Defence Policy in the Canadian Arctic: From Jean Chrétien to Justin Trudeau

Abstract

This chapter traces the evolution of Canadian defence policy related to the Arctic from the release of the Arctic Capabilities Study in 2000 to the release of Strong, Secure, Engaged in 2017. The authors observe that security aspects of Canada’s northern policy have remained remarkably consistent, predicated on a set of basic principles and priorities conceptualized by the military in 2000 as concerns surrounding climate change, northern development, Arctic shipping and geopolitical uncertainty began to refocus attention on the region. Although the Harper government justified its early investments in Arctic defence with “sovereignty on thinning ice” and “use it or lose it” messaging, it largely moved beyond these ideas after 2009 and returned to broader definitions of security that directed a whole-of-government response. Accordingly, successive governments have minimized the Canadian Armed Forces’ need to prepare for a conventional conflict in the North and recast the Forces in a supporting role to other government civilian departments and agencies in managing unconventional safety and security scenarios.