Marking the 25th anniversary of the series, Canada Among Nations 2009 focuses on how leading foreign and Canadian thinkers and doers assess Canada's prospects in a world in which the US will become more pre-eminent and predominant. The rise of China, India, Russia, and Brazil as well as the increased significance of Europe and the further development of Africa are all transforming the context in which Canadians live. Given the change in the tone, style, and substance of American foreign policy, and the need to deal with unprecedented international financial problems and global economic retreat, the topic of this volume is especially timely.

Canada will need to formulate sound policies on key issues such as energy and environmental sustainability, nuclear nonproliferation, human rights, and trade and investment in key areas such as Afghanistan and the Middle East. Astute bilateral diplomacy and constructive engagement in multilateral forums such as the United Nations and the G20 will be crucial to Canada's success. Contributors to this volume critique Canada's performance on the world stage, offering advice on initiatives Canada can take in its own and in the common interest.