Politics of Canada

Canada is a constitutional monarchy and a Commonwealth Realm (see Monarchy in Canada) with a federal system of parliamentary government, and strong democratic traditions. Many of the country's legislative practices derive from the unwritten practices of and precedents set by the United Kingdom's Westminster parliament; however, Canada has evolved variations. Party discipline in Canada is stronger than in the United Kingdom, and more of the votes are considered confidence votes, which tends to diminish the role of non-cabinet Members of Parliament (MPs), known as backbenchers. Backbenchers can, however, exert their influence by sitting in parliamentary committees, like the Public Accounts Committee or the National Defence Committee.

National unity

Canada has a long and storied history of secessionist movements (see Secessionist movements of Canada). National unity has been a major issue in Canada since the forced union of the Canadas in 1840.

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The predominant and lingering issue concerning Canadian national unity has been the ongoing conflict between the French-speaking majority in Quebec and the English-speaking majority in the rest of Canada. Quebec's continued demands for recognition of its distinct culture through special political status above other provinces have led to attempts for constitutional reform, most notably with the failed attempts to pass constitutional amendments using the Meech Lake Accord and the Charlottetown Accord.

Related Topics:
Meech Lake Accord - Charlottetown Accord

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There have also been renewed calls in Alberta to implement a "firewall" - as outlined in the Alberta Agenda - in order to further diminish the presence of the federal government in that province. Such an option, advocated by the likes of Ted Morton and Stephen Harper, would see Alberta take steps to make full use of its Constitutional powers, much as Quebec has done.

Related Topics:
Alberta Agenda - Ted Morton - Stephen Harper

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Fears over the separation of Quebec have recently gained renewed importance as the Bloc Québécois, a secessionist party that had, until recently, been seen as a spent force, have seen their fortunes reversed by revelations of alleged massive corruption and misspending in Quebec by the Liberal Government of Canada. Their increased support has come at the expense of the Liberal Party, the only viable federalist party in the province.

Related Topics:
Bloc Québécois - Quebec

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