The Second Century Commission announced the appointment of 18 commissioners tasked with developing a long-term agenda for Canada–U.S. bilateral cooperation. This initiative aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties amid a changing global order. The group’s inaugural meeting is scheduled for October 20-21, 2026, in Baltimore, Maryland.

Leadership and institutional backing

The Commission is co-chaired by former Canadian cabinet minister Lisa Raitt and former U.S. congresswoman Jane Harman. It operates under the guidance of three key institutions: McGill University’s Max Bell School of Public Policy, Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), and the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI). These organizations will support the development of practical recommendations to advance shared prosperity and security.

Key focus areas for bilateral cooperation

The Commission will address challenges that neither nation can manage alone. Its agenda includes secure supply chains, critical minerals, climate change, the energy transition, pressures on democratic institutions, artificial intelligence, digital governance, and defense. The goal is to create a roadmap that reflects current realities while supporting connections among people, businesses, and communities.

Commissioner profiles

The appointed commissioners bring diverse experience in elected office, public policy, business, and the nonprofit sector. They represent a range of political perspectives and regions.

Timeline and next steps

Launched to mark the 100th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between Canada and the United States, the Commission will hold additional meetings in Montreal, Ottawa, and Washington, D.C. over the next year. Deliberations will be informed by external technical experts, commissioned policy papers, an advisory body of former ambassadors, and a youth assembly. A final report with recommendations is planned for late 2027.