Peace Professionalism - Now is the Time

Presented by Gordon Breedyk

About the session:

Like doctors, lawyers, engineers and soldiers, peace workers must be assessed and accredited for competence and professionalism before being assigned to areas of conflict. Thousands of organizations are doing excellent work in training and research for viable alternatives to military responses to conflict. CPSC has developed a standardized methodology for accrediting “peace professionals” through assessment of Core Values and Key Competencies. Through accreditation, CPSC will raise the credibility of peace workers; provide credible resources for placement organizations dealing with emergency situations; increase and enhance the success of peace initiatives; reduce the risk of having well-meaning, but uncertified peace workers bringing harm to themselves or others in situations of conflict; and institutionalize the methodology.

Presenter Bio:

Gordon Breedyk’s career includes a diverse background in the public and private sectors both in Canada and internationally. Gord holds an Executive MBA from Queens University, an MES (Masters in Environmental Studies) from York University, a Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution from the Canadian International Institute of Applied Negotiation (CIIAN). Gord’s international experience includes assignments in Ghana, Thailand, Mongolia, Kosovo, Ukraine and Sri Lanka. Since retirement in 2003, Gord has focused his efforts on establishment of the Civilian Peace Service Canada (CPSC), raising funds for an orphanage and health charity in Mufindi Tanzania and entertaining seniors and others through participation in his band called the Grateful We’re Not Dead (which also raises funds for various charities in the Ottawa area).