How to Fix Canada's Political Parties: The Liberals

The Liberals need to move beyond rigid ideology to embrace new ideas and innovation.

How would Canada’s role in the world differ from its current course if the Liberal party was in power? This is a question I ask myself often. I’m frustrated with the Conservative government’s lack of insight and experience on most foreign policy files, but when I look across the House at the Liberal party for an alternative vision, I’m left wanting.

It is surprising that we have at least two individuals on the Liberal bench who are globally-recognized thought leaders – Michael Ignatieff and Bob Rae – but neither seems able to translate his international experience into a compelling vision for Canada in the world. Their heads seem so entrenched in the gamesmanship of oppositional politics that they have suppressed what makes them interesting and unique.

If I could change one thing about the Liberals, it would be to unleash the intellectual and creative thinking within the party. I long for a party that embraces ideas and innovation, that sidesteps rigid ideology and understands the global dynamics that shape our economy and environment in the 21st century. I want a party that authentically engages with Canadians, takes an open-source approach to policy-making, and reaches out beyond the 613 and 416 area codes. I want a party that can demonstrate leadership by proposing solutions to global issues such as climate change and nuclear disarmament, while recognizing the importance of open and fair trade.

I am tired of hearing that “it’s the economy, stupid” or that “all elections are local” to justify our parochial political culture. We desperately need a party in this country that isn’t afraid to present a bold vision of a smart, globally-connected country – a party that can transcend the old right-left dichotomies and build a vibrant, forward-looking platform through a genuine engagement with Canadians. Is that the Liberal party? No, not in its current form – but could it be?