Canadian Unity : where do things stand?
This special edition of Canadian Issues examines the state of national unity at a moment when Canada is once again confronted by old questions in new forms.
Read the full publication
Canadian Issues
Canadian Issues / Thèmes canadiens has been ACS-Metropolis's flagship bilingual publication since 2000. The now-digital editions (bi-annual) showcase short essays and interviews from leading academics across Canada, as well as experts from non-governmental organizations, government and civil society, designed to expand Canadians' knowledge about their country.
Most recent editions
Browse all in the library
The Supreme Court of Canada at 150
On November 18, 1875, the Supreme Court of Canada was ceremonially inaugurated with a banquet at Rideau Hall hosted by the governor general of the day, Lord Dufferin. He toasted the six newly sworn justices by remarking that the establishment of the high court of the land “marks another epoch in the history of the Dominion; it exhibits another proof and pledge of the stability of our Confederation, and of the solidifying process which has knit into a homogeneous and patriotic community, the inhabitants of what a few years ago were the scattered districts of Great Britain’s North American possessions.” The 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court of Canada in 2025 invites reflection on the impact of its most influential rulings, analysis of its strengths and weaknesses, and assessments of its overall role in shaping Canadian society and identity. The occasion also offers a timely opportunity to compare Canada’s top court with that of other countrie – particularly its nearest neighbour, where the U.S. Supreme Court is so deeply enmeshed in partisan politics – and to consider the inherent tensions between political and judicial power in Canada, along with the levels of trust Canadians have in the apex body of their justice system.
Read the full publication
The Uneasy State Of Canada–U.S. Relations
In this volume of essays, contributors were invited to share their thoughts and insights about the suddenly turbulent relations between Canada and the United States. More specifically, with the distantly historical War of 1812 as a reference point, it was noted that “since then, with some exceptions, Canada and the United States have maintained a long-standing relationship marked by shared borders, important commercial and cultural ties, and vital defence and national security partnerships... But with the reaction sparked by President Trump’s incessant provocations, are we witnessing an important shift in the relationship? What might this change imply for our economic ties, border security and other aspects of our shared future?” The response from our stellar lineup of writers explores all of this and much more. This edition of Canadian Issues/Thèmes Canadiens offers a range of visceral reactions, probing reflections and thoughtful strategizing as Canada’s new Liberal government under Prime Minister Mark Carney – along with provincial and territorial premiers reeling from the imposition of U.S. tariffs on Canadian exports – charts a course through choppy boundary waters.
Read the full publication