How the World Sees Canada

The Mark Radio ep.31: In light of Canada's failed bid for the UN Security Council, is it time to rethink our foreign policy strategy?

This October, for the first time since 1946, Canada lost a bid for a temporary seat on the United Nations Security Council. Portugal pulled off a surprise victory, shocking those who thought the seat was a done deal for Canada. In the wake of the decision, pundits and politicians have been hurling accusations: the Tories blamed Ignatieff's public criticism of the government, while Harper's opponents attacked the PM's stance on climate change and foreign policy.

Whatever the reason, it's a sign the world doesn't think Canada deserves a place among those setting global priorities anymore.

On the show this week, host Chris Mitchell talks with three experts on Canada's place on the international stage, and what we need to do to play a major part on it again.

First up, a conversation with Daryl Copeland. In his 30 years as a foreign diplomat, he learned that sound international policy only goes so far, if you don't have the ear of influential people who will support it.

Next, Saeed Rahnema argues that Canadian foreign policy (or lack thereof) is the cause of the lost UN seat.

And finally, Stephen Lewis explains why the UN matters, and why it matters for Canada to have a voice in it.

(Run-time: 28m45.)

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