Economic Paradiplomacy of Canadian provinces in North America

Jorge Virchez(Jorge Virchez ),Roberto Zepeda(Roberto Zepeda ) 한국캐나다학회 2017 Asia-Pacific Journal of Canadian Studies (APJCS) Vol.23 No.2

This article analyzes the international relations of the Canadian provinces in recent decades, especially observing exports and imports with the United States and Mexico, but also in the international arena. The analysis is conducted both from a national and subnational perspective, considering economic patterns and trends. In the same way, we observe the productive activities and the most relevant industries in the economy of the Canadian provinces and their connection with international markets. The aim of this article is to examine the economic relations and international activities of Canadian provinces. We concentrate on the cases of Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia. Economic integration in North America has paved the way to other forms of cooperation between subnational governments on diverse topics, through diverse regional organizations and through international agreements.

THE ARCTIC COUNCIL AND THE INUIT CIRCUMPOLAR COUNCIL. GOVERNANCE IN THE ARCTIC REGION

Zepeda Roberto,Virchez Jorge 한국캐나다학회 2022 Asia-Pacific Journal of Canadian Studies (APJCS) Vol.28 No.1

This article analyzes the forms of governance in the Canadian Arctic. It relies on two perspectives. First, by looking at the mechanisms of governance in the circumpolar region through the Arctic Council, and second, by analyzing the paradiplomacy of indigenous groups in Canada, particularly the Inuit, through the Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC). It explores the ICC's international actions to promote their identity and cultural practices, but also to defend their economic interests as the original people of the circumpolar world. This article analyzes the fragmentation of the nation-state, and the emergence of non-state actors contesting its supremacy in international relations, leading to new forms of governance. In Canada, indigenous groups such as the Inuit, through the Inuit Circumpolar Council, have regained power and influence, creating new forms of governance in the Arctic.

Economic integration in North America from a national and subnational perspectives: Recent trends and projections

Zepeda Roberto,Virchez Jorge 한국캐나다학회 2021 Asia-Pacific Journal of Canadian Studies (APJCS) Vol.27 No.2

Economic integration in North America from national and subnational perspectives: Recent trends and projections. Asian Journal of Canadian Studies, 27(2), 29-59. This article analyzes trends in North America's economic integration during 1994-2020, highlighting the role of subnational entities. It examines the nature and characteristics of the national and subnational economies in the region in recent decades. There has been increased cooperation among subnational actors in North America. With the new United States, Mexico, and Canada Agreement, greater integration among the three North American countries is expected. After the economic downturn in 2020, triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic, economic growth is expected in 2020 and 2021, according to estimates from international organizations.

Unions and Labor Standards in Canada: an Analysis by Province and Sector

Roberto Zepeda,Virchez Jorge 한국캐나다학회 2023 Asia-Pacific Journal of Canadian Studies (APJCS) Vol.29 No.1

This article analyzes contemporary fluctuations in union density in Canada, as well as labor markets in the period 1980-2022. The analysis is made taking into account the evolution of union membership, labor force characteristics, as well as the living standards of Canadian workers in that period. The development of Canadian trade unionism is scrutinized, identifying the most representative unions at the national and provincial levels. In addition, the conditions of workers in different sectors are explored. Finally, an assessment of trade unionism in Canada is conducted and some conclusions are suggested.

The Fur Trade Industry and the Birth of a Nation: from the Colony of New France to Present Canada

Roberto Zepeda,Jorge Virchez,Sébastien Nault, Pascal Samson,Guillermo González 한국캐나다학회 2023 Asia-Pacific Journal of Canadian Studies (APJCS) Vol.29 No.2

This paper examines the historical significance of the fur trade industry in the establishment and development of French and British colonies in Canada, comprising from early exploration to the formation of major trading companies like the Hudson’s Bay Company and the Compagnie des Indes Occidentales. Employing a comprehensive analysis of historical documents, literature, and case studies, the study underscores the pivotal role played by the fur trade industry in shaping the Canadian nation. Emphasis is place on exploring the economic, political, and geographical contexts, elucidating the conflicts and negotiations that marked the evolution of fur trade. The article further details the exploration routes and boundaries utilized by early European explorers and Indigenous peoples, highlighting the indispensable role of waterways as primary transportation channels during the initial era of fur trading. The examination demonstrates how the fur trade industry not only contributed to the economic prosperity of the Colony of New France as well as the British Canadian colonies but also played a transformative role in influencing sociocultural dynamics between indigenous populations and European settlers. The historical account unfolds from the early explorations of Jacques Cartier in the 16th century, revealing the fur trade as a principal means of financing and sustaining European presence in North America. The article specifically examines key figures such as Samuel de Champlain, Pierre-Esprit Radisson, and Médard Chouart des Groseilliers, whose expeditions and business ventures played vital roles in shaping the fur trade industry. This historical perspective illuminates the profound impact of the fur trade on the development of Canada as a nation, intricately influencing the geographical and economic landscape of the region.

THE RUSSIA-UKRAINE CONFLICT: A PERSPECTIVE FROM INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CANADIAN FOREIGN POLICY

Roberto Zepeda,Jorge Virchez 한국캐나다학회 2024 Asia-Pacific Journal of Canadian Studies (APJCS) Vol.30 No.1

This paper explores the Russia-Ukraine conflict within the theoretical framework of international relations and Canadian foreign policy; it relies on a qualitative analysis, focusing on the geopolitical, historical, and economic dimensions. It begins by contextualizing the conflict against the background of NATO historical expansion into Eastern Europe following the Cold War, underscoring how this expansion has contributed to heightened tensions with Russia. The paper examines Russia's strategic concerns regarding NATO's enlargement and its implications for regional security dynamics, emphasizing efforts to reassert Russia's influence amidst perceived Western advance. Furthermore, the paper delves into Canada's response to the conflict, underlining its robust support for Ukraine through diplomatic, economic, and military aid initiatives. Canada's multifaceted assistance is analyzed, including its significant financial contributions and humanitarian aid efforts, which reflects a commitment to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Moreover, the paper explores the economic repercussions of the conflict on Canada, particularly in terms of commodity prices and trade impacts, despite relatively limited direct trade ties with Russia.

Self-reported Health and Health Service Use among Canadian Adults with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Cloutier Julie Duff,Montgomery Phyllis,Virchez Jorge,Oddsond Bruce E 한국캐나다학회 2023 Asia-Pacific Journal of Canadian Studies (APJCS) Vol.29 No.1

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a complex chronic condition that causes a large health burden on both individuals and on the health care system. Those living with this condition have been found to use significant amounts of health care services, particularly costly acute care services. The exploration of health service use and overall self-reported health is warranted. The objectives of the study were: 1) to describe self-reported health and other health-related variables among those living with (COPD) and 2) to determine the association between self-reported health and health services used by those living with COPD. An analysis of the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) 2017-2018 was undertaken to examine the impact of COPD on self-rated health and health service use. Chi square, logistic regression, and poison regression were used. Persons living with COPD are more likely to report poorer self-rated health (OR = 4.96, CI = 4.67-5.27) and mental health (OR =2.54, CI = 2.36-2.72). Those with COPD were not more likely to report accessing health care providers beyond primary health care than those without COPD. COPD is associated with poorer self-rated health and mental health compared to those not living with COPD. Persons living with COPD were less likely to report accessing health care service from those beyond their primary care provider