement with Iran, marks a dangerous trend as both the U.S. and Russia, holding 95% of the world's nuclear arsenal, continue to modernize their nuclear weapons. The article highlights the potential proliferation of nuclear weapons among other countries like India, Pakistan, Israel, North Korea, and possibly Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Syria. The collapse of various arms control treaties, such as the Anti-Ballistic Missile …

Dissent, Daring – And Death, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article by Erika Simpson discusses the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which raises significant concerns about Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses and the broader implications for international relations. Khashoggi, who was critical of the Saudi regime, was killed while seeking papers for his marriage, with officials linked to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman implicated. The article reflects on the potential dangers faced by journalists and critics of authoritarian regimes. Simpson, who has written critically about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and Canada’s arms deals with the kingdom, highlights the ethical dilemma of prioritizing economic gains over human rights. …

Nato: New Headquarters, New Threats: An Academic Hears About New Threats Alongside Old From Officials At Nato’S New Headquarters, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article by Erika Simpson examines the atmosphere and discussions at NATO's new headquarters in Brussels, emphasizing the blend of old and new threats faced by the alliance. The impressive facility contrasts with the heightened sense of threat among NATO allies, particularly from Russia. Simpson highlights Poland's new bilateral arrangement with the U.S. and Canada's contribution to NATO's presence in Latvia. The article discusses the continued importance of nuclear deterrence and the complexities introduced by the UN's Nuclear Weapons Ban Treaty. Interviews with key NATO officials, including Jamie Shea and Guy B. Roberts, shed light on NATO's strategic considerations regarding …

The Prime Minister’S Dilemma: The Strategies For The Game Prisoner’S Dilemma Contain Useful Lessons For Those Playing The Diplomatic Game, Including Our Prime Minister, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In her analysis using game theory's Prisoner's Dilemma, Erika Simpson explores strategic lessons for diplomacy, focusing on the Tit for Tat (TFT) strategy. TFT, which starts with cooperation and responds in kind to the opponent's previous move, proves effective in fostering stable, long-term relations. Drawing parallels with Canada's interactions with Saudi Arabia and the U.S. under Trump, Simpson argues for diplomatic approaches emphasizing reciprocity, cooperation, measured retaliation, and forgiveness. These principles, derived from game theory, suggest that in navigating international relations, strategies promoting trust and stability can mitigate conflict and enhance mutual benefit over time.

Gloom And Doom In Europe: After The Trump-Disrupted Nato Summit, Erika Simpson Finds Our European Allies Disheartened And Fearful, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In her analysis following the disrupted NATO Summit under President Trump, Erika Simpson reflects on Europe's somber mood and strategic uncertainties. Attendees at a post-summit conference in Italy expressed frustration and concern over Trump's demands for increased defense spending from European allies. Simpson, the sole Canadian present, emphasized Canada's NATO contributions despite feeling overlooked in defense discussions focused on Europe's eastern and southern flanks. European officials, grappling with fears of Russian aggression and challenges like cyberwarfare and migrant crises, discussed plans to bolster military capabilities amid economic constraints and political upheavals within the EU. Simpson highlights Canada's steadfast NATO commitments …

Trump's Space Force Will Incite An Arms Race In Space, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In July 2018, Erika Simpson critiques President Trump's proposal for a "Space Force," arguing it could trigger a new arms race in space. Trump’s vision of space as a warfighting domain and his push for increased missile defense spending could exacerbate global tensions and undermine existing arms control regimes. The Trump administration’s Nuclear Posture Review highlights a focus on space-based threats, but details remain unclear. Simpson questions whether Canada should participate in U.S. missile defense and space militarization, emphasizing the risk of escalating an arms race with Russia and China. She advocates for maintaining space as a demilitarized zone and …

Up In Arms: The Arms Trade Is Wreaking Havoc Around The Globe, And Canada Is Part Of It, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In her article, Erika Simpson critiques the global arms trade, highlighting its detrimental impact on global stability and human rights. She points out Canada's significant role as a major arms exporter, particularly noting the controversial sale of light armoured vehicles to Saudi Arabia amid concerns over human rights abuses in Yemen. Simpson draws parallels between the arms trade and historical injustices like the slave trade, arguing that the proliferation of weapons exacerbates conflicts and human suffering worldwide. She calls for more stringent adherence to international treaties, such as the Arms Trade Treaty, to regulate and curb the flow of weapons, …

Safety, Not Salary: The Security Of Ontario’S Nuclear Plants Should Be An Election Priority, Not The Salaries Of Top Hydro One Execs, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In her analysis of Ontario's energy landscape, Erika Simpson discusses the implications of potential nuclear accidents, focusing on the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station. She highlights concerns over safety, citing the station's proximity to densely populated areas and the potential consequences of a Fukushima-type disaster. Simpson underscores the economic and social costs projected in the event of a nuclear accident, including massive evacuations, health impacts, and property losses. She contrasts nuclear energy's risks with the potential benefits of transitioning to hydroelectricity from Quebec, emphasizing cost savings and environmental considerations. Simpson's assessment calls for heightened scrutiny of Ontario's nuclear facilities and proposes …

Putin And Trilateral Economic Cooperation Between Moscow, Seoul, And Pyongyang: Motivation, Feasibility, And Korean Peace Process, Seung-Ho Joo, Yune Lee

Political Science Publications

Since 2000, President Vladimir Putin of Russia has persistently pushed for trilateral economic projects involving Moscow, Seoul, and Pyongyang, especially in the fields of energy (oil, gas, and electricity) and transportation (railroad). The Kremlin has long maintained that its proposed trilateral projects would not only be economically beneficial to all but also pave the road to inter-Korean reconciliation and peaceful unification. This article addresses three questions regarding Putin’s trilateral economic projects. What motivates Russia to push for the projects? Would they bring benefits to the three countries? Would they facilitate Korean peace process? The authors argue that Putin’s trilateral economic …

Totally Fluent In What It Meant To Be A Professor: Remembering Bob Young, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article by Erika Simpson commemorates the life and career of Robert Young, a prominent political science professor at Western University. Young, who passed away on August 15 due to lymphoma, was celebrated for his dedication to scholarship, public policy, and federalism. A Rhodes Scholar, he was known for his extensive work on multilevel governance, secession, and federal-municipal relations. He received numerous accolades, including the Canada Research Chair and the Hellmuth Prize. Young was admired for his mentorship, succinct writing, and contributions to social science research. His memorial highlighted his profound impact on colleagues, students, and the academic community.

How Canada Can Support Un Peacekeeping, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In August 2016, the Canadian government pledged up to 600 soldiers, 150 police officers, and $450 million over three years for UN peace operations. To enhance its peacekeeping role, Canada should focus on training and security sector reform in Afghanistan, jump-start a UN Emergency Peace Service (UNEPS), and re-establish the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre. Re-engaging in Afghanistan would demonstrate Canada's commitment to peacekeeping and NATO, despite the risks and past challenges. UNEPS, proposed to address rapid response gaps, and a revitalized Pearson Peacekeeping Centre would bolster Canada's peacekeeping capabilities and international standing. This approach aligns with Canada's historical peacekeeping legacy and …

Time To Dismantle Nuclear Weapons, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In the article "Time to dismantle nuclear weapons," Erika Simpson discusses the heightened tensions between North Korea and the United States, especially under President Donald Trump's administration. She emphasizes the catastrophic global consequences of even a limited nuclear war and critiques the reliance on nuclear deterrence. Simpson calls for a renewed focus on diplomatic efforts, including strengthening the nuclear non-proliferation regime, reviving the UN Conference on Disarmament, and advancing treaties like the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. She urges non-nuclear countries, including Canada, to push for the stigmatization of nuclear deterrence and for comprehensive strategies involving economic …

Where Was Canada? Our Country Was Missing When More Than 100 Nations Drew Up And Voted For A Treaty To Ban Nuclear Weapons, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In July 2017, the United Nations adopted a historic treaty to ban nuclear weapons, with 122 countries voting in favor. However, none of the nuclear-armed states, including the U.S. and Russia, participated. The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons emerged from a series of international conferences aimed at highlighting the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapon use. Canada, aligning with the U.S., chose not to participate, drawing criticism from non-nuclear states. This stance contrasts with Canada’s past actions during the Cold War when it unilaterally disarmed its nuclear arsenal. The long-standing Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) has seen limited success …

A Mission To Mali Is Already A Lost Opportunity, So Let’S Focus On Afghanistan’S ‘Forgotten War, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

Erika Simpson and Sakhi Naimpoor argue that Canada's defense efforts should shift focus from a UN peacekeeping mission in Mali to revitalizing its role in Afghanistan. They criticize the Canadian government for delaying its commitment to Mali and suggest that Canada should instead concentrate on training Afghan soldiers and police to ensure stability in a war-torn country. They highlight the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, with the Taliban and ISIS gaining ground since Canada's combat mission ended. The authors contend that re-engaging in Afghanistan would honor the sacrifices made by Canadian forces and help rebuild critical institutions in the region.

The Question Queue: The Federal Government Wants To Know So Much More About A Proposed Nuclear Waste Site Near Lake Huron, It Seems It Will Never Get The Ok, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

Ontario Power Generation’s proposal for a deep geologic repository (DGR) to store nuclear waste near Lake Huron faces significant scrutiny from the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency. The agency has demanded detailed responses from OPG regarding alternative sites, potential environmental impacts, and construction effects. Questions include concerns about emissions, seismic regulations, and the impact on indigenous communities and local ecosystems. The agency also requires more comprehensive risk assessments for various scenarios, including accidents and environmental degradation. The approval process is complicated by these extensive requirements, potentially delaying the project beyond upcoming federal and provincial elections.

Ontario Power Generation's Latest Report On Its Proposed Nuclear Waste Chamber Near Lake Huron Focuses On Science And Geology, Which Leaves A Lot Of Issues Unaddressed, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

Ontario Power Generation’s proposal for an underground nuclear waste repository near Lake Huron has faced criticism for focusing primarily on geological and technical aspects while neglecting key issues. The recent report does not address potential risks related to transporting nuclear waste, including security and environmental impacts, nor does it adequately consider Indigenous land rights or emergency preparedness. It also overlooks long-term challenges, such as the durability of containment and the impact of potential natural disasters. With substantial public opposition and international concerns, there is a call for a more comprehensive and transparent evaluation process involving independent analysis and broader stakeholder …