National defence is often an afterthought in Canadian elections. Not this time
As Canadians gear up for the federal election on April 28, issues of sovereignty, national security, and defence are taking center stage in a way that hasn’t been seen in decades. Traditionally, these topics have been overshadowed by bread-and-butter issues like the economy, health care, and social programs. However, the current political landscape has been dramatically altered by U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war and threats to annex Canada.
The Business Council of Canada, under the leadership of Goldie Hyder, has been sounding the alarm on the link between national security and the economy. The council has been advocating for increased defence spending to address military capability gaps and meet NATO spending targets. Canada is currently falling short of the NATO benchmark of spending two percent of GDP on the military, with only 1.37 percent being spent last year. The council has even called for a target of three percent to bring Canada up to speed with global security demands.
The upcoming election has seen all major parties committing to increasing defence spending, with the Liberals, Conservatives, and NDP all vowing to meet the two percent target. However, the urgency of the situation has led to calls for a detailed plan on how the increased funds will be allocated to enhance Canadian security interests.
The threat posed by Trump’s attacks on Canada has galvanized the nation and blurred the lines between political parties. Both the Liberals and Conservatives are now advocating for re-armament, retaliatory sanctions, and a focus on the Arctic and trade diversification. This shift in consensus highlights the gravity of the moment and the need for a united front in protecting Canada’s sovereignty.
As the election approaches, it is crucial for parties to resist creating political wedge issues and focus on strengthening the country’s defences in a responsible manner. The public’s tolerance for politics as usual is likely to be low, given the current uncertainty surrounding Canada’s relationship with the United States. It is essential for Canada to assert its independence and strengthen relationships in its national interest, regardless of the outcome of the election.
The upcoming election presents a unique opportunity for Canadians to address pressing national security concerns and assert their sovereignty in the face of external threats. By prioritizing defence spending and strategic planning, Canada can ensure its security and prosperity in a rapidly changing global landscape.
