The incoming President Donald Trump had the opportunity to consider a transformative vision for North America: a closer economic, political, social, and cultural union between Canada and the United States. Instead of resorting to tariffs, insults against our Prime Minister, and coercion in pursuit of integrating Canada as a 51st state, the approach could have been collaborative, respectful, and visionary. A proposed “Union of the Americas” (UA) could have unlocked benefits for both nations while addressing shared challenges in a democratic and civil manner.
The Potential Benefits of a Union
The idea of a closer union between Canada and the United States is not without merit. Both countries share a border, extensive trade ties, and intertwined histories. A structured and consensual partnership could build upon these commonalities to create new opportunities:
- Economic Growth and Prosperity:
A union could harmonize trade policies, reduce tariffs, and eliminate other economic barriers, creating the largest free trade area in the world. By integrating infrastructure projects, energy grids, and supply chains, businesses could thrive under a more unified economic framework, and workers on both sides of the border could benefit from increased job opportunities and mobility. - Enhanced Security:
A closer union would strengthen cooperation in border security, intelligence sharing, and defense. This collaboration could better address common threats such as cyberattacks, organized crime, and climate-related disasters. - Cultural Exchange and Social Progress:
Canadians and Americans already enjoy deep cultural ties, but a formal union could encourage even greater exchanges in arts, education, and innovation. Joint programs could celebrate diversity while fostering mutual understanding and respect. - Environmental Stewardship:
Both nations face pressing environmental challenges, from managing shared water resources to tackling climate change. A coordinated strategy within a union could lead to robust policies and investments in renewable energy and sustainable development. - Global Influence:
Together, Canada and the United States would wield unmatched economic, military, and diplomatic influence. A union could present a unified front in addressing global challenges, from advocating for human rights to shaping the international order.
Addressing Concerns
However, a union of this magnitude would undoubtedly raise significant concerns, which must be addressed through open dialogue and democratic processes.
- Sovereignty and Identity:
Many Canadians fear losing their national identity and autonomy in a closer partnership with the United States. To address this, the UA could adopt a federal model that respects the unique political and cultural structures of each nation as sovereign states, similar to the European Union. Canada’s bilingualism, Indigenous rights, and healthcare system must remain protected. - Economic Disparities:
While a union could bring economic growth, it must also address the disparities between regions and industries in both countries. Policies should ensure that smaller communities and vulnerable populations are not left behind in the pursuit of integration. - Democratic Accountability:
A union must be built on democratic principles, ensuring that citizens on both sides of the border have a voice in shaping its governance. Transparency and public participation would be essential to building trust.
A Democratic, Civil, and Respectful Process
The success of such a union would hinge on its development through a democratic and civil process. This would require extensive consultation with citizens, elected officials, Indigenous leaders, and civil society organizations. A referendum in both nations could serve as a cornerstone of legitimacy, ensuring that the UA reflects the will of the people.
Negotiations should emphasize mutual respect, with each nation entering as an equal partner. The process would also need to include robust protections for minority rights, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability.
Moving Forward
The opportunity to explore a Union of the Americas was a missed chance to forge a groundbreaking partnership between Canada and the United States. President Trump’s approach, characterized by tariffs and insults, strained relations and squandered a moment to lead with vision and diplomacy.
While such an ambitious idea may not have been politically feasible during Trump’s presidency, it remains a concept worth revisiting in the future. A thoughtfully crafted union, built on respect and mutual benefit, could set a precedent for global cooperation and demonstrate the power of collaboration in an increasingly divided world.
As both nations look ahead, let this idea remind us of the potential that arises when leaders choose unity over division, dialogue over discord, and partnership over coercion. The vision of a Union of the Americas offers a blueprint for what is possible when nations work together to achieve shared prosperity, security, and progress.
Alex Sangha has an MSc in Public Administration and Public Policy from the Department of Government at the London School of Economics. He is the recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada.
