Join J.O. Michel Maisonneuve, a former Canadian Army officer; Barbara Maisonneuve, a veteran and DEI advocate; and Mark Norman, a retired Vice-Admiral, as they delve into the pressing issues facing the Canadian military. The discussion covers the impact of diversity initiatives on military effectiveness, challenges in recruitment, and the complexities of addressing misconduct. They also comment on Canada’s shifting diplomatic identity and the need for a renewed focus on meritocracy, emphasizing the balance between necessary change and operational readiness.
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Quick takeaways
The Canadian military is facing a crisis of recruitment and retention due to underfunding and a lack of public understanding of its importance.
Canada's reliance on the United States for military protection risks complacency, undermining its credibility and commitment to international security efforts.
DEI policies, while important for culture, may detract from operational effectiveness by challenging the meritocracy essential for a capable fighting force.
Deep dives
Crisis in the Canadian Military
The Canadian military is undergoing a significant crisis marked by low recruitment and retention rates that highlight broader systemic issues. The armed forces face challenges such as underfunding and a lack of public understanding regarding their necessity, which has eroded institutional credibility. Moreover, these recruitment difficulties stem from public perceptions that often oversimplify the role and importance of the military. This perfect storm of challenges requires urgent attention, as the mission readiness of the Canadian military is jeopardized.
Consequences of Overreliance on the U.S.
There is a prevailing attitude that Canada can rely on the United States for military protection, leading to complacency regarding domestic defense strategies. This dependency fosters a short-term outlook, undermining Canada’s commitment to its international allies and eroding its credibility in global matters. Relying solely on American capabilities could have severe repercussions, should geopolitical dynamics shift unfavorably. Therefore, it is imperative for Canada to bolster its own military capabilities to participate meaningfully in international security efforts.
Concerns Over DEI Initiatives
The integration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the military is critiqued for potentially overshadowing the core mission of the armed forces. While recognizing the importance of addressing issues of misconduct and improving culture, there is concern that executing DEI policies may detrimentally impact operational effectiveness and morale. The focus on quotas and representation could detract from the meritocracy needed to maintain a capable fighting force. Critics argue that prioritizing certain ideological narratives over military preparedness could lead to more significant issues down the line.
Impact of Leadership on Morale
Military leadership plays a crucial role in shaping the morale and effectiveness of the armed forces. A lack of supportive public statements by high-ranking officials regarding the value and importance of military service has created feelings of demoralization among personnel. Recent protests against removing senior officers from their positions due to controversies also contribute to a climate of fear, discouraging open dialogue. Leaders need to advocate for their troops publicly to reaffirm commitment and address the ongoing challenges facing the military.
Marginalization of Military Voices
The voices of military personnel are often marginalized in discussions about defense policy, which can remove critical insights from the conversation. Junior and mid-level officers may feel compelled to remain silent on pressing issues for fear of political repercussions, leading to an information gap regarding public perceptions of military readiness and threats. There is a need for greater transparency, as well as willingness from military leaders to communicate current challenges to the Canadian public. Strengthening this dialogue could foster a more informed citizenry about the state of national defense.
Call to Young Canadians
Young Canadians are encouraged to consider careers in the military not only for personal development and skills acquisition but also as a means to serve their country. The military offers a variety of roles, from technical trades to leadership positions, that can provide fulfilling career paths, especially with the current need for personnel. Additionally, engaging with military education institutions like military colleges offers opportunities for academic, physical, and leadership growth. Connecting with the mission of the military can empower young individuals to take an active role in safeguarding national interests.
Dr. Jordan Peterson sits down with J.O. Michel Maisonneuve, Barbara Anne Maisonneuve, and Mark Norman. They discuss the implementation of DEI policy in the Canadian Armed Forces, the move away from meritocracy, the overreaction to sexual misconduct — while acknowledging the existing problems — and the country's loss of credibility on the world stage.
Lieutenant-General J.O. Michel Maisonneuve, CMM, MSC, CD is a former Canadian Army officer who has served as the Assistant Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff of Canada and Chief of Staff of NATO's Allied Command Transformation in Norfolk. He is also the 30th recipient of the Vimy Award.
Barbara joined the Canadian Armed Forces at 18, first as a Military Policeman, then graduated from the Royal Military College with a Bachelor’s degree into the Logistics branch. She proudly served 21 years sporting the light blue Royal Canadian Air Force uniform. After her service, Barbara chaired the Première Gala that raised funds and celebrated the reopening of the historic Westdale Theatre in Hamilton, and she has helped raise millions for our veterans and serving soldiers.
Mark Norman retired from the Royal Canadian Navy in the rank of Vice-Admiral in August of 2019 after over 39 years of service. Since retirement, Norman has applied his energy to a variety of pursuits including as Champion for the Royal Canadian Benevolent Fund, Senior Defense Strategist at Samuel Associates, Director at Genoa Designs, he also contributes frequently to the important debate about security and defense issues in Canada as both a fellow with the Global Affairs Institute and as a member of the Conference of Defence Associations Board.
This episode was recorded on July 8th, 2024
- Links -
For Michel Maisonneuve:
In Defense of Canada: Reflections of a Patriot (book) https://www.amazon.com/Defence-Canada-Reflections-Patriot/dp/1990823955
RMC and RMC Saint-Jean programs and explanations:
https://forces.ca/en/paid-education/rotp
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