Adam Chapnick, "Canada First, Not Canada Alone: A History of Canadian Foreign Policy" (Oxford UP, 2024)
Feb 1, 2025
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Asa McKercher, a specialist in Canada-U.S. relations and holder of a PhD from Cambridge, delves into his book, detailing the evolution of Canadian foreign policy since the 1930s. He discusses the phrase 'Canada First, Not Canada Alone,' emphasizing how Canada balances national interests with global engagement. Through engaging case studies, he sheds light on crucial themes like environmental reform, trade, and wartime strategy. McKercher critiques historical and contemporary foreign policy challenges, unveiling the necessity for revitalized diplomatic efforts in a complex geopolitical landscape.
The podcast explores the historical evolution of Canadian foreign policy since the 1930s, highlighting its shift towards greater autonomy from the British Empire.
It emphasizes the complexity of contemporary diplomacy in Canada, shaped by multiple stakeholders and the need for integrated policy formulation.
The discussion critiques Canada's past moral failures in foreign policy, urging current and future leaders to align decisions with ethical considerations.
Deep dives
Importance of Understanding Canadian Foreign Policy
The discussion emphasizes the critical need for a nuanced understanding of Canadian foreign policy and its historical evolution. It highlights that the book co-authored by Asa McKercher and Adam Chapnick aims to provide a comprehensive view of how Canada's foreign policy has developed over the last 90 years. The authors take a case study approach to illustrate key themes and issues that Canadian policymakers have faced, reinforcing that understanding this history is essential for grappling with contemporary foreign policy challenges. By exploring past decisions and their consequences, the book seeks to contribute to ongoing debates regarding Canada’s role in a complex global landscape.
Canadian Independence in Foreign Affairs
A significant focus of the conversation is on Canada's gradual move toward autonomy in foreign policy, particularly in relation to the British Empire. From the 1930s, pushback from dominions like Canada, South Africa, and Ireland resulted in a reconfiguration of how these nations approached foreign relations. The authors note that this shift allowed Canada to begin asserting its distinct interests on the international stage, which has evolved since then. By examining events and sentiment leading up to this period, readers gain insight into the foundational changes that shaped modern Canadian foreign policy.
The Evolving Role of Canadian Diplomacy
The podcast underscores the complexity of contemporary Canadian diplomacy, which is influenced by multiple players and issues. It is noted that the foreign policy landscape now includes a variety of stakeholders, both within government and external organizations, complicating the process of policy formulation. The book highlights the historical role of prominent figures, including prime ministers and diplomats, while acknowledging the present challenges they face in achieving coherent foreign policy objectives. This evolution emphasizes the need for a more integrated approach to diplomacy that recognizes and effectively manages these diverse influences.
Lessons from Canadian Foreign Policy History
The authors reflect on controversial aspects of Canada's historical foreign policy, revealing choices that may not have aligned with today's values, particularly regarding human rights. They reference instances like Canada's reluctance to accept Jewish refugees during World War II and its hesitation to challenge apartheid in South Africa as examples of moral failures. Addressing these darker moments serves as a cautionary tale for current and future policymakers, reminding them of the importance of aligning foreign policy decisions with ethical considerations. This historical perspective fosters a critical examination of Canada’s past that advocates for a more inclusive and rights-respecting approach in contemporary practices.
Challenges and Future Directions for Canadian Foreign Policy
The conversation concludes with a critique of the current state of Canadian foreign policy in light of global complexities and domestic distractions. The authors discuss a lack of coherence and continuity caused by frequent changes in government and diverging priorities. They call attention to the potential for Canada to recapture its influential role on the world stage, emphasizing the need for a strong, unified approach that goes beyond mere rhetoric. By revisiting the lessons of the past and critically assessing current practices, the authors assert that Canada can reaffirm its commitment to becoming a responsible global actor once again.
The definitive history of Canadian foreign policy since the 1930s, Canada First, Not Canada Alone: A History of Canadian Foreign Policy (Oxford UP, 2024) examines how successive prime ministers have promoted Canada's national interests in a world that has grown increasingly complex and interconnected. Eleven case studies focus on environmental reform, Indigenous peoples, trade, hostage diplomacy, and wartime strategy illustrate the breadth of issues that shape Canada's global realm. In this lively interview, Asa McKercher offers explains the structure of the book, its main take-way and how Canada has positioned itself in the world.