DiscoverThe Big StoryIf Canadians want more security, they'll have to foot the bill
If Canadians want more security, they'll have to foot the bill

If Canadians want more security, they'll have to foot the bill

Update: 2026-04-13
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Just a year after its original deadline, Canada has finally met its NATO spending target of 2% of its GDP, including investing billions in recruitment and modernizing infrastructure. Our eyes are now set on the 2035 target of 5%, which Ottawa committed to following pressure from US President Trump last year.


While Canadians are feeling supportive of the government beefing up national security during this geopolitical moment, the reality of the paying the bill will fall on the shoulders of Canadians.


Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Colin Busby, director of policy engagement at the CD Howe Institute to break down what options Ottawa has to finance the sustainability of its NATO spending.


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If Canadians want more security, they'll have to foot the bill

If Canadians want more security, they'll have to foot the bill

Caryn Ceolin, Colin Busby