Proportional Representation (PR) is supported by most Canadians, though some hesitate, fearing it legitimizes far-right extremist groups. Yet, this is precisely its strength. By allowing extremists to form their own parties, PR prevents them from hiding within mainstream “big tent” parties. It forces them into the open.
In Europe, where PR is widely used, far-right groups have gained traction on issues like immigration, but their influence is contained because they must collaborate with centrist and left-wing parties to enact change. PR mandates co-operation, reducing extremism’s impact.
Canada’s First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system, however, fosters voter apathy and cynicism. In Ontario’s 2025 election, only 45 per cent of eligible voters participated, resulting in the DNV (Did Not Vote) Party taking the win. Consequently, the majority government was formed by the party that gained just 23.3 per cent support from the electorate. In contrast, Germany’s recent PR election saw an 82.5 per cent turnout, as voters felt their votes truly mattered.
PR also promotes policy stability, avoiding the wild swings seen under FPTP. For example, Canada’s 2010s saw successive Conservative and Liberal governments bulldozing each other’s legislation. It is extremely expensive, inefficient, and polarizing governance. PR encourages collaboration, leading to more stable, long-term policies. Government can more easily move forward rather than back and forth.
Big parties tend to resist PR because they benefit from FPTP’s winner-takes-all approach, which allows them to take turns running the country. PR would create more parties and force them to work together, reducing the likelihood of majority governments. This helps to ensure the best ideas rise to the top.
In an era of rising polarization, PR is not just a better system, it’s a necessary one. Polls show most Canadians support PR, so MPs should act without delay. Canada deserves better than FPTP. Let’s get it done.
Margaret Raymond
Kaslo
