November/December 2008 Issue

The Gathering Place
Hopes for Canada’s 40th Parliament
By Bruce J. Clemenger

Good governance requires civility

During the federal election I was asked a number of times what the most important issue was. My reply: civility.

I realize there were a number of important issues being debated and others being ignored (especially the lack of any regulation of abortion in Canada). Most observers predicted leadership would be a prominent issue, and it did remain a key theme particularly with the worldwide economic turmoil that emerged during the election. In the end, we as a nation did not entrust one leader with a majority to guide Canada through the economic and financial challenges to come.

But within these dynamics I still think civility is a critical issue for Parliament and, indeed, for the country as a whole. If we are going to address contentious issues, particularly in a minority Parliament, we will need to learn new ways of processing the range of views that Canadians hold.

Many have said the pre-election Parliament was one of the most rancorous. The rhetoric was often debilitating and caustic, and the tendency was to define oneself or one’s position by belittling or marginalizing the other.

In our highly pluralized society we are groping for that which defines us as a nation and the basis upon which we can strive together for the public good. Both these contexts increase our need for politicians who practise and foster civility.

The election itself did not raise the bar in that regard.

More broadly, when substantive issues like abortion are raised, the usual response is not thoughtful dialogue but attempts to shut down any debate.

We face serious issues as a nation. To grapple with these we need attitudes and approaches that will encourage an environment in which the substantive issues of the day can be aired and debated with respect – from the economy to the environment, from the role of Canada’s military in international conflicts to criminal justice, from caring for vulnerable and marginalized people to addressing the rifts between peoples and regions.

Imagine a forum where agreement is sought whenever possible and where event-ual “losers” in the policy debates as well as the “winners” can return to their communities and homes feeling good about their participation. They can be empowered – not by frustration, anger and hostility but by hope and passion for a better way when justice will flow.

This plea for civility requires receptivity in other areas of life besides politics. But it must be modelled in the public square, and the legislatures of our nation are critical arenas of public engagement.

A more civil approach to the business of the nation may also attract more participants and encourage greater voter turnout. Civility may be an antidote to apathy.

At its root civility emanates from an affirmation of the dignity of all and the importance of treating others with respect. It acknowledges that we can always benefit from listening to others with contrary views.

Who will contribute to convening the nation’s business so that the outcome will be just and the process fair and constructive? Process, as well as outcome, is what good governance is about. And that is what governments and our political leaders are called by God to be and to do.
 
Bruce J. Clemenger is the president of The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. Read more columns at www.evangelicalfellowship.ca/clemenger.