Canada’s response to both the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukrainian-Russian conflict has shaped its domestic and foreign policy landscape. The aftermath of COVID-19 policies has left Canada grappling with economic challenges such as higher interest rates, lower GDP, and a housing crisis. Concurrently, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has led to one of the most significant geopolitical disasters in recent history. Canada, along with other Western allies, has provided substantial military and financial support to Ukraine in response to Russia’s aggression. This article examines Canada’s role in the conflict, analyzing its funding commitments, including military aid and humanitarian assistance, while considering the economic implications of such allocations. Through a breakdown of pre and post-2022 conflict contexts, as well as a discussion of Canada’s economic struggles post-COVID, this article aims to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of Canada’s involvement in the Ukrainian-Russian conflict and the impact on both domestic and international fronts.
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The emergence of Sentient Artificial General Intelligence (SAGI) has sparked discussions about its political ramifications and its profound economic implications. This paper delves into the multifaceted influence of SAGI, exploring questions surrounding its definition, potential economic rights, and impact on various industries. Grounded in an analysis of artificial intelligence (AI), AGI, and SAGI, the paper examines the intersection of technological advancement and economic theory. It addresses critical questions, such as whether SAGI should be granted economic rights, the implications for labour markets, and the intellectual property ownership generated by SAGI. Drawing from existing literature and hypothetical scenarios, the paper underscores the importance of establishing ethical frameworks and regulatory guidelines to navigate the complexities of integrating SAGI into economic systems. It emphasizes the need for proactive measures to harness the transformative potential of SAGI while mitigating risks and ensuring shared prosperity in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Continue reading…

The 2024 Canadian Federal Budget is just around the corner, with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland announcing that the new budget will be released on April 16^th. This leaves us with much to speculate about, as the government has not been transparent about changes coming down the pipeline. However, some various indicators and reports provide insight into the potential priorities and shifts the government might announce. Drawing from recent articles and announcements, this discussion paper aims to forecast potential budgetary focuses, particularly in light of shifting governmental priorities and public sentiment. Of course, this paper is only speculative and predictive, so take it with a grain of salt. We won’t know the full extent of the government’s plans until we can get our hands on the actual budget.
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Despite our world producing enough food to feed 1.5 times the global population, a staggering 783 million people suffer from hunger, while 2.4 billion experience food insecurity. This paradox signifies the existence of systemic flaws within our global food systems. This article delves into the current state of global hunger and food insecurity, exploring its complex, interconnected causes, evaluating how the issue is being addressed today, and proposing potential solutions to help achieve “Zero Hunger”. Continue reading…