A soldier in camouflage gear and helmet holds a riot shield, standing guard in front of a government building—a scene that raises the question: The authoritarian reflex: Will it manifest in Canada? Two other armed guards are visible near the windows.

The authoritarian reflex: Will it manifest in Canada?

A wave of authoritarian populism has been evident in Europe, Britain and the United States over the past few decades. Many Canadians are wondering how these energies might manifest in their own country’s upcoming federal election.

An overhead view of people walking and standing on a tiled floor in a public indoor space, some caught in motion blur. The scene prompts reflection: ahead of a federal election, what road will Conservatives take on immigration?.

Ahead of a federal election, what road will Conservatives take on immigration?

On the surface, the contrast between Canada and the United States on immigration is sharp. U.S. President Donald Trump was recently warning of an “invasion” by a group of migrants crossing Mexico on foot, even going so far as to send troops to the border in a theatrical flourish just ahead of the mid-term elections.

Two flags, the United States on the left and Canada on the right, wave on tall flagpoles against a cloudy sky with trees and utility poles in the background, symbolizing the continuing cultural divergence of Canada and the United States.

Does father know best? Canadian views – thankfully – continue to evolve

No socio-cultural change in North America has been more consequential over the past century than changes in attitudes and expectations related to the role and status of women in society.

Four young people stand side by side outdoors at sunset, looking ahead with serious expressions—a reminder that Canadians need to keep talking about racism as the warm sunlight casts a golden glow across their faces and the open, blurred background.

Multiculturalism doesn’t divide. It encourages belonging

Maxime Bernier has argued that multiculturalism is a divisive policy that encourages Canadians to identify with their own “tribes” at the expense of their wider society.

Does a Bernier Party stand a chance in Canada?

An estimated 25,000 people have crossed into Canada from the United States at irregular crossings, seeking refugee status and reportedly fearing deportation by the Trump administration to dangerous home countries.

A man sits at a desk indoors, holding and examining a sheet of paper with a focused expression—perhaps pondering whether having an election that changes nothing is not such a bad outcome after all. Large windows and office furniture are visible in the background.

The polling that matters comes after the election

Another provincial election has come and gone in Canada, and once again pre-election polling is coming under scrutiny for not getting it right. What used to be a predictable track record of accuracy in measuring voter support leading up to election day has now become anything but predictable or seemingly accurate.

Two people walk past parked bikes outside a café or restaurant, perhaps discussing three ways that Toronto could become more autonomous from Ontario. Inside the dimly lit establishment, a few people can be seen enjoying their meals.

Two Toronto men on what it is to be a man

News of two exceptional Toronto men has reached every corner of the world. One of the young men, who reportedly struggled to establish successful social relationships, especially with women, mowed down 25 pedestrians, killing 10, on Yonge Street last Monday.

A group of five people at an airport hold welcome signs, including one that reads Welcome to Canada with Canadian flags. Smiling near arrival screens, they reflect how Canada must continue to model its refugee efforts on its Syrian crisis response.

Canadian exceptionalism in attitudes toward immigration

Xenophobic retrenchment has been evident in many societies lately. Anti-immigrant parties have made or consolidated gains in countries such as Hungary, Germany, the Netherlands and, most recently, Italy.

What Canada can teach the US about immigration?

America is deeply divided on issues related to immigrants and refugees, while in Canada, which accepts larger proportions of newcomers, there is a general consensus in the country over the issue.

A wooden table displays several firearms, including a rifle and handguns, along with gun magazines, ammunition, and a roll of tape—a stark snapshot of why gun control is a lost cause in America.

Why gun control is a lost cause in America

Cultures have their own myths, institutions and trajectories. Some things have changed in America, as in other societies: slavery was abolished, women got the vote, same-sex marriage was allowed. 

Environics Institute for Survey Research

701-33 Bloor Street East
Toronto, ON M4W 3H1

info@environicsinstitute.org

Subscribe to our eNews

Subscribe to our eNews to stay apprised of our latest reports, Insights, events, and media mentions.

Stay Connected