Prime Minister Mark Carney made a bold statement in Switzerland during the World Economic Forum in Davos, declaring that the traditional global order is obsolete and will not return. Carney described the previous international rules-based system as a facade, highlighting how the strongest nations would selectively exempt themselves, enforce trade rules unevenly, and apply international laws with bias based on the involved parties.
Sen. Peter Boehm, a former diplomat, remarked that Carney’s speech was the most significant by a Canadian prime minister since Louis St. Laurent’s articulation of Canada’s post-Second World War foreign policy direction in 1947. Carney’s address was seen as a pivotal moment, signaling a shift in approach for Canada and middle powers in navigating a rapidly changing world.
Carney did not directly mention U.S. President Donald Trump but alluded to “American hegemony” and the use of economic integration as a tool by major powers. Recent international events, such as the U.S.’s actions in Venezuela and its interest in Greenland, have stirred global concerns.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for middle powers like Canada to collaborate and advocate for their interests collectively on the world stage. Carney proposed that negotiating bilaterally with dominant powers puts middle powers at a disadvantage, emphasizing the importance of unity among like-minded nations.
Former Canadian ambassador Louise Blais viewed Carney’s speech as an effort to position Canada as a leading middle power, central to global affairs. Carney highlighted his government’s initiatives to diversify trade partnerships beyond the U.S., aiming to reduce reliance on a single economic partner.
Overall, Carney’s speech acknowledged the current rupture in global dynamics and called for an honest assessment of the world’s realities. While recognizing that the old order is irrevocably gone, Carney advocated for building a new, stronger, and fairer global framework moving forward.
