#Canada #Ottawa #CUSMA #Bill C-2 #Future Borders Coalition

Strengthening Canada's Borders During CUSMA Talks

As Canada prepares for crucial discussions regarding the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), experts from policy and law enforcement sectors are advocating for immediate actions to improve border security. These experts highlight the vulnerabilities in Canada’s border control systems that allow transnational organized crime groups to exploit weaknesses, facilitating the illicit movement of dangerous goods such as fentanyl, firearms, and illegal tobacco across the border. This situation not only jeopardizes public safety but also results in substantial financial losses for governments due to uncollected revenues.

Dr. Laura Dawson, the Executive Director of the Future Borders Coalition (FBC), asserts, "The integrity of our border is fundamental to our economic relationship with the United States." She further elaborates that reinforcing Bill C-2 is critical, not just for security, but for maintaining trade efficiency, proactively tackling criminal organizations, and preserving the advantages of border access for legal trade and travel. The FBC emphasizes that Canada must adopt a forward-thinking approach to immigration and trade, ensuring that national security does not act as a bottleneck for legitimate activities.

A report from El Colegio de México underlines that illicit trade significantly hampers the economic stability of CUSMA partner countries. This issue was recognized at a recent meeting in Mexico City, where Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum discussed strategies to combat cross-border organized crime. With mounting pressure from U.S. authorities, including Attorney General Pam Bondi's comments on human trafficking issues at the Canadian border, the Canadian government must demonstrate a commitment to addressing these challenges.

Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of Domestic Policy at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, echoes the sentiments of the experts, stating, "Border security starts at home." He emphasizes that Canada plays a pivotal role in disrupting transnational organized crime that freely operates within its borders. He insists that while Bill C-2 is a beginning, Canada must undertake substantial action to dismantle criminal networks before they negatively impact communities.

One suggestion to bolster security includes increasing resources directed towards First Nations policing. Chief Dwayne Zacharie of the Kahnawake Peacekeepers remarks that chronic underfunding has allowed organized crime to fester within First Nations communities. "This is far more than a local issue," he warns, labeling it a direct threat to national security and economic stability that necessitates a coordinated response.

In response to these urgent calls for action, the Future Borders Coalition is hosting an invitation-only roundtable in Ottawa, which aims to unite top experts on national and border security, law enforcement leaders, and policymakers from both Canada and the United States. This gathering seeks to foster dialogue between industry professionals and experts, with the objective to formulate actionable strategies that combat the illegal flow of drugs and contraband. Central to this dialogue is the coalition's push to ratify Bill C-2, known as Canada’s Strong Borders Act, and transition Canada’s border strategy from a reactive seizure approach to a proactive disruption model.

About the Future Borders Coalition

The Future Borders Coalition (FBC) serves as a cross-border business forum dedicated to enhancing cooperation between Canada and the U.S. in terms of trade, travel, and security. Established in 2018, the FBC has worked to bring together leaders from both industry and government to cultivate actionable solutions that promote resilient supply chains, seamless travel experiences, and aligned policy frameworks. With a diverse portfolio of members representing sectors like transportation, tourism, manufacturing, high technology, and various business services, the coalition offers vital insights, advocacy, and impactful convenings that help maintain North America’s connectivity and competitiveness in an ever-evolving global landscape.