Canadian values in Canadian foreign policy

Abstract

Canadians who participate in the development of foreign policy believe that a core set of values should guide the conduct of Canada's international relations. Over the past six years, the National Forum on Canada's International Relations has consistently reflected these values, which include: respect for the environment; commitment to democracy; a desire to encourage fairness in developing societies (fair labour, business, legal and governance arrangements); a recognition of the importance of tolerance and a desire to promote that to others; and a strong attachment to the idea of an engaged civil society both at home and abroad. We can expect that as Canadians demand and play a larger role in foreign policy, they will continue to promote these values. The challenge for policy makers is to ensure that Canadians see their values reflected in foreign policy and that policy making take advantage of this growing resource of public interest and capacity.