Articles on Canadian foreign policy

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Book donation projects like those undertaken by Canada’s Overseas Book Centre undermined local book publishing initiatives in recipient Global South nations. (Chuttersnap/Unsplash)

How ‘books for development’ campaigns reveal an unjust global order

After the Second World War, Canadian work in global literacy campaigns helped elaborate Canada’s image as benevolent and innocent regarding internal colonialism.
People holding a banner against U.S. President Donald Trump march outside the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba, on Jan. 16, 2026, to protest the killing of Cuban officers during the U.S. abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)

How Canada‑Cuba relations must navigate the dangers of the U.S. embargo

Canada’s longstanding approach to ties with Cuba is geared towards preserving diplomatic engagement while safeguarding economic and strategic interests.
Justin Trudeau, left, and Stephen Harper exchange words during the Munk Debate on foreign affairs, in Toronto in September 2015. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan

Why Stephen Harper and Justin Trudeau have taken the same tepid approach to global affairs

There have been major similarities between Justin Trudeau’s approach to foreign policy and Stephen Harper’s. But Canadian governments have limited flexibility in how they manage external affairs.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly speaks with reporters in the foyer of the House of Commons in May 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

Canada needs a focused and flexible foreign policy after years of inconsistency

Canada must readjust its foreign policy to adapt to changing global conditions, and ground that policy in its history. It must be orderly, flexible and in the country’s long-term interests.

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