The Munk Debates Podcast Friday Focus: The Canadian military's shocking plan to train civil servants and will new Epstein revelations affect Trump's hold over the Republican Party?
Nov 14, 2025
The Canadian military's unusual plan to train civil servants in firearms, drones, and truck driving raises eyebrows. Is this a sign of defense preparedness or a misguided effort? The concept of mandatory national service is also debated, questioning the effectiveness of such a directive. Later, revelations from the Epstein files link powerful figures, including Trump, igniting discussions about accountability among elites. The implications for the Republican Party and trade negotiations with Canada are explored, as Trump’s popularity wanes.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Half-Baked Military Plan Exposes Weak Thinking
- Canada’s military proposal to train public servants for combat roles reads as half-baked and ill-targeted.
- Rudyard Griffiths and Janice Stein argue the idea reveals unserious thinking about national defence.
Finnish Conscription Isn't The Same As Desk Jockey Reserves
- Janice Stein compares Canada's idea to Finland's universal conscription model driven by immediate regional threats.
- She highlights that Finland drafts 18-year-olds for comprehensive training, not ad-hoc public servant programs.
Design A Real National Service Program
- If Canada wants a citizen force, design a proper national service for youth instead of retrofitting public servants.
- Create structured options—short-term military or civil service—focused on skills and employability.