General

Canada’s new language for the world

Conservative government removes Liberal language from foreign policy

In an attempt, apparently, to differentiate itself from its Liberal predecessors, sources tell Embassy that the Conservative government has been trying to change the language used by Foreign Affairs bureaucrats, putting its own spin on the ideals for which this country stands. Out are words and phrases like “human security” and “good governance.” In are “human rights,” “the rule of law” and “democracy.” “There are phrases you are not supposed to use,” says one diplomat. “Anything that smacks of the previous government is totally verboten. There is this tendency, almost like a knee-jerk reaction, to discount or ignore or change whatever it is the Liberals did and let’s put a new Conservative face on it.”

Embassy

Looking for more?

Get the Best of Maclean's sent straight to your inbox. Sign up for news, commentary and analysis.
  • By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.
FILED UNDER: