Taking Care of Business: Canada’s Forgotten Cold War Conflict in Cyprus, July-August, 1974

Authors

  • David A. Kielstra University of Waterloo

Abstract

Canada’s response to the Cyprus crisis of 1974 represents a little known event in Canadian Cold War peacekeeping history. Following a coup on the island, two NATO allies were on the verge of war while the United Nation’s Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) wrestled to deal with the unfolding crisis. This paper places the experiences of Canada’s contingent in UNFICYP alongside Canada’s domestic response for a holistic assessment of Canada’s Cyprus actions. Unique material including veteran interviews, diplomatic documents, and UN radio logs also provide a more personal narrative. It was determined that the more robust form of peacekeeping practiced in Cyprus was a key measure to prevent further violence. Canada’s decision to dramatically bolster its UNFICYP presence through reinforcements and heavy weaponry also challenges the long-held assumption of a Trudeau-era withdrawal from international commitments. The Cyprus crisis clearly represents an assertive step forward for Canadian peacemaking on the world stage during the Cold War.

Author Biography

David A. Kielstra, University of Waterloo

David A. Kielstra is a recent graduate of the University of Waterloo where he completed his M.A in History under the supervision of Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer. David’s final M.A Research Paper (M.R.P), “NATO’s Thorn, Canada’s Opportunity: Canadian Cold War Diplomacy and Peacekeeping in Cyprus, 1964-1974” explored Canada’s role in confronting the instability of the Cyprus crisis. This current study forms the core for his more expansive M.A study completed on the topic. More generally, David’s other research interests include Canadian military history post-1914, NATO and Cold War diplomacy, the application of counter-insurgency doctrines, as well as issues related to post-conflict resolution and reconstruction.

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Issue

Vol. 12 No. 1 (2009): Fall 2009

Section

Articles