The future role of government

Luckily, Canada has a proven track record of resilience and adaptability, from navigating a global pandemic and net-zero commitments to spearheading technological innovation. We’re not just moving forward—we’re pioneering the path to tomorrow.

As we steer through these transformations, how can we evolve how we live, work, play, and govern? Our latest report outlines the trends shaping our economy, society, and governments, and the levers government leaders can use to transform these insights into tangible policies and actions.

Mapping Canada’s future

We’ve identified a series of trends that will impact Canada over the next five to 15 years, reshaping our society and the way we interact with each other. They will also demand—or provoke—government response.

Whether it’s depleting natural resources, decreasing citizen engagement in institutions, widening gaps in skills, or increasing demands on supply chains, these long-term trends will not only transform Canada’s economy and society but also require us to think differently about the function and methods of government.

The trends for Canadians include:

1. Digital equity and literacy
   How might we embrace an equitable digital future, where all people and communities can fully benefit from new digital technologies?
   
2. Reskilling and “right-sourcing” talent
   How might we build a job market that is resilient, equitable, and accessible for all jobseekers, while effectively matching supply with demand?
   
3. International Relations
   How might we ensure Canada positions itself to have more international influence and continue to stand up for democratic values on the global stage as a representative of all Canadians?
   
4. Natural resources security
   How might we shape a Canada where natural resources are managed, secured, and developed responsibly and sustainably, while bolstering the country’s global competitiveness and respecting Indigenous rights?
   
5. Supply chain, trade, and manufacturing
   How might we build strong domestic and international supply chains in a divided world, develop and maintain “friend-shoring” economic relationships, and ensure those supply chains remain resilient in times of geopolitical conflict?
   
6. The future form of government
   How might we build a system where all levels of government, including Indigenous governments, collaborate effectively? How might we renew the system for legislatures so they are able to exercise genuine oversight?
   
7. Health and social equity
   How might we transform the health care system to be equitable and promote holistic well-being for all?
   
8. The future of innovation
   How might we encourage more innovation across the country, allowing every sector to bring forward and implement creative solutions to emerging challenges?
   
9. Citizen engagement
   How might we build a diverse and engaged democracy that is united by a sentiment of solidarity, common purpose, and trust?
   
10. Indigenous sovereignty
    How might we build a post-colonial future wherein First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples have a balanced relationship with the Crown and can exercise their rights and powers to achieve economic and societal prosperity?
    
11. Fiscal sustainability
    How might we build an economy that is financially resilient, socially vibrant, and fiscally healthy?
    

Future-readying government

Canada’s future will be defined by transformation. Innovation, technology, and digitalization are already impacting how our governing bodies work, but the road ahead calls for greater coordination and acceleration.

Let’s start by supporting the evolution of the role of government.

Stay tuned for our upcoming series of articles that will dive deeper into the topics introduced in our recent report, The future role of government.