DAVOS, Switzerland – In a world increasingly defined by great power competition and a fraying international order, Canada is positioning itself as a key advocate for a new form of multilateralism – one built on the strength of middle powers. Prime Minister Mark Carney, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 20, 2026, outlined a vision for what he termed a “principled and pragmatic” path forward, emphasizing the importance of collective action among nations that share a commitment to human rights, sustainable development, and the rule of law. This strategy of “중견국 연대” (middle power solidarity), or “the shrimp gather” as some observers have quipped, is gaining traction as larger geopolitical tensions escalate.
Carney’s address, titled “Principled and Pragmatic: Canada’s Path,” comes at a critical juncture. He argued that the post-Cold War era of relative stability is over, replaced by a more volatile landscape where geopolitical rivalry is intensifying and the rules-based international order is weakening. “We are reminded daily that we live in an age of great power competition,” Carney stated, according to reports from the forum. “The rules-based order is fading, and the strong do what they can, and the weak suffer what they must.” This sentiment echoes the words of Václav Havel, the Czech dissident, who described a society sustained not by force, but by a collective willingness to participate in a shared illusion.
A Shift in Global Dynamics
The Canadian Prime Minister’s speech resonated with many in Davos who are concerned about the growing polarization of the international system. The rise of protectionist policies, exemplified by recent disputes over tariffs – including Canada’s strong opposition to tariffs over Greenland, as reported by BNN Bloomberg – and the increasing assertiveness of major powers are creating a more unpredictable and dangerous world. Carney’s call for middle powers to step up and defend shared values is seen as a direct response to these challenges.
The concept of middle power diplomacy isn’t new, but its urgency has increased. These nations, while lacking the military or economic might of superpowers, possess significant diplomatic and economic influence. Canada, with its strong international relationships and commitment to multilateralism, is well-positioned to lead this effort. The speech highlighted Canada’s belief that countries like itself are “not powerless” and have the “capacity to build a new order that embodies our values: respect for human rights, sustainable development, solidarity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.”
The Power of Honesty and Collective Action
A central theme of Carney’s address was the importance of honesty in navigating the current geopolitical landscape. He argued that “the power of the less powerful begins with honesty” – a willingness to acknowledge the realities of a changing world and to speak truth to power. This honesty, he suggested, is essential for building trust and forging effective coalitions among like-minded nations.
The speech likewise drew attention to the erosion of the rules-based international order. Carney warned that the principles of international law and cooperation are under threat, and that a return to a more anarchic world is a real possibility. He emphasized the need for middle powers to work together to strengthen international institutions and to uphold the values that underpin a stable and peaceful world. According to a summary of the speech provided by Abiture, Carney stressed that this new order must be built on respect for human rights, sustainable development, solidarity, and the sovereignty of states.
Echoes of Past Concerns
Carney’s remarks also appeared to subtly address concerns about the previous administration in the United States. As noted by Choi Bo-sik’s Media, the speech was interpreted by some as a veiled reference to the Trump administration’s more unilateralist policies and its sometimes strained relationship with Canada. The phrase “the old order is not returning” suggests a clear break from past approaches to international relations.
The speech’s emphasis on the dangers of “living in a lie” – referencing Havel’s analysis of communist regimes – resonated with those who believe that a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths is essential for effective policymaking. The analogy of the vegetable vendor dutifully displaying a meaningless slogan highlights the dangers of complacency and the importance of individual courage in challenging the status quo.
The Canadian Prime Minister’s call for middle power solidarity is likely to be a key theme in Canada’s foreign policy in the years to approach. As the global landscape continues to shift, the role of nations like Canada in promoting cooperation and defending shared values will turn into increasingly important. The next major opportunity to assess the progress of this initiative will be at the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil, where Carney is expected to further elaborate on his vision for a more stable and equitable international order.
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