An ambiguous ally: Canada’s pro-LGBTQ+ foreign policy

Since 2015, Canada has become one of the most important defenders of the rights of sexual and gender minorities around the world. This article analyzes Canada’s record as a pro-LGBTQ+ foreign policy actor, focusing on its actions between 2015 and 2025. More specifically, we explore the degree to which the Canadian government’s strategies and practices reflect characteristics of a “good ally” in its relationship with LGBTQ+ civil society organizations. We develop a framework of “good allyship” as an analytical tool, based on three components – the demonstration of commitment, the institutionalization of support and relationship building – and then apply it to the Canadian case. We find that Canada occupies an ambiguous position as an ally. Although Canada has demonstrated good commitment, it might not be sustained, its institutionalization is limited, and the relationships fall short of equitable, long-term partnerships.