Canadian Foreign Policy

Arms to the Saudis: Wrong Decision, Right Result?0
- Analysis
- April 23, 2016
Those defending human rights are used to the many contradictions involved. They demand of the same governments responsible for torture and discrimination that they uphold international prohibitions on such abuse. Their impartial reporting is seized on at politically opportune moments …
READ MORE
Disability and Development in Africa: What Role for Canada?0
- Analysis
- April 21, 2016
by David Black

It has become widely accepted that the previous Conservative government sharply diminished Canada’s focus on Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Against this backdrop, the new Liberal government has signalled its intent to re-engage.

There are several problems with …
READ MORE
Budget 2016: Postponing Decisions on Canada’s Foreign Aid 0
- Analysis
- March 24, 2016
In its first five months in office, the Liberal government has captured the world’s attention, never losing an opportunity to proclaim that “Canada is back.” In a blog a few months ago, the McLeod Group lamented the new government’s lack …
READ MORE
Lessons from a Decade in Afghanistan 0
- Analysis
- March 24, 2016
The lessons below are gleaned from the experiences of the international community in the decade following the overthrow of the Taliban regime. They provide partial answers to the question of why Afghanistan has faced renewed conflict and a resurgent Taliban, …
READ MORE
Migration as a Threat to Foreign Aid?0
- Analysis
- March 16, 2016
The current migration crisis poses a threat to foreign aid. By that, I certainly do not mean that the refugees and asylum seekers themselves are dangerous, but rather how Western governments respond to the crisis is already having a negative …
READ MORE
Bringing Canada “Back” for the Long Haul 0
- Analysis
- March 10, 2016
By Margaret Biggs and John McArthur

This week Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will lead a delegation to Washington with great fanfare. Like many of our fellow Canadians, we are excited to see the outcomes of the country’s first White …
READ MORE

Sacrificing Democracy for Security? Shifting International Priorities in Africa 0
- Analysis
- March 6, 2016
More than a week after the elections in Uganda, the main opposition leader remains under house arrest. Police have been camped outside Dr Kizza Besigye’s home since election day, and whenever he attempts to leave, he is promptly detained. From …
READ MORE
Women’s Development in Afghanistan: Ensuring Sustainable Gains 0
- Analysis
- February 29, 2016
International Women’s Day should be marked by acknowledging that claims — made by the international community and the Afghan government — of advances in promoting women’s rights in Afghanistan are largely disconnected from reality. Human Rights Watch and the Afghan …
READ MORE
A Smart IS Strategy — Except for the Air Strikes 0
- Analysis
- February 18, 2016
This week, the Trudeau government released its strategy to confront Islamic State. On balance, it is a good strategy, one that is consistent with Canada’s interests, with one important exception: the decision to stop the air strikes.

Every element in …
READ MORE
Canada in Afghanistan: A Role Model for Canada’s Middle East Mission?0
- Analysis
- February 17, 2016
While recalling six fighter jets from the bombing mission in the Middle East, Canada promises to provide military training, humanitarian aid, and diplomacy in fostering a peace process. The Liberal government’s promise of humanitarian assistance and intent to find a …
READ MORE
Where’s the government’s longer-range vision on ISIL?0
- Analysis
- February 9, 2016
Prime Minister Trudeau wants to put a new Liberal stamp on the Canadian mission to Iraq and the region. His press conference on Monday marked an expected shift away from a direct Canadian contribution to air attacks against Islamic State …
READ MORE
Why Resuming Ties with Tehran will be Slow Going for Canada 0
- Analysis
- January 30, 2016
The Liberal government says it will soon begin lifting some sanctions imposed on Iran and will gradually implement its campaign pledge of re-establishing diplomatic relations with Tehran.

This is sound policy: It is in Canada’s interest to regain its foothold …
READ MORE