Canada Poised To Become A Global Superpower In 2050

Despite its expeditious climb in the past decade, the world is still reluctant to call Canada a "global superpower". Perhaps the hesitation has something to do with Canada's longstanding reputation as America's secondary counterpart, or the many whimsical (and sometimes ridiculous) quirks that, at times, make it hard to take the country seriously.

Whatever the case may be, everything is expected to change in Canada's favour within the next 30 years, with predictions that the country will finally become an irrefutable global superpower by 2050.

There are several analyses supporting this notion. One regards the dwindling of the United States' economy and international influence. By 2050, the U.S. is projected to no longer have the world's largest economy, with a GDP less than that of China and a per capita income with no more room for growth. India could even see itself surpassing the U.S., as it is poised to become the most populous country on earth with a projected 1.6 billion people.

Such provides a gaping window of opportunity for Canada to hurtle itself to the top. While it is projected to have a GDP of only $2.29 trillion, it will still have the resources, government, and cultural tolerance to establish itself as a serious player at the big table.

With an increasingly changing climate, the world will turn to Canada for its natural resources. An abundance of renewable freshwater, a wealth of oil and natural gas, an expected increase in arable land and plenty of space for people to live in gives it an edge in the war against global warming. In fact, Laurence C. Smith, a geographer for UCLA, says "climate change could turn Canada into a 'global superpower' by 2050."

On top of that, Canada's government, which as been ranked as one of the least corrupt in the world, gives it an advantage over the U.S. High-quality institutions, universal health care and less controversial economic policies like a low corporate tax rate (15 per cent compared to the U.S.'s 35 per cent) give Canada the stability and public trust necessary to claim a leadership role in global affairs.

But Canada's smoking gun might be its impressive immigration policy, which focuses on recruiting the world's most skilled workers. Potential candidates for immigration are scored on their language skills, work experience, education, age and adaptability to ensure the country only receives the best people, and in return, they are rewarded with permanent immigration. This is contrary to the U.S. immigration policy, which only takes in guest workers for temporary periods.

An influx of new talent from different countries could make Canada the birthplace of a new world economy that is driven by cutting edge research and innovation. And, as an advocate for tolerance and human rights, the Canadian people would have the freedom camaraderie and to achieve these goals together.

So dispel any preconceived notions you may have had about Canada. It may take a few decades, but in time, it will take over the world!