Like globalization and the rules-based multilateral order, the North American idea risks falling victim to larger geo-political forces. But even in the absence of energetic political leadership, we can still make progress, by building on existing initiatives, to the mutual benefit of all three nations, Canada, the United States and Mexico.
If COVID and climate were not enough, the international agenda is now subsumed with the developing new Cold War between autocracies and democracies that in Ukraine is now a hot war.
For reasons of national security, there is increased momentum for decoupling of global supply chains as reliability, resilience and redundance trump best price and just-in-time delivery.
This essay is part of the series, "Strengthening North American Ties - A Must For Competitiveness," by the Wilson Center's Mexico and Canada Institutes.
About the Author
Colin Robertson
Mexico Institute
The Mexico Institute seeks to improve understanding, communication, and cooperation between Mexico and the United States by promoting original research, encouraging public discussion, and proposing policy options for enhancing the bilateral relationship. A binational Advisory Board, chaired by Luis Téllez and Earl Anthony Wayne, oversees the work of the Mexico Institute. Read more
Canada Institute
The mission of the Wilson Center's Canada Institute is to raise the level of knowledge of Canada in the United States, particularly within the Washington, DC policy community. Research projects, initiatives, podcasts, and publications cover contemporary Canada, US-Canadian relations, North American political economy, and Canada's global role as it intersects with US national interests. Read more
