This colloquium seeks to analyze the strategic implications of the upcoming U.S. presidential elections on the landscape of international relations, with a particular focus on Canada’s position and strategies. At a time of significant political change in the U.S., we will explore how the election results could reshape global alliances, foreign policies, and international security frameworks by exploring different possible scenarios. The first panel aims to explore the challenges posed by public distrust of institutions, the rise of misinformation, engendering an era of post-truth that intensifies social and political tensions, leading to an escalation of violence. The second panel focuses on the repercussions of a potential American withdrawal from international institutions, signaling a shift towards a more unilateral approach or one based on ad hoc alliances by various states, which could call into question established international norms and rules. It aims to analyze the consequences of this evolution for the international community, and the role of countries like Canada in this new paradigm. Finally, the last panel takes place in a context where the evolution of American policy could lead to a significant change in global leadership. What actions should be envisaged to counter the absence of the United States? International cooperation and diplomacy.

Free Registration

Conference Agenda:

9:00 – 9:15: Opening remarks

9:15 – 10:15: Keynote speaker

10:15 – 10:30: Health break

10:30 – 12:00: Round Table – The Evolving Strategic Environment in a Changing Political World

We’re facing an ever-changing world, where geopolitical dynamics are rapidly evolving, shaping the international landscape. In view of the upcoming U.S. elections and the various scenarios anticipated following a change of leadership, this round table aims to discuss Canada’s strategic issues in relation to the research themes at the heart of the research initiatives identified by our partners.

12:00 – 13:00: Lunch

13:00 – 14:30: Panel 1 – The Post-Truth Era

The contemporary political environment is marked by public distrust of the legitimacy of knowledge and public institutions, shaped by hybrid media, misinformation and contestation. A worrying consequence of this post-truth era is the increase in violence in response to these contested political environments. Social and political tensions are intensifying, fueled by polarized and often manipulated narratives, creating a climate conducive to conflict escalation and radicalization. In such a context, this panel highlights the challenges faced by countries like Canada, seeking to strengthen their resilience in the face of these political and social pressures.

14:30 – 14:45: Health break

15:00 – 16:30: Panel 2 – The Weakening of International Institutions (Post-Rule)

With the upcoming US presidential elections, it is possible to anticipate a potential change in the international order, more specifically in relation to a disengagement of the United States from international institutions. Instead of relying on institutions such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization or various regional alliances to resolve conflicts and manage global affairs, many states are considering following their own interests unilaterally or through ad hoc alliances, ignoring established rules and norms. This panel aims to explore the implications of this paradigm shift for the international community as a whole, but also what avenues Canada can contribute in such a context of weakening international institutions.

16:30 – 16:45: Closing remarks

17:00 – 18:30: Networking Event