Could Canada join the EU? Most Canadians would not rule it out

A growing number of Canadians are warming to the idea of deeper integration with Europe, with new polling suggesting that potential membership in the European Union is no longer a fringe concept.

Research released by Spark Advocacy indicates that a majority of Canadians believe the idea of joining the EU is at least worth exploring. The findings point to a shift in public sentiment as global political and economic dynamics evolve, particularly amid heightened uncertainty surrounding Canada’s relationship with the United States.

Speaking recently, France’s foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot suggested it could be a possibility after nine countries became formal candidates to join the bloc. “Others might join them. Iceland in a few weeks or months. And maybe Canada at some point,” the minister said.

The line up of EU member states has been relatively stable for many years – Croatia was the last to join in 2013. If Canada were to join the EU, it would be the biggest change in the 27 state line up since the UK decided to leave in what became known as Brexit.

According to the Spark survey, roughly half of Canadian respondents expressed openness to the concept of Canada becoming part of the EU, while only a minority rejected it outright (17%) and 25% thought it was a good idea. The results suggest that Canadians are increasingly receptive to diversifying economic and political partnerships beyond North America.

The data highlights that support is not necessarily rooted in a desire for immediate membership but rather reflects curiosity about potential long-term benefits. These include expanded trade opportunities, strengthened geopolitical alliances, and increased economic stability.

Any realistic move for Canada to join the EU would face significant legal, geographic, and political hurdles but the poll suggests most Canadians are willing to at least reconsider traditional alliances in response to shifting global realities.