Canada's Vulnerability to Far-Right Extremism

By Vanida Plamondon

Far-right movements in Canada represent a multifaceted threat to the country's social fabric, democratic institutions, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. These movements pose significant systemic challenges that must be addressed to safeguard Canadian society. This is a report that I will be submitting to Canadian politicians. Some politicians, for whatever reason, do not wish to be notified of my evidence-based policy reports, and are listed on my policy reports blog.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Vanida Plamondon
• Release date: Mar 5, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224750320

Book preview

Canada's Vulnerability to

Far-Right Extremism

Vanida Plamondon

Table of Contents

Introduction

Interdependence with the United States

Systemic Challenges Posed by Far-Right Movements

Systemic Issues Due to the Interdependence of Canada and the United States

The Dissemination of Extremism and its Infiltration of Political Discourse

Radicalization

Hate Speech Legislation Has Not Been Very Effective

Combating Far-Right Extremism

Far-Right Canadian Conservative Politicians Have Never Been on the Side of Canadians

Far-Right Movements Have Been Bolstered by Liberal and Democratic Politics

The Importance of Critical Thinking and Informed Decision-Making in Politics

Negative Campaigning is Unreliable and Hurts Democracy

Vanida’s First Recommendation: Do Not Support Genocide

Vanida’s Second Recommendation: Stop Catering to Right Wing Factions and Voters

Vanida’s Final Recommendation: Implement Policy That is Demonstrative of Ethical, Productive, and Prosperous Governance

Abraham Lincoln is the Political Archetype of How to Face Far-Right Extremism

Final Thoughts

Further Reading (References)

Appendix - Active Social Constructionism

Current Proto-Form

Basic Tenets

Harmful Social Constructs

Systematic intervention

Society and Active Social Constructionism

Practical Application

Individual Activism

Institutional Engagement

Governance and Policy

Resistance

A Call to Action

A Vision for the Future

Further Reading (References)

Introduction

Far-right movements in Canada represent diverse ideologies and groups, ranging from radical democratic to extreme and violent factions. At their core, these movements share a political sociology under the New Right umbrella term, characterized by a rejection of liberal internationalism and a desire to redefine conservative politics. While far-right groups in Canada may vary in their specific agendas and tactics, they are united by their opposition to multiculturalism, immigration, and perceived threats to national identity.

Historically, Canadian conservative governments have aligned with far-right policies, particularly during the tenure of the Harper government. Under Stephen Harper's leadership from 2006 to 2015, Canada shifted towards policies that resonated with far-right sentiments. Harper's government emphasized immigration control, denouncing Quebec's calls for distinct province status and reducing the scope of the Canadian welfare state. Additionally, the Harper government initiated a retreat from human rights by eliminating hate speech protections and engaging in fear-mongering tactics to bolster support among conservative constituents.

Recent trends indicate a resurgence of far-right movements in Canada, amplified by the socioeconomic disruptions wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has created fertile ground for the proliferation of far-right ideologies, with grievances over government-imposed restrictions on personal freedoms fueling dissent and radicalization. Groups such as the Freedom Convoy in Ottawa capitalized on these grievances, initially framing their protests as challenging public health mandates but swiftly evolving into broader anti-government occupations. The pandemic's exacerbation of existing socioeconomic inequalities and political polarization has provided fertile ground for far-right movements to recruit and radicalize disaffected individuals.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on far-right movements extends beyond domestic boundaries, with global events and narratives influencing their rhetoric and mobilization efforts. The interconnected nature of social media platforms has facilitated the transnational dissemination of far-right ideologies, aligning Canadian groups with like-minded counterparts abroad. The intersection of far-right extremism with global events, such as the rise of populist leaders like Donald Trump in the United States, has further encouraged far-right movements in Canada.

As Canada grapples with the resurgence of far-right movements, it must confront the historical context of conservative governments' alignment with far-right policies alongside the evolving challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing the systemic issues that underpin the rise of far-right ideologies, including socioeconomic inequalities and political polarization, is essential for safeguarding democratic institutions and upholding the principles of pluralism and inclusivity.

Interdependence with the United States

The relationship between Canada and the United States is marked by a complex interplay of cultural, economic, and political factors significantly influencing Canadian identity and values. Despite Canada's distinctiveness as a nation, its proximity to the United States, its shared language, and its cultural similarities have forged deep ties with its southern neighbour. Consequently, changes in the political climate in the United States can have profound implications for Canada, shaping its collective identity and influencing domestic political dynamics.

Canada's susceptibility to American ideologies is evident in its society and governance. The dominance of American cultural narratives and values, disseminated through media, entertainment, and popular culture, can overshadow Canadian identity, diluting distinct Canadian characteristics. This cultural hegemony can contribute to the normalization of far-right ideologies imported from the United States, blurring the lines between domestic and foreign influences on Canadian politics.

Moreover, the influence of the American political climate on Canadian identity cannot be understated. The polarization and divisiveness witnessed in American politics often spill over into Canadian discourse, shaping public perceptions and attitudes towards issues such as immigration, multiculturalism, and national identity. As Canadian politicians and media outlets engage with American political narratives, they contribute to the transnational dissemination of ideologies, including far-right sentiments, that challenge the traditional Canadian ethos of diversity and inclusion.

The role of social media in facilitating the transnational dissemination of far-right ideologies cannot be overlooked. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube provide far-right groups with unprecedented reach and access to audiences across borders. Canadian far-right movements leverage social media to amplify their message, aligning their