Trudeau Advocates for Canadian Diplomatic Influence at Davos Soft Power Summit
At the prestigious World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivered a compelling keynote address emphasizing the critical importance of Canada's diplomatic influence, commonly referred to as 'soft power.' His speech took place at Brand Finance's Global Soft Power Summit, where he was observed by his partner, international pop superstar Katy Perry, who watched from the front row with apparent interest.
Global Instability and Democratic Backsliding
Trudeau painted a sobering picture of the current international landscape, stating that the world is entering a 'new world era' characterized by instability not witnessed since the conclusion of the Second World War. He explicitly noted that the '80 years of stability and prosperity' following that conflict have come to an end. Furthermore, he warned that democracy is experiencing significant 'backsliding' across the globe, including within what he described as the world's 'strongest democracies'—a clear, though indirect, reference to political tensions in the United States.
The Canadian Approach: Convening and Conversation
Central to Trudeau's argument was the assertion that Canada's greatest strength lies not in military or economic domination, but in its unique ability to foster dialogue and collaboration. 'What we've always done best as a country... is an ability to convene people, pull groups together and be part of real conversations where we're looking for solutions that make sense and align with our values,' he told the audience of approximately 100 attendees and journalists. He clarified that Canada does not aspire to 'run the world,' but rather to maintain influence and a seat at the metaphorical global table, particularly advocating for increased engagement with African nations.
Soft Power in Action: From Trade to Personal Anecdotes
Trudeau connected the concept of soft power to practical policy and personal experience. He championed the need for enhanced free trade in an era trending toward protectionism and stressed the importance of building strong relationships with allied countries. To illustrate Canadian resilience and soft power, he shared a personal anecdote from his relationship with Katy Perry. He recounted a date in Montreal where she attempted to order an American whiskey, only to be informed by the server that the establishment no longer stocked American alcohol—a subtle response, he suggested, to political tensions. 'That's an example of Canadians standing up for themselves. That's an example of soft power,' Trudeau remarked.
Contrast with Current Leadership and Progressive Advocacy
The former prime minister's speech also served to reiterate the progressive causes that defined his tenure in office, including:
- Environmental sustainability and climate action
- Commitments to diversity and inclusion
- The advancement of human rights and women's rights
This public advocacy stands in stark contrast to the reported approach of his successor, Prime Minister Mark Carney. According to the report, Carney has indicated a preference for discussing such values privately 'when appropriate,' rather than promoting them internationally 'with a bullhorn.' Carney was scheduled to deliver his own keynote address to the World Economic Forum general assembly later that same Tuesday afternoon.
The event underscored a ongoing dialogue about Canada's role on the world stage, framing diplomatic influence and the power of convening as essential tools for navigating a period of unprecedented global challenge and change.
