Indo-Pacific and NATO James Lautens

The Centre Holds: What NATO Can Learn from South Korea’s Democratic Crisis

Last December, in a bizarre move, the former president of South Korea Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law. Speculation abounded as to why he did so. The BBC reported, after interviewing members of his inner circle, that Yoon Suk Yeol was driven by an urge to win, and viewed the South Korean opposition leader, Lee Read More…

James Lautens

All Eyes on Us: The Future of the Five Eyes Intelligence Group

With the robustness of the rules-based international order in question, multilateral agreements are more crucial than ever. Intelligence-sharing in particular, such as among the Five Eyes intelligence group, has played a critical role to Canadian and international security cooperation since the end of the Second World War. However, recent criticisms from the White House have called to remove Canada from the intelligence group altogether. What would this mean for the security of Canada and our allies’ ability to counter growing threats around the world?

Environment, Climate Change, and Security James Lautens

Mineral Mania: Canada’s Critical Mineral Opportunity

At an increasing rate, critical minerals are at the forefront of international relations. Critical minerals are a hot topic not only in the business sphere but also the defence sphere.This is especially true now, with President Donald Trump pushing Ukraine to sign over its critical mineral rights to the United States. This demand is presented Read More…

James Lautens Society, Culture, and Security

Conscription in NATO Countries: Why Do Some Have It and Others Don’t?

In his latest article, James Lautens explores the discussion around military conscription as a means of deterrence in global security. By comparing conscription policies in NATO countries, he outlines the cultural, political, geographic, and historical factors behind conscription policies and argues that, in an increasingly unstable world, Canada should consider all options – including conscription – to strengthen its defences.