Democracy under threat? Political polarization in Canada

Over the past two decades, we’ve seen a growing trend toward political polarization around the globe. On the face of it, Canadians seem to have largely sidestepped this trend, especially compared to our American neighbours.

But the country may not be as aligned as it seems. According to recent studies, Canadians have different views of the world depending on where they live. They are increasingly divided on correct responses to COVID and other policies. And they have increasingly negative views of those who do not agree with their political views.

How divided are we, really? Are our political, economic and geographic differences sowing seeds of discontent? And if so, what can policymakers to do to push back against a trend toward increasing polarization? Join us on March 30, 2022 at 4pm ET as we discuss the impact of polarization on public policy.

This talk is part of the IRPP’s 50th anniversary event series, What should be on Canada’s Policy Radar? Held throughout the spring and fall of 2022, these panel discussions will help us to identify the challenges that our decision-makers will face in the coming years, and examine ways in which Canada can promptly address these issues.

Speakers:
• Jennifer Ditchburn, President and CEO, IRPP (moderator)
• Darrell Bricker, CEO, Ipsos Public Affairs, and Senior Fellow, Munk School
• Anita Li, Journalist and founder, CEO and editor-in-chief of The Green Line
• Eric Merkley, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, University of Toronto
• Sean Speer, Senior Fellow, Munk School and PPF Scotiabank Fellow in Strategic Competitiveness at the Public Policy Forum