Canada and Europe share more than common interests. Their relationship is rooted in a long history of political and human ties and in a common commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Canada has been an observer State to the Council of Europe since 1996, and the Canadian Parliament has held observer status with the Parliamentary Assembly since 1997. These ties provide a solid foundation for a closer relationship at a moment when democratic partners increasingly need one another.
The Russian Federation’s war of aggression against Ukraine, growing geopolitical tensions, foreign interference, transnational repression, and the rapid development of new technologies are challenging the international order. Europe and Canada have a shared interest in defending the principles on which this order is built and in ensuring that democratic States act together rather than in isolation.
The Reykjavík Declaration of 2023 called for enhanced dialogue with observer States and democratic partners beyond Europe. The Assembly should seize this momentum to give new impetus to its relationship with Canada and create more opportunities for political exchange and joint action.
Canada’s signature of the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law (CETS No. 225) and of the Convention establishing an International Claims Commission for Ukraine (CETS No. 229) already demonstrates the potential of closer engagement.
The Assembly should therefore explore how the relationship between Canada and the Council of Europe can enter a new phase: by intensifying parliamentary dialogue, making greater use of Canada’s observer status, and identifying concrete areas in which both sides can act together. A closer partnership should not only respond to present challenges but also reinforce the long-standing ties between Canada and Europe and their common commitment to a democratic and rules-based international order.