Publications | The Federal Idea

Newsletter: Are Interprovincial Relations More Important Than Federal-Provincial Ones

There is little discussion of relations between the provinces in Canada. When the newspapers mention the topic, it is typically in terms of implausibility or dysfunctionality.

Study: Twenty-First Century Trade Agreements: Challenges for Canadian Federalism

In the twentieth century, promoting trade between countries was focussed, for the most part, on tariffs and associated non-tariff barriers.

Newsletter: French in solid position in Quebec

For some time, there has been a chorus of calls to curb the number of immigrants admitted annually into Québec, in the name of protecting the French language.

Article: [French] Le NPD : une occasion pour le renouveau du fédéralisme au Québec?

Le NPD a obtenu aux dernières élections le plus gros score accordé à un parti fédéraliste au Québec depuis l’échec de l’accord du lac Meech.

Newsletter: Which Voting System is Best for Canada?

Our voting system weakens Canada’s cohesion. It artificially amplifies the regional concentration of political party support at the federal level.

Study: Integrating electricity sectors in Canada: Good for the environment and for the economy

In July 2011, the foundation for a collaborative action plan by Canadian provinces on energy was built…

Newsletter: Hydroelectricity

Since 1972, Hydro-Québec has received about 30 terawatt hours (TWh) per year of hydroelectricity from Labrador: enough to meet the electricity consumption of 45% of Québec households in 2012.

Newsletter: Uncertain Prospects for Senate Reform

Among democratic federations, the Canadian Senate looks astonishing on more than one count. Its members are not elected, but appointed by the federal executive. Senators keep their seat until they turn 75.

Study: Federalism in Africa

Federalism in Africa does not have a positive image. Its record of success is patchy while its failures seem manifest. However, the evident paucity of successful contemporary federal systems must not be allowed to convey the impression that federalism in Africa is redundant.

Newsletter: Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)

Canada has been negotiating a comprehensive economic and commercial agreement with the European Union (EU) since 2009. CETA would be the first agreement of this type between rich countries, and would very likely serve as an international model.