At a time when global dynamics are being rapidly reshaped, we must seize opportunities to deepen our most promising partnerships. One of the most strategically natural and underexplored of these is the relationship between the European Union and Canada. As a Member of the European Parliament, I am convinced that now is the moment to institutionalise our common values and shared interests through a new flagship initiative: an EU-Canada Political Erasmus programme.
For decades, the Erasmus+ programme has stood as a beacon of academic mobility and cultural exchange within Europe. Canada, already associated with Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe, has shown strong commitment to international collaboration in research, education, and innovation. Now, we must go a step further: to establish a structured academic and professional exchange in political science, law, diplomacy, and governance between our two democratic spaces.
This idea comes at a time of growing mutual interest. Around 45% of Canadians express openness to joining the EU, an impressive indicator of the public sentiment that favours closer ties. While full EU membership may be aspirational for now, I have taken steps to explore this possibility formally, including by submitting a written question to the European Commission on whether Canada could one day become an EU member or associate state. This reflects my strong belief that Canada belongs within our European political and institutional family.
Our democracies face many of the same challenges: from navigating climate policy and economic transitions to responding to geopolitical uncertainty and defending liberal values. Shared problems require shared solutions, and those can only emerge from mutual understanding and institutional familiarity. A Political Erasmus would enable students and young professionals from both sides of the Atlantic to engage directly with one another’s legal systems, political institutions, and administrative frameworks.
This exchange would not only involve study programs but also hands-on experiences such as bilateral traineeships, institutional shadowing, joint seminars, and policy workshops. EU officials would gain invaluable insights into the nuances of Canadian federalism, while Canadian participants would be immersed in the workings of the European institutions. These experiences would build a new generation of transatlantic professionals equipped to think, and act, globally.
We already have a solid foundation. Canada’s participation in Horizon Europe’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions demonstrates the capacity and enthusiasm for joint research and training. Now, we must complement that with a dedicated political dimension.
This initiative should be jointly funded and formally supported by both the European Commission and the Canadian government. It would serve as both a symbolic and practical step toward deeper integration, a bridge between two like-minded communities committed to multilateralism, democracy, and the rule of law. I hope that the new Canadian government will take up this initiative, as it would present a true win-win for both our peoples.
As policymakers, educators, and citizens, we must rise to the challenge of preparing our institutions, and our people, for a future of close cooperation. A Political Erasmus for the EU and Canada is not just an idea; it is a necessary investment in the leaders of tomorrow.
Let us act now to turn transatlantic goodwill into a lasting partnership.
