The Big Five Podcast Canada plans to recognize Palestine - with a catch. Plus: Your charter rights to bike paths.
Jul 31, 2025
Raphaël Melançon, political analyst and founder of Trafalgar Strategies, joins Jonathan Kalles, former advisor to Prime Minister Trudeau. They discuss Canada's upcoming recognition of Palestine and the conditions tied to it. The conversation dives into the political implications for both international relations and domestic politics, especially regarding trade with the U.S. The podcast also examines the constitutional court ruling on Ontario's controversial bike lane removal plan, shedding light on the intersection of provincial authority and public interests.
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Realistic Limits on Recognition
- Canada's recognition of Palestine depends on commitments that are unlikely to be fulfilled soon.
- This recognition does not change the current situation or alleviate suffering in Gaza.
Recognition Key to Democracy
- Recognition of Palestine is seen as essential by some to support democratic institutions.
- Three quarters of countries already recognize Palestine, mostly except Western democracies.
Hamas Complicates Palestinian Democracy
- Majority Palestinians may want to remove Hamas, but polls suggest strong Hamas support.
- Democracy vs Hamas participation presents a challenging contradiction in Palestinian statehood.