Democracy Awards
The Democracy Awards
Democracy is not fixed or guaranteed. It is built, defended, and renewed through the actions of people who choose dialogue over division, institutions over expediency, and the public good over partisan gain.
The Democracy Awards are presented annually to inspirational Canadians whose work has strengthened democratic values in Canada and beyond. Recipients are recognized for their long-standing commitment to democratic institutions, human rights, civic participation, and respectful public discourse.
Each year, the award ceremony brings together parliamentarians, thought leaders, government officials, diplomats and democratic practitioners to reflect on the state of democracy and to celebrate leadership that offers both inspiration and direction in a world where democracy faces substantial challenges.
Anne McLellan and Lisa Raitt, Co-Chairs of the Coalition for a Better Future, were selected as co-recipients of the 2025 Democracy Awards. The Coalition is a non-partisan initiative that brings together more than 100 organizations from across business, labour, academia, and civil society to advance a shared vision for Canada’s future.
As a former Liberal minister and a former Conservative minister, the Hon. McLellan and the Hon. Raitt exemplify principled cross-partisan leadership at a time when such collaboration is increasingly rare. Their partnership demonstrates how leadership rooted in mutual respect, evidence, and long-term thinking can transcend political divides and advance inclusive, sustainable economic prosperity and opportunity for all Canadians.
The Coalition’s flagship publication, the Canada Scorecard, offers accessible, data-driven insights into the economic, social, and environmental trends shaping Canadians’ lives.
Hon. Lisa Raitt PC
Lisa Raitt served 11 years as the Conservative Member of Parliament for Milton, Ontario, including as Deputy Leader of the Opposition. Known for her pragmatic leadership, she remains deeply engaged in public service, serving as Vice-Chair of the Boards of CARE Canada and St. Francis Xavier University, where she recently became Chair of the Board of Governors.
“Our democracy is something we have to defend, we have to nurture, and we have to continually renew.” – The Hon. Lisa Raitt, 2025 Democracy Awards
Hon. Anne McLellan PC OC AOE
Anne McLellan served four terms as the Liberal Member of Parliament for Edmonton and held several senior cabinet positions during her 15 years in Parliament, including Deputy Prime Minister of Canada and Minister of Justice and Attorney General. Before entering politics, she was a distinguished university professor and legal scholar. In 2009, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada for her contributions to public life.
“We know that Canadians are ready to debate, collaborate and to build—as long as they are given the space to do it respectfully. And that is really what democracy demands of us.” – The Hon. Anne McLellan, 2025 Democracy Awards
Gallery
A former Leader of the New Democratic Party and long-serving Member of Parliament, Ed Broadbent devoted his life to democracy, social justice, and political participation. Beyond elected office, he served as Vice-President of Socialist International, President of the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development, and later founded the Broadbent Institute to advance research and dialogue on social democracy.
Broadbent’s career reflected a deep belief that democracy must be fair, inclusive, and responsive—and that defending it requires engagement both inside and outside Parliament.
“He was a fierce defender of democracy. But he was also very clear about democracy…for him it was not just the ability to vote but also the ability to live a good life” -Leader of the New Democratic Party, Jagmeet Singh, 2024 Democracy Awards
Canada’s 18th Prime Minister (1984–1993), Brian Mulroney led the country through a period of significant international and domestic change. His leadership was marked by a strong commitment to democracy and human rights, including Canada’s opposition to apartheid in South Africa, recognition of Ukraine’s independence in 1991, and humanitarian responses such as Canada’s role in addressing the 1985 famine in Ethiopia.
Mulroney revitalized Canada’s role on the global stage and demonstrated how democratic leadership can be exercised through principled international engagement.
“The distance between the opposition benches and government benches is 13 feet which is supposed to represent the length of two swords. There’s a violent connotation to that but I chose to look at it differently. With all weapons, at some point you put your weapons down and [Mulroney] remembered that.” – Ben Mulroney, 2024 Democracy Awards
Gallery
Recognized for his principled leadership and lifelong commitment to democratic dialogue.
As Canada’s 16th Prime Minister (1979-1980) and later as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joe Clark championed parliamentary democracy, multilateral cooperation, and respectful political engagement. Known for his integrity and independence, he has remained a strong voice for democratic norms long after leaving elected office, demonstrating that democratic leadership extends beyond holding power.
“Canada shares the challenges of democracy with the wider world. But our distinction has been our instinct and capacity to address and lead those inherent democratic challenges. That instinct remains a critical contemporary feature of Canada and a role for us in the days to come.” – The Right Honourable Joe Clark, 2023 Democracy Awards
Gallery
Awarded in recognition of a lifetime dedicated to democratic governance, human rights, and multilateralism.
As Canada’s Ambassador to the United Nations, and previously as a Member of Parliament, party leader, and Premier of Ontario, Bob Rae has consistently defended democratic institutions, the rule of law, and the protection of civilians. His work at the UN emphasized accountability, respect for international law, and the responsibilities of states toward their populations – core principles of democratic governance.
“We have to work together to build support for minorities, for pluralism, so we get over this notion that democracy is this simplistic idea that democracy is what happens in an election… Democracy is really about building support for the dignity of the individual as well as solidarity and institutional support.” – The Honourable Bob Rae, 2022 Democracy Awards
Gallery
