Brian Crombie Radio Hour - Epi 1533 - Canada’s National Security Strategy: Why We Need One Now

In this timely episode of The Brian Crombie Radio Hour, Brian Crombie is joined by Ann Fitz-Gerald, Director of the Balsillie School of International Affairs and one of Canada’s foremost experts on defence, security, and geopolitics, for a critical discussion on Canada’s national security future. With decades of experience spanning senior roles in the U.K., NATO, and the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre — and as the first civilian woman admitted to the Royal Military College’s defence studies program — Ann Fitz-Gerald brings rare insight into strategy, sovereignty, and national preparedness. The conversation explores a question Canada has long avoided:How does Canada protect its sovereignty, economy, and security in a rapidly changing global order? Topics include Canada’s fragmented approach to national security, what the new U.S. national security strategy signals for allies, the growing importance of AI, data, cybersecurity, and critical minerals, and Canada’s absence from key global conversations shaping strategic trade and supply chains. Ann also explains why Canada needs a formal expert advisory council and a clearer long-term vision to move from reacting to deciding its future. This is not a partisan discussion — it’s a strategic one. At a moment when geopolitics, technology, and economic security are converging, this episode makes the case for why Canada needs a coherent national security strategy now more than ever.