Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a stark message at the 2026 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, challenging the notion of a rules-based international order as a "fiction" and urging middle powers to redefine their roles in an era of shifting global dynamics.
A Call for Strategic Autonomy
Addressing geopolitical tensions, Carney criticized what he termed "American hegemony," stating that many nations have been "performing sovereignty while accepting subordination." His remarks come amid ongoing debates about multilateralism and power distribution in international institutions.
The Price of Absence
The Prime Minister's metaphor—"If we are not at the table, we are on the menu"—resonated through the conference halls, highlighting concerns about smaller nations' agency in global decision-making. Analysts suggest this reflects growing unease about economic security and technological competition in 2026.
Regional Implications
While Carney's comments focused on North American and European relations, observers note potential parallels for Asian nations navigating U.S.-China tensions. The speech underscores the complex balancing act facing middle powers across continents as they seek to protect national interests in a polarized world.
