IX. Canada and Security in Northern Europe

Abstract

Canada’s post-war international policy has been deeply shaped by atlanticism – a multi-faceted connection to NATO. The Alliance has, of course, afforded Canada core protections and these considerations have driven much of Canada’s connection with NATO. However, Canada’s fondness for the Alliance goes beyond purely defensive concerns; other elements have sustained Canadian support for NATO even when hardsecurity concerns have waned and Canada’s views have diverged from those of its allies. Key among these softer ties, the Alliance also represents a ‘community of shared values’ created by transatlantic familial relations, cultural ties and trade with Europe – especially with the UK and France, Canada’s two foundational linguistic communities. Beyond this, NATO has offered Canada ‘a seat at the most important allied table in the world’ and a strong voice in the world’s foremost multilateral defence forum. In doing so, NATO has provided Canada with a European counterweight to US security interests, somewhat moderating the US’s otherwise dominant voice in Canadian defence and security discussions. Thus, while hard-security concerns drove Canada’s involvement in the creation of and continued participation in NATO during the Cold War, these other benefits helped sustain Canada’s strong