The U.S. defects from the community of liberal democracies

Breaking the links between allies: photo courtesy of the Michigan Times

Our conversation on democratic solidarity began in the summer of 2018. Shocked by the manner in which President Trump had tried to sabotage the G7 Summit in Charlevoix, two foreign ministers asked what happens if the U.S. leaves the community of liberal democratic nations? When he returns to power on Monday, we will be one big step closer to that scenario.

This project arose to answer that question. The answer is deeper democratic solidarity - to reinforce the ties between Canada, Germany and other democracies, to protect our citizens and their interests.

President Trump has promised to begin his term with an attack on the Canadian economy, treating us on a par with China. But he is also moving rapidly to undermine U.S. democracy, gutting key institutions and threatening independent media and civil society organizations.

This is a moment for Canadians to stand up for our country, by being the democracy we aspire to be: strong, inclusive and united in relationship with one another and with the land we share. Join us as we build the solidarity we need to meet the challenge head on.

• Ben Rowswell