Canada-US Security Relations
Dates
February 23, 2026
Length of Course
3 hours
Delivery Method
Online
Cost
$425 CAD
Summary
The longstanding security partnership between Canada and the United States has been destabilised by policies and approaches taken by the United States during the second administration of President Donald Trump. Canada has faced accusations about border security laxness, punitive tariffs based on alleged US national security concerns, repeated rhetoric about Canada becoming the 51st State, and a US focus on dominance in the Western hemisphere. The masterclass will discuss the strategic options available to Canada to respond to US policy and to reorient our security relations.
This masterclass is offered as part of the National Security Masterclass Series 2026/1.Â
Masterclass Series
The Balsillie Executive Institute series of national security masterclasses continues in 2026.
The series addresses key national security issues for Canada, reflective of a turbulent security environment globally. Each masterclass will feature an intensive, fast-paced analysis of an issue, led by Dr. Wesley Wark. The key learning objective is to equip participants with a critical understanding of the policy challenges involved for each topic.
The masterclasses will be delivered online and run over a three-hour period from 09:00 AM to 12:00 PM ET on select days.Â
Instructor
Wesley Wark is an expert on national security and intelligence issues, in both a Canadian and international context.
He is a fellow of the Balsillie School of International Affairs, a professor emeritus at the University of Toronto/Munk School of Global Affairs, and a senior fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, in Waterloo, where he co-directed a major project on Canadian National Security Strategy.
Format
Intensive, three-hour class divided into key topic components.
Audience
Government of Canada officials, at all levels wishing a better understanding of the issues.
Of particular relevance for officials in the core and extended Canadian national security and intelligence community. Core includes CSIS, CSE, RCMP, DND/CAF, GAC, PCO, CBSA, Public Safety.
Note: Registration is restricted to currently serving Government of Canada officials. Participants who do not meet this criterion may be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis.