Critical Minerals, Geopolitics and National Security
Dates
September 22, 2025
Length of Course
3 hours
Delivery Method
Online
Cost
$425 CAD
Series discount: $1,400
Summary
There is a geopolitical race on to develop critical mineral value chains. For Western nations this race is driven in part by a situation of worrisome dependency on China, amidst deepening tensions between the United States and China. Access to critical minerals is understood as essential for the transition to a green economy and to sustain technological advances in defence capabilities and other high-tech sectors. Canada has significant potential as a critical minerals power, but faces challenges across the spectrum of the critical minerals value chain. We will examine where Canadian strengths and weaknesses lie in developing a domestic critical minerals economy and the interface with broader geopolitical issues.
This masterclass is offered as part of the National Security Masterclass Series 2025/2.
Masterclass Series
The Balsillie Executive Institute is continuing its innovative series of national security masterclasses. Key topical issues reflect a changing national and global security environment and the threats and challenges facing Canada.
Each masterclass features an intensive, fast-paced analysis of the issues, led by Dr. Wesley Wark. The key learning objective of the masterclass is to equip students 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. Masterclasses can be taken individually or as a complete series at a discounted rate.
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.