Time for Canada to get over its middle-power myth

At this week’s United Nations General Assembly and the Summit of the Future in New York City, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau touts Canada’s potential to lead the charge for a fairer, more prosperous world. Yet, this vision often comes shrouded in a misplaced self-image as a “middle power”—an indispensable power that routinely “punches above its weight.” It’s time for Canada to get over this myth of being such a player, and embrace its true identity as a North Pacific, Arctic, and North Atlantic power. Rather than chasing delusions of global grandeur, our country should double down on our regional priorities because that is where our influence, security, and economic potential truly lie. Andrew Latham is a professor at Macalester College, and a senior fellow with the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy in Ottawa. Photograph courtesy of Andrew Latham For far too long, Canada has clung to the label of a middle power, relying on a historical reputation for diplomacy and multilateralism. While this identity served us well in the post-Second World War era, the geopolitical landscape has shifted dramatically. The rise of authoritarian regimes, such as China and Russia, alongside the tumult of global crises has rendered Canada’s middle-power mentality increasingly obsolete. In today’s world, diplomacy and consensus-building are necessary, but insufficient. Canada must recognize that the dynamics of international relations have changed, and the challenges we face require a more robust and assertive stance. Embracing the notion of our nation as a middle power distracts from the reality that we have unique strengths and responsibilities that extend beyond mere mediation. Our geography positions us uniquely as a vital player in three crucial regions: the North Pacific, Arctic, and North Atlantic. These areas are not only essential for our national security, but also hold immense economic potential and strategic importance in an increasingly competitive world. In the North Pacific, Canada has significant interests that must take precedence. Our economic ties with Pacific Rim countries are critical for trade and commerce, particularly as China continues to assert its influence in the region. Rather than pursuing a vague global role, Canada should prioritize strengthening relationships with allies like Japan, South Korea, and Australia. This requires a strategic pivot that places the North Pacific at the forefront of our foreign policy, focusing on trade agreements, military co-operation, and shared regional security initiatives. The Arctic is another area where our nation must assert itself. With climate change rapidly opening up this region, it is becoming a focal point for geopolitical competition. Russia’s aggressive actions and expansion in the Arctic require a robust Canadian response. Rather than pretending to be a global player, we should enhance our Arctic capabilities—enforcing sovereignty, protecting the environment, and engaging with Indigenous communities. A comprehensive Arctic strategy should include investments in infrastructure, scientific research, and military presence, ensuring that we are equipped to assert our rights and responsibilities in this crucial region. By doing so, our country can effectively contribute to global discussions on climate change, security, and sustainable development while safeguarding our national interests. In the North Atlantic, Canada’s role is similarly vital. As a NATO member, Canada must take seriously its commitment to collective security, particularly in light of rising threats from Russia and other adversaries. The ongoing war in Ukraine has underscored the importance of strong transatlantic ties. We must not only commit to increasing our defence spending, but also enhance our contributions to NATO missions. This commitment is essential to maintaining a credible presence, and ensuring that our country is a key player in regional security dynamics. While Trudeau’s vision of Canada as a global power is admirable in its ambition, it risks spreading our nation too thin, and distracting from pressing regional issues. The commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and climate initiatives—while laudable—often reflects an idealistic view that overlooks the pragmatic realities of international relations. In a world increasingly dominated by power politics, Canada must adopt a more realistic posture, one that recognizes the necessity of hard power alongside diplomatic efforts. By focusing on our regional strengths, Canada can better navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and assert its interests effectively. To redefine ourself as a North Pacific, Arctic, and North Atlantic power, we must undertake a strategic realignment. This involves not only adjusting foreign policy priorities, but also investing in the capabilities necessary to act effectively in these regions. Increasing defence spending is crucial to enhance military capabilities in the Arctic and North Atlantic, which includes modernizing our naval fleet, investing in Arctic patrol vessels, and ensuring that the Canadian Armed Forces is ready to respond to emerging threats. Strengthening trade relationships with North Pacific partners should be a top priority. We must actively pursue trade agreements that bolster economic ties, particularly with nations that share our values and strategic interests. In the Arctic, Canada can lead discussions on climate change and environmental stewardship. By positioning ourselves as a champion of sustainable practices, we enhance our credibility and influence in global forums while protecting our northern territories. As Trudeau navigates the complexities of international diplomacy in New York, it is imperative that he recognizes that this country’s future on the world stage lies not in lofty ambitions, but in a clear-eyed assessment of our regional strengths. By embracing our identity as a North Pacific, Arctic, and North Atlantic power, Canada can focus on areas where we can exert real influence and ensure our national interests are protected. The time has come for Canada to shed the middle power aspirations and the delusions of global power. By doubling down on regional priorities and adopting a realistic approach to international relations, Canada can navigate the challenges of the 21st century with confidence and purpose. The world is watching; we must rise to meet the moment not as a global player, but as a regional powerhouse capable of shaping its own destiny. Andrew Latham is a professor at Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minn., a senior fellow with the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy in Ottawa, and a non-resident fellow with Defense Priorities in Washington, D.C. He has a PhD from York University, and worked for many years as a consultant to the Department of National Defence and then-Foreign Affairs and International Trade. The Hill Times

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Time for Canada to get over its middle-power myth

Canada should embrace its regional strength and the immense economic potential and strategic importance of the North Pacific, Arctic, and North Atlantic.

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