Canadian Federalism : Performance, Effectiveness, and Legitimacy

In the context of Canada’s political landscape, Canadian Federalism stands as the leading text on federal institutions and processes, analyzing the performance, effectiveness, and legitimacy of the federation’s core components. The fifth edition features contributions from twenty experts, including six new authors, who explore the socio-economic foundations, institutions, and intergovernmental relations that shape Canadian federalism.

The book is organized into three parts: it examines Canada as a case of comparative federalism; explores key social, economic, and environmental policy areas; and reimagines the federation by addressing Indigenous multi-level governance and the role of municipalities. By employing a common evaluative framework, this volume ensures consistency and analytical rigour, making it accessible to both students and scholars. The authors provide diverse assessments of Canadian federal institutions, highlighting different models of federalism under the Justin Trudeau government, such as collaborative federalism in certain areas and unilateralism in others.

In a time of political polarization and calls for reform, Canadian Federalism is essential reading for understanding the complexities of Canada’s governance and the urgent need for institutional improvements.

Herman Bakvis is a professor emeritus in the School of Public Administration at the University of Victoria.


Grace Skogstad is a professor emerita in the Department of Political Science at the University of Toronto.