Why Debates Matter

Debates play an essential role in Canada's democracy: to learn about the leaders' policy positions and party platforms and shed light on their character.

Effective leaders' debates are a public trust, that in turn, can help increase confidence in institutions and foster citizen engagement.

Democratic Exercises

Debates are democratic exercises dedicated to the voting public, there to serve and inform.

Public Interest

Debates are about serving the public interest and responding to the needs of the voters by helping them make an informed choice at the ballot box. Making an informed decision is part of a thriving and healthy democracy.

Debates represent a unique opportunity to provide meaningful and illuminating exchanges between the leaders of political parties on policy positions and party platforms.

A Live Debate - Unedited and Unfiltered Information

• A live debate provides a rare opportunity for Canadians to hear directly from the leaders of the political parties – unedited and unfiltered.
• A live debate is a chance for Canadians to learn about the people who are likely to play an important role in public policymaking in the House of Commons and those who aspire to lead our country.
• A live debate is about seeing party leaders together in one place, answering questions, expounding on their positions, debating each other, challenging each other's policies, and evaluating their ability to perform under pressure.
• A live debate is an opportunity to learn and better understand the issues that matter to Canadians.

Authentic Record

In an age of disinformation, fragmentation of audiences and polarization of public opinion, leaders' debates produce an authentic record of party positions that Canadians can come back to repeatedly.