Conclusion

biological threats of indeterminate origin and rising levels of internal extremism will, in some measure, determine the resilience of the democratic model that celebrates freedom, diversity, dissent, the rule of law and the benefits of a free press.

The national security risk spectrum is broader and more complex than that occasioned by the global power mix at the time our security agencies were stood up and even since any serious comprehensive policy thinking on national security was last undertaken. The need for a broader national security spectrum of response and society-wide engagement reflecting more than official Ottawa headquarters is compelling. Embracing a society-wide national commitment in no way diminishes the immense work done every day by our security agencies to protect Canada. The need simply argues for a commitment that is larger and more reflective of all aspects of the country’s diverse economic, analytical, academic and civil society strengths and capacity.

The true national security threats to Canadians where they live, work and gather are larger than what a few well-intentioned and competently led national security agencies can manage on their own. The requirement for a broader reimagined approach is unavoidable and essential.