Canadian Politics
Canadian politics range from federal to provincial and municipal levels. At each level there are systems in place which dictate the election process, the governing of citizens, and the policies which affect both. Understanding the basics of Canadian politics can provide insight into the roles we have as citizens, in addition to understanding the specifics of how elections and policies affect us.
History of Canadian Politics
Canadian politics have had a long, and often turbulent, history. The country of Canada was mostly formed from the British North America Act of 1867, which created a set of provisions defining the dominion of Canada. This act lay the foundation for the politics of Canada by determining the boundaries and governments of the various provinces. Following the BNA act, the British were still in control of the Dominion of Canada’s foreign affairs and defense, until the Statute of Westminster transferred complete control to the imperial government in 1931.
Since then, Canadian politics have evolved considerably, with the federal government and the various provincial governments working together in a type of intergovernmentalism. This has led to the development of various institutions and organizations in order to facilitate co-operation and communication between the federal and provincial governments.
Canadian Political Structure
The federal system is the foundation of Canadian politics. It denotes which powers are given to the federal government, the provinces, and sometimes, the territories, to ensure the fair and efficient running of the nation.
At the federal level, the government is backed by the Constitution of Canada, which outlines the power to be held by both the federal government and the provincial governments. The Constitution also outlines the roles of both the Governor General and the Prime Minister, who are the ceremonial commanders in chief of the nation. The legislative powers of the federal government are outlined in the House of Commons and the Senate. These two legislative bodies make up the bicameral Parliament of Canada.
Federal politics are then divided into the provincial and territorial governments. Each province and territory has its own legislature, government, and premier. The primary purpose of provincial governments is to administer and implement the laws and policies that affect the citizens of each respective province. The responsibilities of provincial governments include healthcare, education, and local infrastructure.
Canadian Elections
Elections are the cornerstone of Canadian politics. It is through the electoral process that the government is able to assess the public opinion, and enact legislation which reflects the will of Canadians. Canada holds both general elections, at the federal level, and provincial and territorial elections.
Federal elections are held using a first-past-the-post system and are governed by the Canada Elections Act. During general elections MPs and Senators are elected, as well as a Prime Minister, who will then appoint the cabinet and act as the leader of the nation. Provincial and territorial elections are governed by the various provincial election acts and use various electoral systems.
Political Parties of Canada
Political parties play a major role in Canadian politics. They are responsible for mobilizing election campaigns and the election of their respective MPs, Senators, and provincial leaders. Canada’s federal political landscape consists of seven main political parties including the Conservative Party of Canada, Liberal Party of Canada, New Democratic Party, Bloc Québécois, and the Green Party of Canada.
The party system has a major impact on the election process and the policy decisions enacted by the government. It is through parties that policy proposals are developed and the ideologies of each political party are expressed and presented. Through parties, citizens can become involved in the political process and gain an understanding of their chosen party’s platform and policies.
Canadian Policies
Policies are essential to the proper functioning of a nation. They provide a framework by which citizens can live, as well as outlining the relationship between the various levels of government.
At the federal level, the Canadian government is responsible for the formation of laws, regulations and policies related to foreign affairs, defense, immigration, taxation, and economics. Provincial governments, on the other hand, are responsible for the formation of laws, regulations and policies related to health, education, and local infrastructure.
Canadian policies are often created to resolve social issues, protect individual rights, and promote economic growth. Various laws, regulations, and policies have been enacted to combat issues such as gender inequality, climate change, and racism.
Canadian politics play an integral role in the country’s governance. They provide the framework by which citizens are governed, and are responsible for the implementation of policies, laws, and regulations. Understanding the basics of Canadian politics can provide insight into the roles we have as citizens, in addition to understanding the specifics of how elections and policies affect us. By understanding the history, political structure, elections, political parties, and policies, it becomes easier to build an informed opinion and participate in the nation’s politics.