Hub Podcasts The watering down of the term genocide
May 22, 2025
Alan Kessel, a former Canadian deputy high commissioner to the UK and a senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, discusses the misuse of the term 'genocide' in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He argues against labeling Israel's actions as genocide while drawing parallels with the Ukraine conflict. Kessel also examines Canada's nuanced relationship with Israel, highlighting the divide between public service and political leadership views. Additionally, he addresses the rise of anti-Semitism in Canada and the importance of national identity in combating hate.
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Misuse of 'Genocide' Term
- The term 'genocide' is being watered down and misapplied to Israel's actions.
- Genocide requires intent to destroy, which is seen in Hamas, not Israel.
Israel and Ukraine Defend Western Values
- Israel and Ukraine fight on behalf of the West against vile dictatorships and terrorist groups.
- Appeasing them risks spreading conflict to Europe and beyond.
Canadian Foreign Service's Israel View
- Canada's foreign service leans more Arabist due to ideological trends but retains professionalism.
- The government must embrace values supporting Israel as a key democratic ally.