PM Mark Carney denounces 'old order' and 'American hegemony' in Davos, Switzerland

This week, the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting was held in Davos, Switzerland, under the theme of 'A Spirit of Dialogue.'

On Tuesday, January 20, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a 17-minute special address in which he condemned the "old order" of the world and said the longstanding American-led rules-based international order is over. He called on "middle powers" such as Canada to work together and resist domination by larger, wealthier, and more heavily armed nations.

The reaction from Canadians has been overwhelmingly positive. Across the political spectrum, many have praised Carney's speech for its measured, inspiring tone and for firmly positioning Canada in opposition to the actions of U.S. President Donald Trump—without ever mentioning him by name. This response is hardly surprising. As last year's election showed, few things currently unite Canadians as effectively as drawing a clear line against Trump and his actions.

But should progressive Canadians be so quick to celebrate Carney's speech? What was left unsaid beneath the polished rhetoric? Which elements rang hollow or hypocritical, and which genuinely deserve recognition?

Today on the show, rabble publisher Sarah Sahagian and rabble editor Nick Seebruch discuss the speech and what it might mean for Carney's plans in the year ahead.

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