Federalism

Federal states around the globe seem to exist precariously, and politicians and academics every where look to Canada as a model of federalism. Yet our system of organization and governance is also under strain. Quebec nationalism, First Nations’ claims, the regionalization of party politics, and the uneven and shifting delivery of essential services have all altered the face of federal politics. Federalism explains how Canada came to be a federation, what the current challenges to the federal system are, and how we could fortify it. Jennifer Smith argues that a reformed federalism could be part of the solution to the state of Canadian democracy. She examines the origins of Canadian federalism and its special characteristics, then analyzes these features against the democratic benchmarks of responsiveness, inclusiveness, and participation. Finding that Canadian federalism falls short in each area, Smith recommends changes ranging from virtual regionalism to a Council of the Federation that includes Aboriginal representatives. This revealing account of Canadian federalism is crucial reading for students and scholars of Canadian politics, politicians and policy makers, and those who care about the health of Canadian democracy.