The Security, Trade and the Economy program aims to provide Canadians with relevant and accessible analysis on current international economic policies with a focus on Canadian interests and trade security. Additionally, the program examines our country’s commitment to NATO’s mandate of encouraging economic collaboration and eliminating economic conflict.

Security, Trade and the Economy

Debunking the Myth that Agricultural Subsidies Preserve Traditional Lifestyles and the Environment

Since the signing of the GATT, nations have sought to justify their trade distorting agricultural subsidy schemes on the basis of several rationales. In this article, Dan Poliwoda debunks one of those rationales: the myth that agricultural subsidies protect traditional rural lifestyles and the environment. Later, he discusses how anticipated reforms to the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy more closely align with this stated objective.

Security, Trade and the Economy

Making the US-China Trade War About More Than Just Trade

In this article, Dan Poliwoda examines the escalating US-China Trade War, and the growing geo-political threat China poses to the US and its democratic allies. Instead of deescalation, Dan argues the US must redefine its rationale for pursuing the conflict in order to apply broader economic pressure on China through a G-7 led, democratic coalition.

David Lazzam Security, Trade and the Economy

Special Report: Can One Lawsuit Turn the Tide Against Big Energy in the Battle on Climate Change?

In his special report, David Lazzam discusses the monumental impact the upcoming New York State ExxonMobil lawsuit could have on the future of climate litigation. Will the upcoming legal battle reflect the victories of tobacco regulation?

Security, Trade and the Economy Wu Xiao

Belt and Road Initiative: Understanding China’s Foreign Policy Strategy

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been a contentious topic in international affairs since it was announced by President Xi Jinping in 2013. The mega-project aiming to connect Central Asia, Europe, and Africa via economic trade routes has received mixed responses from the international community for its lofty goals. Despite criticism about the plan’s Read More…

Security, Trade and the Economy William Lloyd

The Economic State of Syria

The Syrian Civil War is drawing to a close, and at long last. Since its inception in March of 2011, the conflict has provoked utter calamity on a scale not otherwise seen since World War Two. Originating from an unassuming incident, the war has spiraled out of control, with the resulting carnage leaving upwards of Read More…

Security, Trade and the Economy Willow Hillman

CBSA Involvement in Border Security Television Show: Balancing Security and Individual Rights

In view of a potential renewal, Willow Hillman situates Canada Border Services Agency’s participation in the Border Security: Canada’s Front Line television show in the broader context of balancing national security with individual rights.

Security, Trade and the Economy Tiffany Kwok

Growing Up, or Apart? : European Strategic Autonomy

The mutual dependency of nations for the purposes of protection is a normalized standard in international security. Yet, this complementary relationship is not one that is easily achieved and requires a lot to maintain. In recent years, the term ‘strategic autonomy’ has stimulated interest amongst a large European collective, producing both supporters and opponents of Read More…

Farzin Bakhtiar Security, Trade and the Economy

Canada’s Economic Security: North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and Chapter 19

When the North American Free Trade Agreement was first negotiated in 1994, Chapter 19, a dispute settlement mechanism specializing in anti-dumping and countervailing (ADCVD) cases, was heavily contested by Canada. However, the tables have turned almost two decades later, as Canada has fought to preserve the mechanism in recent trade talks. With the renegotiations complete, Read More…