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A recent poll reveals a notable shift in Canadian attitudes towards military service, with an increasing number of citizens expressing a willingness to join the Armed Forces in the event of a major conflict. Conducted by Nanos Research for The Globe and Mail, the survey reflects heightened public optimism towards the military, coinciding with the government’s commitments to elevate defence spending and recruitment initiatives.
Poll Findings Indicate Growing Willingness to Serve
The Nanos Research survey, conducted between March 1 and 8, 2023, sampled 1,058 Canadians aged 18 and older. The findings show that 24 per cent of respondents would be ready to enlist full-time in the military during a major conflict, a significant increase from 12 per cent recorded in a similar survey last November. Additionally, 32 per cent indicated a willingness to serve part-time, up from 19 per cent.
Demographic analysis revealed that younger Canadians, particularly those aged 18 to 34, demonstrated a greater propensity to serve, with approximately eight percentage points more inclination to join full-time compared to the 55-plus age group. This shift is particularly relevant given the backdrop of global instability, including ongoing conflicts and rising tensions between Canada and the United States.
Positive Sentiment Towards the Military
Support for the Canadian Forces appears robust, with 58 per cent of respondents reporting a favourable view of the military. Approximately 75 per cent expressed pride in the Armed Forces, with approval ratings highest among respondents from Atlantic Canada (71 per cent) and lowest in Ontario (54 per cent). Furthermore, 73 per cent of participants would support a friend or family member’s decision to join the military, a slight uptick from 68 per cent last year.
According to Nik Nanos, chief data scientist at Nanos Research, these results signal a positive response to government announcements about enhanced defence funding and recruitment efforts. He noted, “This speaks to a narrative of investment in new fighter jets, ships, submarines and equipment for the infantry.”
Government Commitment to Defence Spending
Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged to increase defence spending by over $84 billion over the next five years, a move aimed at addressing Canada’s strategic military needs in a perceived dangerous global landscape. Canada has recently achieved the NATO benchmark of spending 2 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, a goal it had long struggled to meet. The government has further committed to reaching 5 per cent by 2035.
Wayne Eyre, former chief of defence staff, believes the positive polling results provide the government with the social mandate necessary to continue investing in military capabilities. However, he cautioned that maintaining public support will be crucial, noting, “We should have a certain degree of shame that it took berating from an erstwhile ally to properly invest in defence despite the very real threats coming from elsewhere.”
Changing Attitudes Towards Military Service
The military’s public perception has evolved significantly since the 1990s, when it faced criticism and stigma. Tom Lawson, a former Royal Canadian Air Force general, remarked on the transformation in societal attitudes, stating, “Now there is a greater sustained support for the military in Canada.” He emphasised the importance of seizing this moment to bolster recruitment efforts, asserting, “I think it is important for the military to strike while the iron is hot.”
The Nanos survey highlights both a changing public sentiment and a strategic opportunity for the Canadian Armed Forces to enhance recruitment as they navigate an increasingly complex global security environment.
Why it Matters
The rising willingness of Canadians to serve in the military amidst global uncertainty underscores a pivotal moment for national defence policy. As Canada grapples with its role on the world stage, the government’s commitment to military investment aligns with the public’s shifting attitudes. These developments not only reflect the urgency of modern security challenges but also the necessity for a well-resourced military capable of responding to unforeseen threats. The interplay between public sentiment and government action could shape the future of Canada’s military and its preparedness in an uncertain world.
