In recent months, the Canadian political landscape has been marred by a series of controversies and failures under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leadership. The Liberal government's handling of key issues such as rising antisemitism, international terrorism, and the Prime Minsiter’s spouting conspiracy theories in Parliament, paints a worrying picture of a government struggling to effectively manage crises that deeply impact the cohesion of Canadian society.

First and foremost, the government's response to the rising tide of antisemitism since the October 7 terrorist attacks by Hamas has been underwhelming. In the wake of these horrific events, communities across the globe, including in Canada, looked to their leaders for solidarity and action against hate crimes and antisemitism. Yet, the measures taken by Trudeau's administration have been perceived as insufficient by many within the Jewish community and beyond. Effective leadership in such times requires more than mere acknowledgment; it necessitates decisive actions and policies that prevent hate and ensure the safety of all citizens, irrespective of their faith.

Trudeau has also failured to designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. Despite the IRGC's documented threats and actions against Canadians, including their role in the downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 killing 55 Canadians, the government's reluctance to take firm action stands out as a glaring omission. This hesitation not only undermines Canada’s stance on global terrorism but also risks the safety of its citizens by allowing IRGC agents to operate within Canadian borders.

Moreover, Trudeau's conduct in Parliament has also drawn severe reproach. Recently, to fight his failing poll numbers, he resorted to inventing conspiracy theories on the floor of the House of Commons. Trudeau attempted to link Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Opposition, to marginal online figures — while Poilievre was asking for federal action on drug deaths in British Columbia. This action by Trudeau is not only a misuse of his platform but also a diversion from pressing national issues. Such tactics degrade the quality of political discourse in Canada and detract from legitimate policy debates.

Trudeau’s memory is short, or he is profoundly disingenuous. His office honoured a Nazi veteran in the House of Commons last year during President Zelensky’s state visit. This deeply offensive misstep reflects a serious lapse in judgement and a failure of the vetting processes typically employed by the government. Honouring such a figure not only causes distress within communities that suffered under Nazi atrocities but also questions the government’s commitment to fighting antisemitism as it inappropriately uses the real issue of rising anti-Jewish hatred as a misappropriated cudgel against Trudeau’s partisan opponents.

Trudeau’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict has been criticized as cynical. At a time when clear moral leadership is needed, playing both sides undermines Canada’s historical commitment to peace and justice on the international stage. It is crucial for leaders to uphold principles of human rights and justice consistently, without bending in the winds of political expediency.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government highlight a broader issue of leadership that seems increasingly out of touch with the values and security needs of Canadians. From failing to effectively combat antisemitism, hesitating to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization, misusing parliamentary privilege, honouring actual Nazis in Parliament, to waffling on international conflicts, the current government’s actions—or lack thereof—speak to a need for a reassessment of Canada’s leadership. The upcoming byelection in St. Paul’s provides an opportunity for the Jewish community and its allies to render judgement on this government.