A key responsibility of governments is to protect the things that matter to Canadians – not just for today, but over the long-term. That’s why we enshrine our most important commitments and values in law, to help them endure past short-term election cycles and changing political fads.

With every decision we make today, we’re creating a legacy for our kids, grandkids and future generations. To make sure they have the same opportunities that we have enjoyed, our decisions must consider more than what’s most convenient right now. They must consider whether our actions conserve the resources on which those who follow us will depend for their health, lives and livelihoods.

This election, we're calling on all parties to commit to enshrining in legislation the goal of building a Canada that works for all generations. An Act to Safeguard the Wellbeing of Present and Future Generations will hold governments to account for their responsibility to be good ancestors, guiding Canada towards a future where all generations can thrive and prosper.

There is a strong foundation from which to build this legislation. In September, Canada joined with countries around the world in signing the first ever United Nations Declaration on Future Generations. The Declaration affirms the responsibilities we collectively hold today to those who follow, calling on governments at all levels to “safeguard the needs and interests of future generations.”

The Declaration is timely in Canada. Ottawa bravely committed to Fairness for Every Generation in its 2024 budget, motivating expanded investments in things like child care, school meals, and climate action. But the previous governments stopped short of committing Canada to the actions needed to claim a place as a global leader on generational fairness. As our budget report card confirms, it’s on these priorities that we need all parties to step up this election.

Canada would not be alone in committing to protecting the wellbeing of present and future generations. Wales has a Commissioner for Future Generations, and legislation to protect the their wellbeing. In 2024, the European Commission appointed a Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness. It’s time for Canada to step up too.

The freighter of government changes course slowly. An Act to Safeguard the Wellbeing of Present and Future Generations is the guiding star we need to keep it on course, and to deliver honest reporting on whether we're investing fairly for all ages. To achieve these goals, the legislation we propose will:

• Ensure that future governments consider the wellbeing of all generations in budget decisions. 
• Establish a Minister, Commissioner, and Advisory body to work like tugboats, keeping the government on course.
• Shape policies to guarantee a healthy childhood, home, planet and retirement for Canadians today – and generations to come.

Responsible platforms that commit to enacting this law will deliver the transparency voters need today, and that our kids and grandkids will need tomorrow. That's what we need to avoid being duped!