Trade, Defence, or Aid? Canadians' Views on Foreign Priorities

New polling from the Angus Reid Institute suggests broad support for trade—but deep divides over defence and diplomacy.

With global tensions on the rise, Canadians are increasingly turning their attention to the country’s role on the world stage. In response, pollsters have begun gauging public sentiment on foreign affairs and how Ottawa is navigating emerging international challenges.

A new survey from the Angus Reid Institute asked Canadians whether the country is keeping pace—or falling behind—on a range of global issues.

The results suggest growing concern: three-quarters of respondents (75 per cent) believe Canada is falling behind in military strength, while 61 percent say the country is lagging in trade competitiveness. Nearly half (49 percent) feel Canada’s diplomatic influence is insufficient.