Parliamentary Symposium: The Future of Middle Powers After the Rupture: Perspectives from Canada and Beyond
This parliamentary symposium, held in Ottawa, CAN, focuses on the evolving role of middle powers in a fractured global landscape. It aims to gather insights from various perspectives, particularly highlighting the experiences of CAN, to understand how these nations can navigate and influence international relations amidst significant geopolitical shifts. The discussions are designed to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing middle powers in the current international order.
Committees & topics
Why it matters
The concept of middle powers, traditionally defined by their capacity to influence rather than dominate, is under intense scrutiny. As the global order experiences a 'rupture' – characterized by increased multipolarity, great power competition, and the erosion of established norms – the agency and strategic choices of states like CAN, AUS, DEU, and KOR become critically important. Their ability to form coalitions, champion multilateralism, and advocate for rules-based international systems can either mitigate or exacerbate global instability. This symposium directly addresses this pivotal moment, seeking to define new pathways for these nations.
The symposium's focus on parliamentary perspectives is particularly relevant. Legislators often serve as a crucial link between domestic priorities and foreign policy objectives. Their engagement in discussions about middle power diplomacy can lead to more robust and democratically legitimate foreign policy frameworks. Understanding how parliamentary bodies in different middle powers perceive and respond to global challenges offers valuable insights into the future trajectory of international cooperation and conflict resolution. The outcomes of such deliberations can inform policy-making that strengthens the collective influence of middle powers.
How to prepare
Attendees should prepare by familiarizing themselves with contemporary theories of international relations, particularly those concerning middle power diplomacy and the dynamics of a multipolar world. A review of CAN's historical foreign policy stances and its engagement with international institutions will provide a strong foundation. Consider how concepts such as 'soft power' and 'niche diplomacy' apply in the current geopolitical context, especially as traditional alliances are re-evaluated and new partnerships emerge.
To maximize engagement, participants could research the foreign policy priorities of other prominent middle powers, such as AUS, DEU, KOR, NLD, and IND. Understanding their strategic interests and their approaches to issues like trade, security, and climate change will facilitate more nuanced discussions. Furthermore, reflecting on the challenges posed by major powers like USA, CHN, and RUS, and how these influence the strategic space for middle powers, will be beneficial. This preparation will enable participants to contribute effectively to discussions on how middle powers can collectively shape a more stable and prosperous international environment.
Country perspectives
Where the most-relevant 9 countries stand on the core issues in play. Click through for the full country profile.
CanadaA proponent of multilateralism and a key example of a middle power seeking to influence global affairs through cooperation and diplomacy.
Role in topic
CAN serves as a central case study for the symposium, offering its historical and contemporary experiences as a middle power navigating complex international dynamics. Its perspective is crucial for understanding the challenges and opportunities in the current global environment.
United StatesA major global power whose actions significantly impact the strategic space and foreign policy choices of middle powers.
Role in topic
The foreign policy of USA, as a dominant global actor, directly influences the environment in which middle powers operate. Its relationships with other major powers and its stance on international norms shape the options available to countries like CAN.
ChinaAn emerging global power whose growing influence presents both economic opportunities and geopolitical challenges for middle powers.
Role in topic
The rise of CHN as a global power reconfigures the international system, compelling middle powers to adapt their economic and security strategies. Its actions are a significant factor in the 'rupture' discussed at the symposium.
RussiaA major power whose geopolitical actions contribute to global instability and challenge established international norms.
Role in topic
RUS's foreign policy and military actions are a primary driver of the current 'rupture' in international relations, creating a challenging security environment that middle powers must navigate and respond to.
GermanyA significant European middle power with a strong economic base and a commitment to multilateral institutions.
Role in topic
DEU's experiences as a middle power within the European context provide valuable comparative insights for the symposium, especially regarding economic influence and regional leadership.
AustraliaAn Indo-Pacific middle power actively balancing economic ties with CHN and security alliances with USA.
Role in topic
AUS offers a perspective from the Indo-Pacific, highlighting the complexities of navigating great power competition and maintaining regional stability as a middle power.
South KoreaA technologically advanced middle power facing unique security challenges in East Asia.
Role in topic
KOR's position as a middle power in a highly sensitive geopolitical region provides a distinct lens through which to examine security dilemmas and economic resilience.
IndiaA large and rapidly growing economy increasingly asserting its role as a global player and a key voice from the Global South.
Role in topic
IND's perspective is crucial for understanding the evolving dynamics of middle powers, particularly its growing influence and its strategic autonomy in a multipolar world.
BrazilA prominent South American middle power with significant regional influence and a focus on South-South cooperation.
Role in topic
BRA's experience as a middle power in Latin America offers insights into regional leadership, economic development, and the challenges of asserting influence on the global stage.
Topics & background
The background behind each topic and the actors that shape it.
Global Cooperation in an Era of Strategic Rupture
Key players
- Canada
Self-identified middle power; convener of Ottawa Group and traditional norm entrepreneur
- United States
Anchor of the postwar order whose recent unilateralism has unsettled allies
- China
Revisionist great power promoting alternative cooperation architectures (BRI, GDI, GSI)
- Germany
European economic anchor recalibrating its Zeitenwende and trade exposure
- Australia
Indo-Pacific middle power balancing alliance commitments and economic ties with China
- South Korea
MIKTA member and rising convener on supply-chain and democratic cooperation
Governing Transformative Technologies: AI, Semiconductors, and Dual-Use Innovation
Key players
- United States
Leader in frontier AI and architect of export-control regime against China
- China
Principal technological competitor pursuing self-sufficiency in chips and AI
- Canada
Early AI research hub and co-founder of GPAI; mid-tier regulatory voice
United KingdomHost of inaugural AI Safety Summit and AI Safety Institute
NetherlandsGatekeeper of advanced lithography via ASML; pivotal in chip export controls
- South Korea
Semiconductor manufacturing power and Seoul AI Summit co-host
Reforming Multilateral Institutions Under Strain
Key players
- Canada
Long-standing reform advocate and major UN financial contributor
- United States
Largest funder and veto-holder; ambivalent between reform and disengagement
- China
Rising stakeholder building parallel institutions while expanding influence within UN bodies
- Russia
P5 veto-holder whose actions have catalyzed reform debates on UNSC accountability
- India
Leading G4 claimant for UNSC permanent seat and voice of the Global South
- Brazil
G4 and BRICS member pressing for governance reform of Bretton Woods institutions
Resources
News, lessons, and country profiles to prep for Parliamentary Symposium: The Future of Middle Powers After the Rupture: Perspectives from Canada and Beyond.
Lessons
Bite-sized lessons to build the basics
Courses
Guided courses that go deeper on the topic
The states in play, with the data that shapes their stance