My Life in Politics

Greg Marchildon speaks with Lloyd Axworthy about his book, My Life in Politics. In this memoir, Lloyd Axworthy reflects on his journey from a Canadian prairie boy to a prominent politician. He served 21 years in parliament, playing key roles in Canada’s Charter of Rights, the Canada-US free trade debate, and global efforts to ban landmines. Axworthy shares insights from significant moments, including Hong Kong’s turnover and Princess Diana’s funeral, and discusses the challenges of balancing progressive ideals with political realities, crediting his family and support network for his success. Lloyd Axworthy is a Canadian politician, elder statesman and academic. He served as Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien. In 2000, he retired from politics, returning to western Canada where he served as President of the University of Winnipeg for ten years. In December, 2015 he was promoted to Companion of the Order of Canada. He now chairs the World Refugee and Migration Council and lives with his wife Denise, in Ottawa. Image Credit: Sutherland House If you like our work, please consider supporting it: bit.ly/support_WTY. Your support contributes to the Champlain Society’s mission of opening new windows to directly explore and experience Canada’s past.