Prospects for Canada’s Federalism in the 21st Century

Prospects for Canada’s Federalism in the 21st Century

When Canada was created in 1867 it was a union of essentially equal provinces, with federal powers balanced between the House of Commons and the Senate. The new country was closely tied to Great Britain, and Aboriginal peoples were excluded from the governance of Canada. Developments in the past 140 years including the increase in the scope of provincial activities call for reforms to Canada’s governance structures especially with regard to: 1) the head of state; 2) the Senate; 3) the Atlantic provinces; 4) the role of Aboriginal peoples; and 5) education policy. Reforms in these areas, including a “made-in-Canada” head of state, a transformation of the Senate, a review of how the Atlantic provinces might better collaborate, the inclusion of Aboriginal peoples in governance fora, and a greater federal role in education policy will prepare Canada for the challenge and opportunities of the 21st century.