The Canada is immersed in an election campaign that commenced on March 23, 2025, aiming to convince voters about which political party is best equipped to lead a country undergoing profound transformations. This campaign comes on the heels of significant demographic shifts, economic changes, and national discussions around housing, immigration, and Canadian-American relations.
One of the most striking developments in Canada's recent history has been the influx of immigrants. Richard Saillant, an economist and public policy consultant associated with the Donald J. Savoie Institute in Moncton, noted that over three million new immigrants have crossed the Canadian border in a turnaround that echoes the levels previously seen only within a decade. Saillant pointed out that this growth has played a crucial role in slowing Canada's aging population while simultaneously exacerbating the housing crisis.
“In the last three years, we've observed a tripling of internal migration flows within Canada,” Saillant explained during an interview on ICI PREMIÈRE's Tout terrain show. “People are relocating to cities like the Maritimes, areas traditionally less favorable for newcomers due to price differences.” This trend indicates that more Canadians, both established citizens and newcomers, are seeking out regions where housing is more affordable despite the rising pressures in metropolitan centers.
However, the data is revealing a potentially troubling trend. Saillant expressed concerns that Canada might face a demographic decline if permanent immigration targets are further lowered, a situation not seen for half a century. Such a decline could spell difficulties for economic growth and the country's future.
Another pressing issue is the political orientation among the youth, which has undergone a substantial shift, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Eric Montigny, an associate professor and political science researcher at Laval University, highlighted this change. “In 2015, the election of Justin Trudeau was significantly bolstered by a wave of young voters. However, we are now witnessing a younger generation more focused on economic issues,” Montigny observed.
This change in political fervor is underscored by the challenges youth face in today's economy and housing market. Montigny noted, “The pandemic disrupted their economic outlook and the implications are profound. Young people are more aware of precarious job prospects and the housing crisis.”
The growing economic anxieties among young voters could influence outcomes in the upcoming elections, provided they are mobilized to vote. Montigny expressed cautious optimism, stating, “The upcoming elections will heavily depend on youth participation if they choose to come out and vote.”
With tensions brewing in Canadian-American relations, another facet of the election will likely focus on nationalism and trade. As Valérie Lapointe-Gagnon, an associate professor of history at the Faculty Saint-Jean of the University of Alberta pointed out, historical conflicts between the two nations have been common, ranging from tariff disputes to broader cultural tensions.
She recounted, “In 1971, President Nixon imposed tariffs of 10% on all imports, marking a significant moment in U.S.-Canada relations.” The evolving dynamic today seems to not only rest on trade agreements but also cultural sentiments, as heightened tensions have provoked a resurgence of Canadian nationalism.
Amid ongoing trade disputes, Canadian sentiments are shifting. “There’s a notable rise in Canadian nationalism that few predicted,” Montigny remarked, evaluating the current political landscape. He also noted that Prime Minister Trudeau had once championed the idea of a post-national state but now finds Canadians redefining their identities at an accelerated pace.
As relations between Canada and the U.S. deteriorate amidst this climate of tariffs and economic competition, a sense of unity among Canadians is manifesting. Montigny likened this movement to a renewal of patriotism akin to a “rallying cry” for national identity, as protests have emerged in response to American tariff threats.
In conclusion, as Canadians head into this election, they face a complex mix of demographic challenges, shifting political landscapes, and evolving national identity. The interplay between immigration, housing, economic anxiety, and nationalism will shape not only the electoral results but also the direction of the country in the years to come.
