In My Opinion: Through unity and action towards a better future for all, this is Canada’s time to lead

By SUMAN ROY

The re-election of Donald Trump has shaken the global order, underscoring the urgent need for Canada to take a leadership role on the world stage.

With actions like the United States withdrawing from the WHO and the Paris Climate Accord, the global community faces significant setbacks. These challenges demand a response, and Canada must step forward—not as a fractured nation but as a united leader focused on advancing global progress.

To seize this opportunity, Canada must leave behind the divisive partisan politics that threaten to derail meaningful action. The focus should not be on who did or didn’t do a good job in the past, but on what needs to be done to secure our country’s and the world’s future.

This is a moment to unite, prioritize our shared goals, and make Canada a beacon of progress and collaboration.

Canadians have shown before that we can stand strong and independent in the face of pressure. During Prime Minister Jean Chrétien’s time in office, Canada made the principled decision not to join the U.S.-led war in Iraq. While that choice came with consequences, it also demonstrated Canada’s ability to prioritize its values over external pressures.

This moment in history is a reminder of the power of unity and the importance of standing firm on decisions that reflect our collective integrity and vision. Just as we stood together then, we must now rise above partisan divisions and focus on doing what is right for Canada and the world.

Canada’s leadership must be rooted in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a roadmap to a more equitable and sustainable future.

With just five years left to meet the 2030 targets, Canada cannot afford to falter. Our Permanent Representative to the UN serves as President of ECOSOC, and the Prime Minister co-chairs the SDG Stimulus Leaders’ Group. These roles position us to champion the SDGs globally, but leadership requires more than representation. Bold action and investment are needed to ensure “No One Is Left Behind.”

Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time, and Canada’s commitment to addressing it must go beyond rhetoric.

Policies like the carbon tax and investments in clean energy infrastructure are critical, but we must do more.

A comprehensive climate program that includes increased funding for renewable energy, support for northern communities facing disproportionate climate impacts, and a renewed commitment to the Paris Climate Accord is essential.

This is not the time to shift our goalposts because of political expediency or pressures from south of the border. Canada must set an example by prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term gains.

Canada’s success as a global leader depends on our ability to unite as a nation. Political polarization and partisan bickering weaken our resolve and distract us from the real issues at hand. Canadians must reject divisive politics and focus on electing leaders who prioritize investments that benefit everyone.

This is not about voting out a government because of dissatisfaction with a single leader or party—it is about choosing leadership that understands the importance of investing in our collective future.

Leadership is not about partisan victories; it is about ensuring that Canada remains resilient, compassionate, and forward-thinking.

The question voters needed to ask in this election was not, “Who do I dislike less?” but, “Who has the vision and plan to ensure that no one is left behind?”

Canada has a unique opportunity to lead in advancing health equity, addressing food insecurity, and combating climate change.

Nearly 1.5 million Canadians visited food banks in 2022, reflecting the urgency of tackling domestic and global hunger. By investing in agricultural innovation and reducing food waste, Canada can strengthen its own food systems while contributing to global resilience.

Similarly, by advancing SDGs and climate initiatives, we can secure a future where our children and grandchildren thrive in a sustainable and equitable world.

The world is watching, and Canada’s time to lead is now.

To rise to the occasion, we must advance the SDGs by increasing investments in initiatives that eradicate poverty, improve health and education, and ensure global equity. Expanding funding for renewable energy, strengthening northern climate infrastructure, and maintaining a strong commitment to the Paris Climate Accord are equally essential.

Above all, Canadians must unite beyond partisanship and elect leaders with a clear vision for the future and the ability to foster unity.

Leadership must focus on long-term investments that ensure “No One Is Left Behind.”

Canadians are resilient, progressive, and compassionate. By rejecting divisive politics and focusing on shared goals, we can reaffirm our place as a global leader.

This is not about Trudeau or any single party; it is about Canada stepping into a leadership role that the world desperately needs.

Together, we can build a better future—not just for ourselves but for generations to come.

• Suman Roy was the Official Canadian Delegate to the United Nations at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development 2024, and is the Executive Director of Feed Scarborough.