Journal Article

Quebec and Foreign Policy: Contradiction or Reality?

Ramet, Isabelle, Michaud, Nelson

2004

Overview

Balances perspectives on the international character & activity of Quebec against categories of true foreign policy as it is exercised by sovereign states. While it is here maintained that many of the concerns central to foreign policy may also be adopted into the planning & development of a province, the inability to operate with recognized instruments of sovereignty -- such as diplomatic & military installations -- prevents Quebec both from developing its capacity to act internationally & from having the will to such capacity recognized by other states. Many of the tensions that arise in Quebec's acceptance of these limitations while still persisting in the development of foreign relations are detailed here. Quebec's identity, largely through its cultural connections to other French-speaking parts of the world, is turned outward in an attempt to take as much initiative as possible under the currents of globalization. However, as is demonstrated here, advance in the cultivation of foreign relations & representation does not necessarily equate to establishment or exercise of legitimate foreign policy. 44 References. C. Brunski

• Subject: Foreign Policy / International Relations / Legitimacy / Quebec / Separatism / Sovereignty