The International Rise of Far-Right Movements and Its Impact on Canada

Abstract

Radical conservative movements that have gained significant popularity throughout Europe and the United States have put immense pressure on the stability and legitimacy of liberal democratic states and institutions. The conglomeration of far-right groups varies along the spectrum of radical (democratic) to extreme (anti-democratic) to fascist and violent, but all of which share a political sociology under the term ‘New Right’ – and that is their disdain for the liberal international order and desire to redefine conservative politics (whether that be through preserving European ethnocultural identity and opposing immigration, or reasserting white dominance and homogeneity through authoritarianism). This paper explores the various groups, ideologies and political tools used by the far-right to better understand why and how they mobilize in an attempt to weaken liberal societies. Canada is often assumed to be protected from the divisive effects of nationalist populism and disinformation campaigns due to its strong institutions and multicultural identity. However, the rise of the far-right has been festering in Canada for years and the detrimental impact of the pandemic, as well as the government’s political mishaps, have given these groups ample opportunity to embolden and radicalize people. The recent unfolding of the Freedom Convoy in Ottawa transformed from a truckers’ protest challenging public health mandates that took away peoples’ freedoms, to an anti-Trudeau/anti-government occupation calling for the resignation of government officials. The occupation of downtown Ottawa lasted three weeks and ignited protests and border blockades across Canada and throughout the world. The in-depth analysis uncovers the roots of the movement, how it unfolded over the 3-week course and what the responses were from the public, police and government. I also explore its interconnections with the transnational far-right, as well as its implications for Canadian society, security and democracy.