Alberta separation would send Canada into uncharted territory, say legal experts
- On May 8, 2025, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith introduced a bill lowering referendum thresholds amid renewed separatist discontent in Alberta.
- Smith's actions stem from a decade of federal Liberal policies perceived as hostile to Alberta's oil and gas sector, fueling demands tied to resource development.
- The bill lowers the threshold for petition signatures from 20 to 10 percent of eligible voters in the last election and extends the timeframe for gathering signatures, enabling the possibility of a referendum on separation.
- Constitutional experts warn provinces cannot unilaterally separate and a vote would trigger complex negotiations involving the federal government, First Nations, and disputed Crown lands.
- The situation risks escalating tensions with unresolved questions on economics, treaties, and governance, as Smith promises a two-track strategy to defend Alberta’s interests.
14 Articles
14 Articles
Majority of Canadians take Alberta separation more seriously than Quebec
Source: Wikimedia CommonsA national survey found that a majority of Canadians think the threat of Alberta separating from Canada should be taken seriously, with this sentiment strongest within Alberta itself.The Association for Canadian Studies released a poll that found 52 per cent of Canadians not only believe Alberta’s threats to leave the federation should be taken seriously but also feel that such a scenario is more likely than Quebec’s sep…
Alberta separation could send Canada into uncharted territory, say legal experts
As separatist discontent bubbles up anew in Alberta, experts say a vote to sever ties with Canada would pitch the country into unexplored territory on everything from money to First Nations and national parks.
Oh, Canada: Alberta is on native land
… province’s separation from Canada. But what that legislation … increasingly authoritarian U.S. President. For those not aware, … Canada’s constitutional origins. Following the conquest of New France … explaining Indigenous culture When Canada last went through a …
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