Second Century Commission on Canada

The Second Century Commission on Canada–United States Relations will help shape the future strategic partnership between the two North American neighbours. Supported by the Max Bell School of Public Policy at McGill University, the Center for Canada–U.S. Relations at the Johns Hopkins School for Advanced International Studies, and the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), the Commission is being struck on the 100th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1926.

Over the past century, Canada and the United States have built one of the world’s closest and most durable relationships, grounded in shared interests and values, integrated continental defense and security, strong trade and economic ties, sound environmental practices and robust people-to-people links. As the partnership enters its second century, emerging geopolitical, economic, technological, and environmental challenges demand a new bilateral vision for the future.

Leadership

Co-chairs

LISA RAITT

Former Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister

JANE HARMAN

Former United States Representative

Under the leadership of co-chairs Lisa Raitt and Jane Harman, the bi-national Commission will bring together more than a dozen prominent Canadians and Americans to develop a forward-looking agenda for relations between the two countries. It will examine medium- to long-term opportunities for cooperation across key strategic areas including business and trade, defence and security, energy and critical minerals, technology and education. It will foster binational dialogue, generate innovative policy ideas, and build networks of leaders and experts committed to deeper bilateral cooperation.

The Commission’s work will be supported by three executive directors: Professor Christopher Sands from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), Professor Vincent Rigby from McGill University’s Max Bell School of Public Policy and Dr. Paul Samson, President of CIGI. Professor Jennifer Welsh, Director of the Max Bell School of Public Policy, will serve as Editor-in-Chief for the Commission’s work.

Executive Directors

CHRISTOPHER SANDS

Professor, Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS)

VINCENT RIGBY

Professor, Max Bell School of Public Policy, McGill University

PAUL SAMSON

President, Centre for International Governance Innovation

Four in-person Commission meetings will take place in Ottawa, Baltimore, Montreal, and Washington in 2026 and 2027. The commission will produce a final report with policy recommendations by the end of 2027.

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