Canadian Foreign Policy

This course examines Canada’s foreign policy in an era of profound international change. For decades, Canada’s global role was shaped by close ties with the United States, support for the liberal international order, and engagement through multilateral institutions. Today, these foundations are increasingly challenged by great-power competition, economic insecurity, climate change, and evolving security threats. Using the tools of foreign policy analysis, students will explore the historical evolution of Canadian foreign policy, the institutions and actors that shape decision-making, and Canada’s responses to contemporary issues, including North American security, the Indo-Pacific, Arctic sovereignty, international trade, and global governance. Throughout the course, students will evaluate competing perspectives on Canada’s role as a middle power and consider how policymakers balance national interests, international commitments, and domestic political pressures. The course also develops practical policy skills through briefing notes, policy analysis, and simulations based on real-world foreign policy challenges.