The illusion of stability has been shattered, revealing a world where authoritarian aggression and technological disruption threaten the very foundations of Canada’s security, prosperity, and global standing. Re-elected Prime Minister Mark Carney faces the imperative of rethinking Canada’s defence, alliances, and influence. Half-measures are no longer an option; bold investments in national security, international partnerships, and soft power are essential. Here’s his plan:
Government must modernize the military, recognizing that modern warfare extends beyond firepower to encompass data, drones, and battlefield innovation. The armed forces need new equipment and a national strategy for drones, AI, and real-time surveillance. Drone warfare should be a core military capacity, developed through partnerships with Canadian industry and allied nations. As the next wars will be fought with algorithms, our security depends on leveraging these new technologies.
Canada’s diplomatic footprint must expand, reversing the decline in global presence. New embassies, more diplomats, and more regional experts are needed, especially in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. A new generation of envoys must be comfortable navigating both TikTok and AI forums, as well as negotiating trade and security agreements. More people on the ground are needed to engage with allies, counter disinformation, and build coalitions that advance democratic norms and economic co-operation.
To enhance soft power and strategic influence, Canada must become a global hub for strategic thinking. A dedicated fund should support think tanks working on security, democracy, human rights, and digital threats, while incentives should be offered for top-tier allied think tanks to establish themselves in Canada. A robust intellectual ecosystem is vital for crafting foreign policy rooted in long-term democratic values, bolstering our capacity to respond to threats and shaping the global narrative around shared values.
Furthermore, the CBC should be transformed into a global media force. Empowering the CBC and Radio-Canada International with a new mission will report on global struggles for democracy, counter disinformation, and elevate the voices of human rights defenders. Informing, engaging, and protecting the truth in an era of information warfare is paramount.
Finally, strategic alliances are not solely forged at summits but through long-lasting relationships between people. Ottawa should dramatically expand its support for educational exchanges, leadership programs, and civil society partnerships that connect emerging global leaders to Canada. These networks are crucial in times of crisis, helping to advance democratic values, build economic bridges, and respond with agility when the global order is tested.
Carney’s government has a narrow window to chart a bold and visionary course, seizing the opportunity to redefine how Canada engages with the world. It must rise to meet this moment with ambition, securing our future and restoring Canada’s role as a principled, connected, and influential global power.
References:
Five big moves Mark Carney must make to secure Canada’s place in the world
